Yoga
Yoga Exercises
Free Ab Exercises
Free Ab Exercises
The Pilates system of exercising is one which dwells a lot on building the strength and flexibility of the body. The aim of Pilates exercises is not to build bulk, but to control the movements of the body in a manner so that they increase the stability of the body. The Pilates form of exercise utilizes several specially designed equipments.
With the help of Pilates, the body can be...
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...conditioned into becoming more flexible. The exercise routine of Pilates also helps in lengthening the muscles and making them less prone to injuries. The biggest advantage of Pilates is that it can be performed by anyone.
There are free Pilates classes that you can join to understand the movements in a Pilates workout. You can also find free Pilates videos to understand the techniques of a Pilates workout. Yoga too, can help you achieve similar end objectives. Therefore, you can also choose between free yoga exercises and Pilates workouts.
Here are some Pilates workout exercises which can help you tone and strengthen your body.
Overhead Leg Handstand
To start off, lie down with your face up and then raise both your legs up to an angle of 45 degrees. Slowly bend your body so that your legs reach behind your head. Stabilize your body with both your hands and arms. Slowly swing your legs, bringing them to the middle and extend the lower part of your body so that your body becomes completely straight.
Roll Out Back Stretch
A great stretching exercise, the roll out back stretch is started in a ball position. Both your arms should be on the ground and the knees should be very close to your chest. Slowly begin to extend your body so that you are completely flat on the ground. After you have completely stretched your back, come back into the ball position.
One Leg Raises
One of the best free ab exercises that works both your lower abdomen and your thighs, this exercise is performed either while lying flat on your back or by standing straight. For beginners, lying on the back is easier. As you progress in your routine, you can practice this while standing too.
While lying on your back, raise one leg high in the air, bringing it to a ninety degree angle against your body. Let the leg remain raised for a few seconds before slowly bringing it back to the ground, without touching the floor. Adding a small alteration in this exercise can make it one of the most effective free Pilates reformer exercises. When you are raising your leg, you can also move the leg around in a circle. This helps strengthen your obliques too.