Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on building core strength and stability.
Here are some Pilates exercises to help you strengthen your core:
The Hundred
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and extend your arms. Pump your arms up and down while keeping your core engaged.
Roll Up
Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms overhead. Slowly roll up, one vertebrae at a time, until you are sitting up straight. Then, slowly roll back down to the starting position.
Single Leg Stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and extend your right leg. Bring your left knee towards your chest and place your right hand on your ankle and your left hand on your knee. Switch legs and repeat.
Double Leg Stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and bring your knees towards your chest. Extend your arms and legs outwards at a 45-degree angle. Bring your arms and legs back in towards your chest and repeat.
Criss Cross
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and bring your hands behind your head. Bring your right elbow towards your left knee while extending your right leg out. Switch sides and repeat.
Plank
Start in a push-up position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your feet hip-width apart. Keep your core engaged and hold for 30 seconds.
Side Plank
Start in a plank position and roll onto your right side. Stack your left foot on top of your right and lift your left arm up towards the ceiling. Hold for 30 seconds and switch sides.