How To: Do the beginner pilates move Heel Beats

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If you are looking a for a quick pilates reference, take a look at this pilates animation. This a quick & easy, clearly explained diagram of the pilates mat exercise: Classical Pilates for Beginners:
The Side Kick Series: Heel Beats. Pilates exercises focus on breathing, alignments of the spine & build strong torso muscles.

Setup for Heel Beats:

* Lie on your stomach your head on your hands, and your heels together in Pilates stance..
* Scoop your abs, clench your glutes...

Action for Heel Beats.

* Use your glutes to raise your legs off the mat.
* Briskly beat your heels together.

Classic Pilates Cueing:

* Lift, beat your inner thighs together!
* Long legs! Scoop deep! Clench the butt!

Purposes:

* Works the abs, back muscles and gluteus maximus.

Precision Points:

* Scoop your abs, - make a house for a mouse!
* Work your glutes, not your hamstrings!
* Keep the body long and strong on the mat.

Modifications:

Don't let an injury or weakness stop you! There is always a modification. Take your time and find the right one for you. If in doubt, seek advice!

* Back or hip pain - Scoop the abs, clench the buttocks and slide the legs apart and together again. Do it slowly and for fewer repetitions.