Using props to activate the upper quadrant and eliminate neck strain The Chest Lift (similar to a crunch or sit-up) is one of the most foundational movements in Pilates — and one that shows up in countless abdominal exercises including the Single Leg Stretch, Double Leg Stretch, and Criss Cross. Yet for many people, lifting the head and chest off the mat quickly creates neck tension instead of abdominal activation. This month’s focus isn’t simply about reducing neck strain.

Strength, balance, and their critical role in knee health This month’s  Muscle of the Month  is the  quadriceps  — a powerful and often misunderstood muscle group. The quads tend to get a bad reputation, especially in athletic populations, because they’re often  overtrained . But the truth is more nuanced:👉  Strong quads aren’t the problem — imbalanced legs are. Let’s break down the anatomy, function, and why quad strength is both  essential  and  sometimes excessive , depen

Three ways to build powerful, functional glutes — Mat · Reformer · Cadillac This month we’re diving into a functional hip-strengthening pattern in the Pilates for Rehabilitation repertoire: the Glute Press . I’m especially excited to feature this exercise because all three variations appear in my newly released book, Pilates for Rehabilitation, 2nd Edition — which includes updated research, new chapters, and more than 100 additional exercises. 🎥 WATCH THE VIDEO Ready to