Introducing a new workout series with the yogi and dance queen…
You may recognize Danielle from her “wellness-inspiration-runneth-over” Instagram account, @yellabella. Today we share the first in a three-part series featuring Danielle as she shares her favorite mat Pilates moves, beginning with how to build long, lean and strong legs. “I love mat Pilates because the mat has become my safe haven and, secondly, I really love using my body weight to build strong, lean muscles,” notes Danielle. “Lean power house legs is the number one reason why I do these workouts daily! Not only do they build strength and lean muscle, you are also working your flexibility at the same time — win/win! Think of your workout as an hour of giving thanks to your body, a gift to yourself. And try your hardest to stay consistent. Consistency = change.”
Kick and Press
Start by lying on your side with your legs slightly in front of your hips. Kick your right leg up to the ceiling, keeping the leg straight and the toes pointed. Lower it back down, flexing the foot. Make sure to keep the hips steady and your core tight the entire time. 8-10 reps each leg.
Seated Leg Lifts
Begin sitting with both legs directly out in front of you and hands at your sides. Roll your shoulders back and down and keep chest lifted. Try to maintain a straight spine and don’t lean back as you lift your leg. Raise your leg up about a foot and lower back to the ground. Engage those quads and you should feel it right away. 8-10 reps each side.
Straddle Criss Cross
Begin laying flat on your back, legs straight up, crossing one leg in front. Now open the legs as wide as possible with toes pointed. Bring legs up again with flexed feet, keeping the lower back glued to the mat. Try doing 20 of these!
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+ Stay tuned next week for Danielle’s core Pilates mat routine!
Follow Danielle on Instagram and snapchat @yella.bella
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I always see my Mum doing these exercises – I never knew they were categorised as pilates. They seem achievable for an exercise newbie like me.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com