3 min readEnhancewell
Stepping into your first Pilates class can feel like learning a new language. Unfamiliar phrases like “Scoop your abs,” “neutral spine,” and “imprint” can leave a newcomer feeling lost. At Enhancewell, we believe understanding the lingo is the first step to truly connecting with your body and unlocking the incredible benefits of Pilates.
We want your journey to be empowering, not intimidating. That’s why we’ve put together this handy glossary of common Pilates terms you’re likely to hear in our studio. Consider this your cheat sheet to confidently navigate your next class and feel right at home on the Reformer (or mat!).
Top Pilates Terms
Powerhouse
This fundamental concept refers to your body’s entire central region – everything from your lower ribs to just below your glutes. It includes your deep abdominal muscles, glutes, and pelvic floor. Think of it as your body’s control center, the origin point for all movement. Engaging your Powerhouse means activating this core region for support and stability.
Pilates Stance (or “V” Stance)
“Pilates Stance” means heels together, toes slightly turned out, forming a small “V” shape. Cues like “glue your heels together” and “open your knees wide” encourage inner thigh and glute activation, stabilizing your pelvis and engaging your Powerhouse. This adds precision, ensuring you work from your center.
Scoop Your Abs
This phrase means engaging your deep abdominal muscles (transversus abdominis) by gently drawing your navel towards your spine. Imagine drawing a spoon of ice cream up into your body. This action creates a strong, stable core and protects your lower back.
Neutral Spine
This cue reminds you to maintain the gentle curvature that is the natural alignment of your spine. When lying down, a small space should exist between your lower back and the mat (like for a blueberry!). Achieving a neutral spine ensures optimal posture and prevents strain. Your instructor can guide you to find your neutral spine.
Imprint
In contrast to “neutral spine,” “imprint” means gently pressing your lower back into the mat, flattening its curve (or smushing the imaginary blueberry). You achieve this by engaging your abdominal muscles and tilting your pelvis slightly. We use an imprint for exercises needing extra lumbar support.
Articulation
This term refers to the smooth, sequential movement of your spine, one vertebra at a time, which can help with spinal flexibility. Think of a string of pearls, each moving independently. You’ll hear “articulate your spine” during exercises like Roll Down or Roll Up to peel your spine off or roll it down with control and precision.
Opposition
“Opposition” refers to simultaneously moving in two opposite directions to create length and stability. For example, in a leg circle, you might reach your leg long away from your hip while rooting your opposite hip into the mat. This move creates joint space, allowing you to move with efficiency and grace.
Feeling more confident? We hope this glossary demystifies common Pilates terms and helps you feel confident from the first moment you step into our studio. Remember, every expert was once a beginner, and we’re always here to guide you and help you understand the incredible language of Pilates!
Ready to put your new vocabulary to the test? Book your Enhancewell class today, or get started with a private session for one-on-one support! We can’t wait to move with you.