Strengthen Your Body and Mind: A Guide to Reform Pilates Home Exercise – The Reform Recovery Collective index

In today's fast-paced world, we often find ourselves looking for effective ways to improve both our physical fitness and mental well-being. Reform Pilates has become a popular form of exercise as brands such as Alo & Lululemon have changed the fitness scene forever. Reform Pilates offers a holistic approach to achieving a balanced body and mind and incorporating Reform Pilates into your home workout routine can unlock numerous benefits.

The Hundred:
The Hundred is a fundamental exercise in reform Pilates that focuses on core strengthening and controlled breathing. Start by lying on your back with your legs raised in a tabletop position. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground while extending your arms by your sides. Begin pumping your arms up and down while inhaling for five counts and exhaling for five counts. Repeat this cycle ten times, aiming to maintain a strong engagement of your core throughout the exercise.

Roll-Ups:
Roll-ups target your abdominal muscles, promoting flexibility and spinal mobility. Begin by lying flat on your back with your arms extended above your head. Slowly lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground while simultaneously reaching your hands towards your toes. Continue rolling forward, reaching for your toes while keeping your core engaged. Slowly roll back down to the starting position, one vertebra at a time. Repeat this exercise for 8-10 repetitions, focusing on keeping your movements controlled and fluid.

Double-Leg Stretch:
The Double-Leg Stretch engages your core muscles, including your deep abdominal muscles, to build overall body strength and stability. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent towards your chest. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and extend your arms straight above your head. Simultaneously extend your legs straight out in front of you while reaching your arms back alongside your ears. Return to the starting position by bending your knees and bringing your arms back to your shins. Aim for 10-12 repetitions, maintaining a strong core connection throughout the exercise.

Side Planks:
Side planks work your oblique muscles, promoting core stability and balance. Begin by lying on your side, propping yourself up on your forearm, with your elbow directly beneath your shoulder. Stack your feet on top of each other, keeping your body in a straight line from head to toe. Lift your hips off the ground, engaging your core, and hold the position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Switch sides and repeat the exercise. For an added challenge, try lifting your top leg while maintaining the side plank position.

Reform Pilates offers a fantastic way to improve your overall fitness, strength, and flexibility from the comfort of your own home. By incorporating exercises like The Hundred, Roll-Ups, Double-Leg Stretch, and Side Planks into your routine, you can enhance your physical well-being while also enjoying the mental benefits of increased mindfulness and body awareness. Remember to always listen to your body and work within your capabilities, gradually progressing as you become more comfortable with the exercises. 
Visit the Reform Recovery Collective to explore more enlightening content and resources that align with your journey towards optimal health.