By Kathleen Simpson, our Pilates Instructor
Join Core Link Mat Classes to learn more : Monday 7:30pm – Friday 9:30 am
Beginner Leg Extension : This exercise will help develop strong abdominals as well as build quadriceps without hurting the neck!
Lay flat on the floor in neutral spine, ensure you pull up on your pelvic floor and hold your abdominals tight in the front. Bring your legs up in tabletop while you exhale. Inhale to prepare, on your next exhale extend one leg at a time out straight and bring it back.
Repeat this with the each of your legs during the exhale so you can connect your abdominals better. At no time should you have lower back pain. This means your abdominals are not connected or you have arched your back. The back of your ribs should be well connected to the floor at all times. Do not use your neck, shoulders or arms to hold you while you extend your leg. This works the abdominals as well as your quadriceps muscles in your legs.
When you can do each leg easily, progress to both legs at the same time. This will develop strong abdominals as well as build quadriceps without hurting your neck.
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