What does neutral spine mean on the reformer, and what two cues help maintain it during rolling movements such as leg circles or short spine?

• A. Neutral spine is flat; cues: chin to chest and shoulders down.
• B. Neutral spine maintains natural curves; cues tailbone lengthen toward carriage and ribcage knit.
• C. Neutral spine requires posterior tilt; cues: pelvis rotate and breath hold.
• D. Neutral spine is exaggerated extension; cues: chest lift and back bend.

Answer: (D)

Neutral spine on the reformer means keeping the spine in its natural curves and the pelvis in a stable, neutral position as you move, rather than flattening the back or excessively arching it. When you roll, the spine should move with control while the pelvis remains balanced and connected to the ribcage.

Two cues that help maintain this position during movements like leg circles or Short Spine are: first, lengthen the tailbone toward the carriage. This helps prevent the pelvis from tucking too much and keeps the lower back softly curved rather than flattened. second, knit the ribcage—think drawing the ribs toward the hips. This stabilizes the upper body, supports the natural spinal curves, and prevents rib flare or excessive extension.

In short, neutral spine is about preserving natural curves and pelvic stability; the tailbone lengthening toward the carriage and the ribcage knitting are the two cues that keep that alignment during rolling movements.