The Pilates Spine Corrector is a uniquely designed and versatile piece of equipment. It offers an effective way of learning to move correctly in Pilates while achieving long-term strength and stability. Whether you are a beginner or experienced with Pilates, using the corrector will help target deep postural muscles that may not be emphasized in regular exercises. Additionally, because it allows for proper alignment and a full range of motion movements – both basic and advanced – the spine corrector is an excellent tool for transforming posture and improving flexibility throughout your entire body.

What does a Spine Corrector do?

The spine corrector is a small piece of Pilates equipment that can improve spinal mobility while strengthening the torso, shoulders, core and legs. Common postural complications from excessive sitting may result in kyphosis. Kyphosis is when the spine curves or rounds forward, resulting in a slouched position leading to shoulder or back pain, muscular atrophy and impaired digestion.

Several exercises and stretches on the spine corrector can help reverse this, opening the shoulders, chest and abdominal wall. Additionally, the spine corrector can help support the body throughout various Pilates mat exercises.

How do you use a spine corrector?

A Pilates spine corrector is suited for the mat, reformer or trapeze table. As with all Pilates apparatus, working with a trained Pilates professional will help maximize your results with the spine corrector and reduce the chance of injury.

Several traditional Pilates mat exercises are adaptable for the spine corrector. Therefore, it is best to learn the movement on the mat first. Then, depending on the exercise, the spine corrector may assist or challenge you.

For example, Bicycle is an advanced Pilates mat exercise. The hands support the lower back while the torso, hips lift and legs cycle upwards. Therefore, Bicycle requires ample strength in the shoulders, arms, core, hips and legs.

Using the spine corrector during Bicycle supports the hips as they press against it while the hands take hold of handles on the side of the spine corrector. The spine corrector provides support and stability, allowing you to focus more on the movement of the legs and engaging core muscles.

Conversely, the spine corrector’s diverse use can make mat exercises more challenging. For example, executing extension exercises like Swan or Swimming on the peak of the semicircle calls for more excellent balance and strength.

Does Pilates help with spine alignment?

Yes, Pilates can help improve spinal alignment. The method’s foundation is core strength and flexibility, grounded in healthy alignment. Pilates method founder Joseph Pilates once said, “You’re only as young as your spine is flexible.”

Equal parts strength and flexibility are essential to spinal health and longevity. Pilates exercises accentuate spinal articulation, which is often omitted during traditional exercise. Articulation requires moving through each vertebra at a time. Additionally, a well-rounded Pilates workout will include flexion, extension and rotation of the spine.

For example, a common Pilates mat exercise is Roll-Up. Roll-Up is an excellent exercise focusing on peeling each vertebra off and back onto the mat. This exercise in articulation, coupled with core activation, creates length and space in the spine.

Another Pilates mat exercise, Saw, includes rotation to both sides and flexion. Lastly, extension exercises like swan and swimming create a balanced workout for spinal alignment.

How long does it take to correct posture with Pilates?

That answer depends on the current condition of your spine and overall health and how often you practice Pilates. For example, someone with severe scoliosis who practices Pilates once a week may take longer to improve their posture than someone with no special spinal conditions and practices three times a week.

Keep in mind that some Pilates is better than no Pilates. However, finding a sustainable, long-term and enjoyable routine will undoubtedly create long-lasting results and an improved quality of life.
If you want to try the Spine Corrector and live in the Peachtree City, GA area, visit ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates. To schedule a Pilates class in person or virtually, book online at /schedule/.