Stomach Massage: Round Back

Classical Repertoire Beginner Seated Core Integration

Mid-back articulation, pelvic stability, and lower extremity coordination exercise sitting on the carriage.

Schematic — Stomach Massage: Round Back Reformer · 2-3 strong springs · Footbar High · Headrest Down

Teaching Precautions

Common precautions, not exhaustive. Screen every client and refer when in doubt.

Osteoporosis / Osteopenia: Avoid loaded spinal flexion. Substitute with neutral spine variations.

Spring Tension 2-3 strong springs

Headrest Down

Transverse Abdominis (Secondary)Quadriceps (Primary)Rectus Abdominis (Secondary)Hip Flexors (Secondary)Calves (Gastrocnemius/Soleus) (Secondary)

Sit facing the front of the reformer with feet on the footbar in V-position, heels lower than toes, hands holding edge of carriage.

Exhale to press the carriage out smoothly with the heels glued to the footbar and the spine flexed in a rounded shape; inhale to articulate home.

Articulation

"Scoop your belly button deeply away from your thighs as you press out."

Alignment

"Keep the heels glued to the footbar and the toes softly turned out."

Breath

"Exhale to press out, inhale to draw the carriage home."

Add spring weight so the carriage assists the return and the spine is more supported.

Reach the arms forward through the press-out, keeping the back rounded, to add trunk endurance.

With low bone density, sit tall with the spine long rather than rounded, keep both hands on the carriage for support and shorten the press-out.

The rest of the Stomach Massage family.