Jack Knife and Control Balance are two very challenging Pilates Mat Intermediate/Advanced exercises that we love to hate. Doing them on the mat is tough stuff and a huge challenge mentally and physicially for most of us. So why is it, doing these same challenging moves – with the TRX – are two of the studio’s “hands down” favorite moves?
My thought is that they are so exhilarating and empowering. They are gravity-defying exercises that make us feel great having finished it. Defying gravity is never for the faint of heart.
Caroline and Cynthia were in an early morning class more than a year ago and captured perfectly executing the Jack Knife with full engagement of their powerhouse core, attentive focus and graceful suspension.
Typically, I transition from this move to a TRX Teaser in a slow-controlled movement being sure that no one uses momentum to initiate the movement.
After 3 repetitions of both moves, we want a much needed, well-deserved pause and break. Phew!
While it looks similar, as yes, it is also an overhead exercise (and not for the beginner student), the powerhouse core remains the driver and the arms are still suspended with the straps. It reminds me of the advanced mat exercise, as the lift of the hips over the shoulders, its control, concentration and active resistance in TWO directions (reaching up and reaching back of the legs) feels like Control Balance. The difference, of course, is we don’t let go of the TRX straps.
While all my TRX students tackle the first step, the strongest students, like Alina and Vernell, shown below, make it look like a graceful, easy flowing dance. A controlled balance in the air.
We love this one.
Gina Jackson, is a classically trained Pilates Teacher and has been teaching along the Gold Coast of Hudson and Bergen County, NJ for the past fifteen+ years.
Certified by Power Pilates of New York, Gina has trained with Master Teachers Bob Liekens, Susan Moran and Brett Howard; loved workshop training with Cary Regan and Blossom Leilani-Crawford and has particularly enjoyed listening to the personal stories as told by Pilates Elders, Kathy Grant and Lolita San Miguel.
An active teacher and blogger, Gina manages a private personal training business supporting a myriad of clients, teaching all to honor their health, strength and life with the principles of Pilates at its core.