Pilates is associated with details and precision but no where are those elements more apparent than in the grand sweeping movements of the Mat. Take our move of month the front kicks and consider the details. The beginner student may simply elevate the leg from a low level to a high level and be content to call it done. But the teacher's role is to refine this movement to accomplish more than just a simple leg raise. Below are a few of my suggestions for mastering this move along with a video to practice along with.
Alignment
Take a test drive by practicing against a wall. Precision is simply a balance of stability and mobility. Keep your body from head to hips firmly against the wall and practice pulling the top hip back so it stays in contact with the wall as you kick front. Use the back kick to practice an isometric glute contraction.
Hands On
Try this: While at the wall, place your free hand on your top hip. Let your fingers fall into the crease of your hip as you kick front. Try to squeeze your fingers into the crease by pulling your hip backward (not by kicking higher). You should feel your pelvis retract into the wall behind you.
Communication
Try the following cues or commands when working through this move. "Lock" your upper body in place. "Freely swing" the leg. Use consistent rhythmical timing. Messages to your muscles may also be sent via mental images so imagine that your leg is actually a spring - uncoiling as it sweeps forward and then again as it sweeps back. The lengthening action of your muscles should directly mimic the Pilates springs.
Precision is easier said than done in all exercise. But the payoff is tremendous when you finally master one little detail you've struggled with. And this is precisely why Pilates is truly sustainable exercise. No matter how long you do it - it just keeps getting better!
Read on....
- Alycea
More exciting stuff you can't wait to read about including Move of the Month video, and more!
Move of the Month - Front Kick
As mentioned above, check out Bridget demonstrating our Move of the Month for June, Front Kick.
Front Kick with Bridget Casey-Insana
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"With body, mind, and spirit functioning perfectly as a coordinated whole, what else could reasonably be expected other than an active, alert, disciplined person."
- Joseph Pilates, Return to Life Through Contrology
