In an ideal posture the ribcage should be positioned over the pelvis. People are prone to flaring the ribcage forwards which can tighten the muscles at the back leading to stiffness or discomfort.

Try the following exercise to become aware of the position of your ribcage:

Lie on your back with the hips and knees […]

You will often hear pilates teachers referring to the ‘centre’ or the ‘core’. In reality this consists of three postural muscles that should work together to form a natural girdle of support around the low back, abdomen and pelvic floor. If this system is failing then we are more prone to low back pain.

Research […]

Many of us do not use our full lung capacity and deny ourselves the benefits of correct breathing. The aim in Pilates is to improve the mechanics and the depth of breathing, which is essential to oxygenate the blood and remove waste products. When we inhale the lower rib cage should expand upwards and outwards […]