How to Do Single Leg Stretch Pilates Exercise

The Single Leg Stretch Pilates exercise elongates your torso and tones your lower abdominal muscles. Follow these steps to do the exercise, using the exercise ball for a more advanced workout.

Instructions

1. Lie face up on your exercise mat. Assume a neutral spine position with your abdominal muscles engaged and your back pressed firmly against the floor. Pull your legs into your body with the exercise ball positioned over the top of them.

2. Pull your abs in. Lift your head and shoulders up off the floor. Keep your abdominals engaged and your shoulders relaxed throughout the entire exercise.

3. Keep your right leg in close to your body and stretch your left leg out as far as you can reach, keeping it only a few inches off the floor. Hold the exercise ball over your left leg with your arms just below 45 degrees.

4. Switch legs and perform the exercise again. Pull your left leg into your body and place the exercise ball over your right leg.

5. Repeat the exercise 10 times for each leg.

Tips & Warnings

• Focus on your sequential breathing as you perform this exercise to get the full benefit of the movement and stretch.

• Don't perform any exercise program without the consent of your doctor.