
The Pilates Arc is based on the Step Barrel or Spine Corrector designed by Joseph Pilates to increase the strength of the core and the flexibility of the spine. The Pilates Arc is a lightweight, portable, and inexpensive version of the original Step Barrel making the exercises available to more people. The Arc can add variety to Pilates mat classes, be used on the Allegro reformer to assist with positioning, and aid in a variety of stretches. I recently attended a course in Chicago where I learned a variety of challenging core moves on the Arc. We filled the entire 7 hours with exercises and would have benefited from additional time. Much like using the exercise ball, BOSU, or the foam roller the Arc can be used for proprioceptive input (massage), balance work, core training, and general enhancement of neuromuscular coordination. By implementing the principles of Pilates any move can be elevated from the superficial to intense. Olympic swimmer Natalie Coughlin is a spokesperson for Balanced Body and the Arc. Her experience can be seen at the Balanced Body website, www.balancedbody.com.
My friend Tonnie (or Tactical Tonnie on Youtube--check her out!) took a few pictures of me in the studio for an upcoming silent auction. The auction supports the West Bend Dance and Tumbling Troupe (4/30 Wa. County Fair Grounds) and one of the products up for bid is a reformer training session. While she was at Home Training, I enlisted her service for a few impromptu pictures of Arc and reformer exercises. The pictures are limited and do not nearly portray the wide array of exercises available on the equipment. Perhaps in the future I will do a more complete "photo shoot" to demonstrate the full variety the Arc can offer. As is true of Pilates, the exercises often appear easy but require concentration and strength. I look forward to utilizing the Arc with all my clients.
When the Arc is taken apart from its step or "well" (not pictured) it may be flipped over to provide a challenging rocking position for planks, push-ups, and standing balance work.
My friend Tonnie (or Tactical Tonnie on Youtube--check her out!) took a few pictures of me in the studio for an upcoming silent auction. The auction supports the West Bend Dance and Tumbling Troupe (4/30 Wa. County Fair Grounds) and one of the products up for bid is a reformer training session. While she was at Home Training, I enlisted her service for a few impromptu pictures of Arc and reformer exercises. The pictures are limited and do not nearly portray the wide array of exercises available on the equipment. Perhaps in the future I will do a more complete "photo shoot" to demonstrate the full variety the Arc can offer. As is true of Pilates, the exercises often appear easy but require concentration and strength. I look forward to utilizing the Arc with all my clients.
When the Arc is taken apart from its step or "well" (not pictured) it may be flipped over to provide a challenging rocking position for planks, push-ups, and standing balance work.

Side Stretch
The side leg series, oblique crunches, and side stretches can all be performed using the Arc. It provides interesting variations to all of the side-lying exercises.
The side leg series, oblique crunches, and side stretches can all be performed using the Arc. It provides interesting variations to all of the side-lying exercises.

The Arm Series in Kneeling on the reformer provides a variety of methods to strengthen the upper body while creating a core balance challenge. This particular exercise is called "salute."

A basic Half-Roll Down with Oblique Twist. This movement can be developed to a full roll-down where the entire torso is supported by the Arc providing core strength, spinal flexibility, and an amazing stretch.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. It is always a privilege to share my experiences with you. Have a safe, fun, and healthy weekend.