What cues promote stable pelvis and efficient leg work during the leg press or leg exercise sequences on the reformer?

• A. Engage deep abdominals, zip up the lower back, keep pelvis stable and symmetric; avoid pelvis rotation.
• B. Relax the abdomen, allow pelvis to rotate.
• C. Push through chest, relax the lower back.
• D. Lift the rib cage, exaggerate lumbar extension.

Answer: (A)

Stability of the pelvis during leg work on the reformer comes from preparing the core to support the spine and keeping the pelvis level so the legs can move in a controlled, efficient line. Engaging the deep abdominal muscles creates intra-abdominal support that helps hold the spine in a neutral position. Zipping up the lower back cues the lumbar region to stay connected and level, preventing tilting or twisting as the legs press or extend. When the pelvis stays stable and symmetric, the leg motion is driven from the hips and thighs with fewer compensations from the spine, so force transfers efficiently and the movement stays clean.

Relaxing the abdomen or letting the pelvis rotate, for example, invites unwanted spine and pelvic movement, reducing stability and efficiency. Pushing through the chest while relaxing the lower back shifts effort away from maintaining neutral alignment. Lifting the rib cage or exaggerating lumbar extension also disrupts neutral alignment and can strain the back, undermining stable pelvis and efficient leg work.