Don’t you love it when an exercise has “stretch” in the name? It gives us all the fuzzy feels… until we realize that it’s not THAT kind of stretch, of course. This one is no exception to this unspoken “rule” in Pilates: this month, we’re looking at the Thigh Stretch with the Neck Stretcher.
As per usual, the Thigh Stretch is not exclusive to one environment: the same exercise is famously performed on the Reformer, on the Cadillac with the Roll Back Bar, and the Mat. But, we chose the Neck Stretcher variant because it beautifully represents another unspoken “rule” of Pilates: just because the exercise has “thigh” in the name… doesn’t mean we’re working the body in parts.
What it is
Kneel on the Cadillac facing the springs.
Hold—but don’t pull—the Neck Stretcher in place with your hands.
Recline from head to knees.
“Enjoy” the “stretch”.
What it does
In our definition, the Thigh Stretch with the Neck Stretcher builds strength in the upper and central body, stretches the spine, and tractions and realigns the neck. The challenge is to maintain an active lift in the spine and to keep the head retracted into the Neck Stretcher.
What do you make of this exercise?
PS: If you’re on Instagram and want to share your #thighstretch with us, please tag us: @360pilatesonline