Adding wobble to your workout can be wonderful! Here are four reasons for the STOTT PILATES Stability Cushion™:
1) It can help restore the core stabilizing muscles of your spine and pelvis (transversus abdominis and multifidis).
A cushion requires your core muscles to respond to the unpredictability of an unstable surface— your deep core muscles have to work to balance and control your rib cage, spine and pelvis. Try adding a cushion under your knees in a plank position for more challenge.
2) The rocking action of the cushion can help facilitate the motion of the spine.
Place the stability cushion (or two) behind the upper back and extend the upper spine (open the chest to the ceiling) to provide a greater range of motion and more work for the upper abdominals. This can be a great alternative abdominal exercise for someone with kyphosis (an exaggerated curvature of the upper spine).
3) The support of the cushion helps the pelvis during Swan Dive.
Place the stability cushion under the pelvis to allow front of the hips to open more and support the lumbar spine (lower back) during full spinal extension, as shown in the picture.
4) Support and shape the spine and rib cage during Mermaid.
Place the stability cushion (or two) under your rib cage in a side lying position to help lengthen the muscles on the opposing side (erector spinae and quadratus lumborum). Be sure to breathe into the side and back of the ribs as you stretch.
