Tightening the imaginary belt…

Just going through the feed back from a recent questionnaire that I sent out in preparation for the Autumn Term lesson plans. One question that popped up was- what is mean’t by the imaginary belt image that I use during the set up section at the start of each session. I’m really pleased that this was raised as it high lighted to me that I hadn’t re visited this area for a long time! This being due to the majority of my Subscribers being long term clients and aware of this phrase.

Many clients struggle with the "navel to spine" cue because they try to suck their stomach in too hard or hold their breath. In my training, we were taught to use the belt image, this helps clients visualise and feel through progression of tightening the belt the level of core engagement needed for each exhale when completing each movement sequence.

"Imagine you're wearing a belt around your waist. If the belt has 10 holes, I only want you to tighten it by 2 or 3 holes—not all the way. It's a gentle drawing in around your middle, not a hard brace.”

Some teachers use the jean image, which is a great one too!

"Think of gently zipping up a pair of jeans that fit well. There's a slight drawing in through your tummy, but you're not holding your breath or trying to make your waist as small as possible."

Over the next month, I will add a section to my APP to further explain key pointers for new clients to Mypilatesflow.