May is a fine time to discuss shoulder sculpting  and hip widths but I'd rather discuss the secret of Pilates. Why does it work so well at re shaping, balancing And systematically strengthening your body?  I know you think I'm going to say its the springs but not this time- instead I want you to discover the methods secret weapon - the scoop!

What is it?  Simply put the scoop is an action that we train your abdominals to perform at the outset if each and every Pilates move.

What's it do?
A few things actually.  Constricting and tightening the waistline during core strengthening moves calls upon your deepest layer of muscles to join in the work and gets you more bang for your buck, recruiting muscles you could never utilize otherwise.  End result- a stronger and smaller waistline rather than a distended midsection.

So how do I get it?
Ah practice young grasshopper!
Try the following to get in touch with your inner scoop this month!  And post your questions or to our Facebook page - I want to know how you are doing!

Alignment - See your scoop- turn sideways to a mirror stand tall with good posture. Inhale fully and watch your waist expand.
now exhale to empty while pulling the abs in and up- stay tall!!  Repeat 6-8 cycles drawing in deeper and higher with each exhale.

Hands on - Feel your scoop
Repeat the above  with one hand on low belly and one hand on high belly.  Try to activate your inward scoop first and then your upward scoop.  You should feel the difference!_

Cueing - Communicate your scoop.
Perform the above and describe the feeling.  What words convey the sensation of abs moving in this way?

Once you've got your scoop technique down- you can never lose it.  It works with all kinds of exercise and helps improve sitting and standing posture.  Try it right this second and see for yourself!

See you at the studio! (Scooping of course)