I have no doubt that everyone honestly loves the ab series best off all, but more people comment, “I love this part” at the very end of class when we stand up and roll the shoulders and let the legs shake out. I like to believe the statement is made because class is over and everyone is so proud of the work they did over the past hour. It also might be that after an hour of engaging and working the whole body, releasing any tension feels wonderful.

Our bodies get tense without us even realizing it in daily life and during exercise. So whatever you are doing right now, stop. Take a moment and roll your shoulders and let your legs shake. Just let your whole body move and wiggle. Shake out that tension!

For anyone who has trouble in a ball class with their feet slipping on the mat and not sticking well, consider trying grip socks. I don’t wear them so I can’t really comment as to how well they work, but they are an option that is out there.

Here are some brands that were highlighted in Pilates Style Magazine:

Abi and Joseph

Toezies

There is no substitute for stretching. A few weeks ago, after weight lifting, the muscles in my chest were burning for about a day and a half. Admittedly, I like that feeling, but it can start to get in the way of daily activity. I stretched the muscles for 3 sets of 30 seconds and boom–just like that–the tension in my muscles was gone.

Muscle pain doesn’t always dissipate so easily and daily stretching is important to keep your muscles from getting tight.

Take some time today and stretch your body. Move it in a way that feels good. You won’t keep stretching if you detest it, so don’t stretch to the point of pain. Feel a gentle stretch, not a strain. There’s got to be a position that feels good to you. What is your favorite stretch for your body?