Refining movement into precise steps requires considerable control and skill. \u00a0“Small is good” and “big and sloppy” is just that, big, sloppy and usually a mess.<\/p>\n
When something is new, it’s exciting, exhilarating and most of us tend to seize the moment, maybe\u00a0try to swallow the whole scoop all at once. \u00a0Our intent is to “make it happen” “conquer the hill” “throw ourselves completely into it.” \u00a0However, like eating ice cream, when you swallow\u00a0a whole, large scoop of ice cream, you probably end up with quick, brain freeze feedback<\/em> that, “a small taste was better.”<\/p>\n The same applies to Pilates movement and mastering the precise movements of the method.<\/p>\n Learning to master, for example, the Roll Up and Teaser, is a good way to apply this principle. \u00a0I think these are two of the most challenging exercises for new students of Pilates. \u00a0 Many try\u00a0to master the movement by “throwing yourself up” or “whipping forward” in what usually is a failing attempt to get through the exercise. \u00a0God forbid there is another student in the room that does it more smoothly, then the brain freeze frustration sets in and we throw harder.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, it’s not the best approach to the exercise. \u00a0Learning to make small, distinct and precise powerhouse\u00a0connections through the spine and throughout the movement\u00a0is the work of the exercise. \u00a0Control. Approaching the Roll Up, the Teaser and all Pilates movements with slow, controlled point-by-point steps will minimize\u00a0the frustrating “brain freeze” ( not to mention, the teacher’s side eye) in execution. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n