3 Things I Did Today - to Improve Going Up Front

Firstly, here’s a short video of Nic, Senior Teacher making this exercise look easy!

Senior Teacher, Nic, performing the going up front exercise on the Wunda Chair

Well mine looks nothing like that! First of all, as a vertically challenged person (ie under 5 foot) just getting my foot on top of the chair is a challenge. Then I’ve got to stand up as tall as possible and then move the pedal - whaaatt! Not to mention the fear of falling off the chair.

After much puffing, panting and sheer determination it’s done but what can I do to improve it? Of course, Classical Pilates is a system and has all the answers (not always the easy road but definitely the best!).

Firstly, flexibility. I really need to open up my hips and legs … ballet stretches on the ladder barrel - amazing! Not only does it do that but it also encourages the lift of the back and the stretch into the standing leg.

What next? That unstable/tight ankle and foot? The one and only foot corrector! Such a small piece of kit with such a big bang for its buck. Just standing in the start position requires a monumental effort. It shows up all of the instability, weakness and tightness of not just the foot on the pedal but the one trying hard to hold me up.

Just a bit of time left for something else. Something strengthening comes to mind. Standing pumping will do the trick but using the electric chair for a bit of feedback and support. Such a deceptive exercise; the spring attached to the pedal tries to throw me off whilst I work everything including the lift of my body to keep myself still and then those glutes, hamstrings and even inner thighs pull the pedal to the floor and control the lift.

Phew!!! Done but still a work in progress but the groundwork is laid for when I next see you Wunda Chair. OK where’s my reformer gone!!

Click the button below for video clips of the above mentioned 3 tips!

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