2 min readEnhancewell
We brought you pumpkin Pilates for fall. Now, we’re back with festive Pilates, so you can infuse your workout with some holly jolly vibes!
Festive Pilates Moves
The holiday season is filled with things to do. The social calendar is packed, and taking time for you often goes by the wayside. Even a short Pilates practice can help your physical and mental well-being, to manage stress, curb sugar cravings, and keep your energy up while staying on Santa’s Nice List.
Candy Cane
Eleven months out of the year, this move is called the roll over. Once December hits, it deserves a rebrand.
Begin by lying on your back with your legs straight, arms by your sides, palms down. Engage your core and, on an inhale, lift your legs to a 90-degree angle. As you exhale, swing your legs over your head, lift your hips, and roll your spine until your legs are parallel to the floor or your toes touch the floor. This is the full candy cane experience! On the way down, open your legs, flex your feet, and slowly roll down one vertebra at a time, until you return to the beginning position.
Santa Squats
How does Santa lift all those gifts without hurting his back? With Santa squats, of course!
To start, stand with your feet hip-width apart and imagine a string lifting your head to the ceiling, keeping your spine tall and neutral. As you inhale, bend your knees, sink your hips back, and keep your weight in your heels. Keep your chest open and your arms in a big circle in front of you (as if you’re holding Santa’s big bag of toys). Exhale and straighten your legs to return to the start position.
Be An Ornament
Rolling like a ball is so September. During the holiday season, be an ornament instead!
Start this move by pulling your knees into your chest, holding your shins with your hands, and lowering your chin to your chest. Once you’ve assumed the “ornament” position, you can roll backwards as you inhale, then return to the upright position as you exhale. This is one ornament that won’t shatter as it rolls!
With a little creativity and a lot of core control, any Pilates move can get a holiday twist! Scissors become Wrapping Station! Swans become 7 Swans a-Swimming. Planks become Party Platters. Ok.. some take a little more creativity than others.
*A Few More Ideas for Spreading Cheer *
Whether you’re attending a Pilates class or leading one, don your favorite ugly Christmas sweater to keep things cozy and festive.
As a Pilates teacher, swap your usual tunes for a festive playlist. Let Sia, Mariah Carey, and Michael Bublé help you set the tone for your practice.
Practice these festive Pilates moves for a few minutes at home or sign up for a class at Enhancewell Pilates and enjoy a dedicated time and place for you time. You deserve it!