This yoga-and Pilates-inspired exercise firms and tightens the mid-section (abdominals and lower back), shoulders and hips..
Equipment
Exercise Mat
Exercise technique
1. Lie sideways with your elbow directly under your shoulder joint. Your bottom leg should be bent and your top leg straight.
2. Push your body upwards so your full body weight is balanced between your elbow, knee and foot. Raise your other arm toward the ceiling.
3. Lift your leg to hip level.
4. Lower the leg down to the mat.
Performance tips
1. Do not allow yourself to sink into your elbow. Lengthen your entire upper body diagonally away from the floor.
2. Keep your shoulders relaxed by pressing them gently away from your ears.
Repetitions
If you do the exercise yoga-style, hold the position for three to five breaths. One breath means inhaling and exhaling. Make sure that your inhalation and exhalation are consistent in length and depth.
If you do the exercise Pilates-style, lift and lower your leg for five to 10 repetitions on each side. Exhale as you lift the leg, inhale as you lower it.