SPINE CORRECTOR

I am always surprised when I visit a new studio that is fully equipped with the latest Pilates apparatus but does not have any Spine Correctors. I am also rather shocked when I have been invited to teach a Spine Corrector class, only to discover that I am teaching
on BOSU’s or Fit Balls. While this other exercise equipment has its own purpose, it is not a substitute for the Spine Corrector. The Spine Corrector – now commonly referred to as the Step Barrel or Small Barrel – was designed by Joseph Pilates along with a
complete repertoire of exercises to be performed on it. There are blueprints for this ingenious invention and photos of Mr. Pilates performing exercises on it in the archival material, dated 1945.

There were originally two designs that varied slightly in width and length. One version, referred to as the East Coast Spine Corrector, was slightly narrower but about two inches longer than the other. The other version is referred to as the West Coast Spine Corrector. (I do not know why it is called the West Coast Spine Corrector since, to my knowledge, Mr. Pilates never taught on the West Coast.) The main difference between the two Spine Correctors is that the East Coast version has a gentler arch (which is why it is longer) while the West Coast has a deeper seat for more lumbar support. Both versions have equal advantages and a full line of exercises for the whole body. I work on both depending on the body I am teaching and the emphasis of the exercises I am teaching.

Today, you will find many variations in size, construction and materials, but I believe maintaining the integrity closest to the original dimensions works best. Spine Correctors are easily available through any Pilates equipment company as well as many websites.  Because they are smaller and portable, they make a great addition to any studio and because they are more affordable, they can be used as a transition from mat class to the larger pieces of Pilates equipment.




My experience with the Spine Corrector is a very personal one. Starting my Pilates training with scoliosis, large portions of my sessions were done on the Spine Corrector. This work pointed out my own imbalances and how deeply I needed to work to create my
own core alignment. I could “cheat” quite well on the Reformer and Cadillac since I would allow the equipment to aid my misalignments, but the Spine Corrector was not as kind. I learned quickly that I needed to work with control and precision in order to complete the movements and I realized that if I were to correct my imbalances, the Spine Corrector would be the best program for me.

The Spine Corrector programming addresses spinal imbalances from functional to structural and is a terrific tool to help assess core misalignments. Since the Spine Corrector provides the essential support to maximize dimensional rotation of the spine, your clients will begin to feel the difference in their symmetry and can correct imbalances using the feedback from their own bodies. Flexion, extension, side bending and rotational movements are incorporated with breath work to correctly balance core movements. Working with the Spine Corrector creates an understanding of dynamic alignment and asymmetrical patterning to functionally re-train core and spinal muscles through its varied ranges of motion.

Spine Corrector classes are wonderful for energetic bodies. Balancing rotational patterns with extension movements and variations of the classic matwork like the Boomerang, the Side Leg Series and the Butterfly, challenge even your most advanced students. As a teacher, you will experience a renewed appreciation for these exercises.

The Spine Corrector can also be placed on the Reformer or Cadillac to add a new dimension of movement. Deeper extension movements can be performed safely with more support of the spine and pelvis. The glide of the reformer intensifies the exercises  to challenge core muscles and balance. Seek out an experienced instructor who is well trained in the Spine Corrector repertoire for this dynamic programming. The Master Teachers said that Clara Pilates loved the Spine Corrector. It is one of my favorite pieces of equipment and I hope to see more studios incorporate classes and use it in individual sessions. There is a video on youtube with Joseph Pilates performing his program on the Spine Corrector (there is a link below) and here are a few of my favorite moves.



LEG CIRCLES

This position “Over the Barrel” both supports the lumbar spine and intensifies the abdominal work.

SWAN

Starting from the rounded back position in flexion allows for a greater range of movement for complete spinal articulation.

HUNDRED

This version of the Hundred really challenges the core muscles. Each position increases the intensity of the abdominal work.

ROLL BACK
The Spine Corrector completely supports the spine in extension. This exercise allows the body to feel "one vertebra at a time" as the movement progresses both stretching over the Spine Corrector and articulating up to sitting.

Author: Kathy Corey