How do you cue upper body alignment to support thoracic spine mobility on the reformer?

• A. Tense the shoulder girdle and retract the ribs tightly.
• B. Shrug the shoulders toward the ears.
• C. Keep the chest collapsed and spine rounded.
• D. Keep shoulders broad but relaxed, clavicles wide, ribcage connected to pelvis, and maintain a tall spine with a lengthened upper back to support thoracic mobility.

Answer: (D)

Focusing on a stable, lifted, and spacious upper body creates an unobstructed pathway for the thoracic spine to move on the reformer. The best cueing keeps shoulders broad but relaxed, with the clavicles wide, so the shoulder girdle sits gently without tensing. Keeping the ribcage connected to the pelvis anchors the upper body to the lower trunk, preventing rib flare or pelvic misalignment that can block thoracic motion. A tall spine with a lengthened upper back adds space for the thoracic spine to extend and flex, supporting smoother, more controlled mobility.

This setup contrasts with other approaches: tensing the shoulder girdle and retracting the ribs tightly locks the ribcage and limits expansion; shrugging the shoulders or letting the chest collapse and the spine round reduces thoracic space and hinder mobility. The chosen alignment promotes balanced support and smooth thoracic movement throughout reformer work.