Lesson 02
Breathing
Breathe wide, not up.
Video demo coming
In Pilates the breath is lateral: the ribcage expands sideways and backwards on the inhale, and knits down and in on the exhale. The shoulders stay quiet.
The exhale is where the deep abdominals naturally switch on. That is why almost every effort in the repertoire happens on an exhale.
The rule is simple: if you are holding your breath, the exercise is too hard right now.
Key takeaway
Inhale to widen the ribs. Exhale to connect the center.
Mini practice
Hands on your lower ribs. Inhale for three, exhale for five. Repeat eight times.
Lateral Breathing