Build a strong upper body with Mat Pilates; focusing on building heat to release toxin

This week’s Mat Pilates video workout is dedicated to cultivating a strong upper body and improving chest mobility.

Today’s session focuses on opening the chest muscles, facilitating easier breathing, and strengthening the upper back muscles, including the upper and middle traps and the smaller muscles beneath.

Starting with the spine corrector, we are going to release tension in the chest muscles. Whether you have a spine corrector or prefer a bolster or small cushions, the aim is to alleviate neck tension from prolonged desk work and enhance upper body mobility.

After a 4-minute release, we transition into flowing movements, emphasising breath work to generate warmth and ease of movement with an open chest.

Throughout the session, we prioritise mindful movement to prevent grinding of the shoulder joints, a standard unconscious action during arm rotation.

Be sure not to overlook the saw exercise, where I demonstrate techniques to move gracefully without straining the shoulder joints, which will also help you with the Pull strap and T exercise from the intermediate level repertoire. 💪🏼👀 👇

Equipment: Reformer and Tower 

Pilates Exercise: Pull Strap and T 

Tips and techniques: The key to this exercise is inhale as much air as you can inside your lungs as you lift your chest muscles up 

Alignment: When done on the Tower you need to make use that adjust the spring resistance to your strength and get the right distance from the poles. 

As you progress through the exercises, notice how they gradually become more manageable as your chest muscles strengthen.

Join me on your mat as we work towards a stronger, more mobile upper body. We’ll explore advanced techniques to elevate your practice and achieve greater strength and flexibility.

Xo 

 Jeanique

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