“You have to learn how to tense your muscles if you want to really know how to relax” -Joseph Pilates, 1963
Joseph Pilates words of wisdom from almost 60 years ago still hold the answers to our questions today. The key to fully executing the Back Bend from start to finish is practicing the balance and timing of tensing and relaxation, with spinal flexion and extension. The Back Bend can be done with the footbar up or down.
Scorpion is a very challenging exercise of dynamic flow. The Gratz ladder barrel offers the perfect dimensions that make this exercise most achievable. Ideally, preparation for Scorpion takes place on the Spine Corrector, Cadillac, Guillotine, and progressions on the ladder barrel. Scorpion is also done on the reformer.