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Short Spine

Classical Repertoire Spinal ArticulationHip & Posterior Chain
roll over
Schematic — Short Spine

⚠️ Clinical Contraindications

  • Neck & Cervical Strain: The roll-over inversion loads the cervical spine; keep the head supported and skip if there is any neck compromise.

Apparatus Setup

Reformer

Spring Tension 1 Red or 1 Blue Spring
Footbar Position High
Gear Bar Normal
Stopper Normal
Headrest Down

Target Muscles

Transverse Abdominis (Primary)Hamstrings (Primary)Rectus Abdominis (Secondary)Erector Spinae (Secondary)

Setup Instructions

Lie supine on the carriage with feet in the long straps, legs extended toward the ceiling at about 90 degrees, arms by your sides, pelvis neutral.

Execution Instructions

Exhale to curl the hips off the carriage and roll the spine up and over until the feet draw toward the mat behind the head. Pause, then articulate back down one vertebra at a time with control.

Teaching Cues

Articulation

"Roll through the spine like a wave — ribs over hips over legs."

Control

"Keep the feet light in the straps — no yanking through the pulley."

Breath

"Exhale to roll up and over, inhale to articulate back down."

Modifications & Progressions

Bent Knees Roll Over (Regression)

Roll over with the knees softly bent to reduce hamstring tension and shorten the lever.

Extended Pause (Progression)

Hold the roll-over for two full breaths before articulating down.