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Maria and Wolfgang doing the Pilates exercise Front Support Hip Opener
Pilates - Feel the change
Pilates - Feel the change

Pilates exercises explained

Front Support Hip Opener

The "Front Support Hip Opener" is a more difficult version of the "Front Support Classic".

This front support exercise also trains the arm and shoulder girdle muscles as well as the entire torso muscles. It promotes balance and requires inner stability and concentration. It also mobilizes the hip joint and trains the gluteal muscles.

Exercise description

4-foot stand - on the exhalation bring one knee under the body, then turn the pelvis up and push the leg backwards in external rotation and stretch it. Then return the leg to the starting position.

We repeat the exercise 4 to 6 times per side.

This movement strengthens the back and buttock muscles and provides mobility in the hips.

Picture of Maria, Pilates instructor

Pro Tip From Maria

If you feel pain in your wrists, place them a little further in front of your shoulder girdle. Mobilize the wrists before the exercise to stimulate the synovial fluid.

You can also place the heels of your hands on a slightly elevated mat, or you can short term rest on your forearms. Spread your fingers as you rest on the mat and try to put weight on the balls of your feet.

Video with the brief explanation of the Pilates exercise Front Support Hip Opener

Most common errors

The head is too high - keep your eyes towards the ground.

The supporting leg tips away during the movement - the best way to see this mistake is to film yourself with your smartphone during the execution.

The free leg is stretched too far towards the ceiling, making it easier to fall into a hollow back.

Graphic with the muscles that are trained during the Pilates exercise Front Support Hip Opener

  • Deep muscles
  • Surface musculature
Muscle groups
  • Transversus
  • Multifidus
  • Obliquus internus
  • Serratus anterior
  • Rhomboideus
  • Diaphragm Pelvis
  • Quadratus lumborum
  • Piriformis
  • Pectoralis Major
  • Biceps & Triceps
  • Obliquus Externus
  • Ischiocrural
  • Gluteus Maximus
  • Gluteus Minimus
  • Iliopsoas
Equipment
  • Mat
Difficulty
  • Medium
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