As the holiday season fills our days with both joy and busyness, it’s the perfect time to prioritize balance — both in life and in movement. This December, we’re excited to feature the Shoulder Bridge on the Stability Chair™, a Pilates exercise that fosters mindfulness and supports your well-being during this festive time of year.
Presented by Jackie Gallant, Merrithew® Lead Instructor Trainer and physiotherapist, this exploration of the Shoulder Bridge on the Stability Chair draws from her rich background in orthopedics, sports medicine and post-surgery recovery. Whether you’re helping clients recover, improve functional strength or close out the year feeling revitalized, the Shoulder Bridge on the Stability Chair offers a way to provide immediate feedback, helping to ensure stability and prevent wobbling in the hips or pelvis.
Key benefits of the Shoulder Bridge exercise
- Improved core stability:
Strengthens the deep abdominal muscles and pelvic floor, crucial for spinal support and balance.
- Enhanced lumbo-pelvic stability:
Promotes stability in the lumbar spine and pelvic region while maintaining proper alignment.
- Strengthens the lower body:
Targets the gluteal muscles, hamstrings and hip flexors, enhancing functional lower-body strength.
- Adaptable for various needs:
Beneficial for individuals managing weight distribution challenges or working on pelvic alignment.
Pro tips for optimal execution
- Focus on precision: Concentrate on smooth, controlled movements to avoid compensatory patterns. Pay close attention to pelvic alignment throughout the exercise.
- Engage the core: Maintain a strong core connection to ensure spinal stability and avoid overloading the lower back.
- Use the Stability Chair effectively: Leverage the split-pedal feature to isolate movements and progressively challenge stability.
- Modify for progression: Gradually increase resistance, range of motion or incorporate arm lifts to suit the client's fitness or rehabilitation level.
This versatile exercise is ideal for both physiotherapy settings and general Pilates practice. Whether you're looking to support clients recovering from injuries, improve functional strength or challenge coordination, the Shoulder Bridge is a valuable addition to any routine.
Explore this exercise and more on Merrithew Connect™, our digital streaming platform for Pilates professionals and enthusiasts!
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