Queen Bee, my Spine Corrector
Last month, I mentioned there are 3 different barrel sizes in Pilates apparatuses. Think of the curves of the barrels being identical, just different sizes. Think of them as small, medium, and large. Or I like a royalty size theme of princess, queen, and king. With that, these blogs will be tied closely together as I’ll be introducing each barrel in a different blog to give each its moment to shine.
This month I’m here to introduce you to the queen size barrel, and appropriately named Queen Bee. Yep, a little Beyonce inspiration in my home studio.
The Gratz spine corrector is designed to meet Joseph Pilates’ specifications. Notice there are two curves available from this apparatus – a steeper curve that I’ll refer to as the king side, and a shallower curve that I’ll refer to as the queen side. Either side is aligned to support your specific needs. Use the king side for a more flexible spine. Use the queen side for a less flexible spine.
Most of the time, whatever body part is on the barrel is working means the opposite side of that body part is opening/stretching. Therefore, when you’re on your back, find the work/engagement/connection there to help open the front of the body. As an example: When working arm exercises, the barrel provides enough support to restore the spine’s natural curves, and open the front of the chest. Also, the metal handles on the sides of the barrel offer additional support for leg exercises as you work your seat and thutts to open and stretch the front of the hips.
The step portion of the spine corrector is really useful for shoulder bridges, including the single leg kicks. For teasers, depending on what you need in your body, you can try a teaser sitting on the step facing away from the curve of the barrel, as well as sitting on the step, and facing the curve of the barrel. Both versions offer support for what your body finds difficult in teasers. And hip circles – sitting on the step, reaching back for the metal handles – you will understand what the upper body should be doing when doing hip circles on the mat.
These are examples of how Queen Bee can support a body to assist in opening the body. However, just like Xena, Queen Bee can also challenge a body. Try a swan dive, swimming, grasshopper, or rocking exercises on Queen Bee. Being on top of the small barrel just bumped it up a notch for those exercises in testing your balance. Or try some side kicks here! How long can you keep both sides of your waist? This apparatus helps you to strengthen your back, shoulders, and abdominal muscles. Re-align your upper body using equal parts strength and stretch to open the body.
The “Movement Heals” series continues with the last barrel size I’ll be writing about next month – the king size. You’ll see how these barrels are similar, yet different. I love comparing and contrasting these barrels.