Which cue supports spinal stability during reformer arm work?

• A. Drop the spine into lumbar flexion.
• B. Keep ribcage knitted and shoulders down away from ears.
• C. Let ribcage flare.
• D. Shoulders shrugged, chest lifted, jaw clenched.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining spinal stability during reformer arm work comes from keeping the thorax controlled and the shoulder girdle settled so the spine can stay in a neutral position as the arms move. Keeping the ribcage knitted prevents rib flare and excessive thoracic movement, which helps the deep stabilizers brace the spine without inviting unwanted lumbar motion. Dropping the spine into lumbar flexion would invite misalignment and strain the lower back as the arms move. Letting the ribcage flare opens the chest but destabilizes the thorax, encouraging compensations in the upper spine. Shoulders shrugged and the jaw clenched create unnecessary tension and neck strain, pulling the shoulder blades out of a stable position and disrupting coordinated, controlled arm work. The cue to keep the ribcage knitted and shoulders down away from the ears supports a steady, aligned spine and efficient arm movement.