Reformer Pilates
Illustration of Hip Twist on the Pilates reformer

Exercise

Hip Twist

Advanced

Supine rotational exercise with legs in tabletop that challenges oblique control.

Setup instructions

Lie supine with arms in a T position and legs in tabletop. Press the arms into the mat and lengthen the neck. Engage the abdominals before dropping the legs.

Breathing cues

Exhale to twist. Inhale through center.

Movement steps

  1. 1Exhale to lower both knees to one side without lifting the opposite shoulder.
  2. 2Inhale to return through center.
  3. 3Exhale to lower to the other side.
  4. 4Keep the movement controlled and the knees together.

Common mistakes

Letting the shoulders lift; dropping the legs too low; separating the knees; rushing the twist.

Safety notes

Reduce range or keep feet on the mat if the low back arches. Stop for sharp twisting pain.

Connections

Muscles worked

Equipment needed

FAQs

  • Is Hip Twist beginner-friendly?

    No. Hip Twist is advanced due to rotational load on the lumbar spine.

  • What muscles does Hip Twist work?

    Obliques and deep abdominals control the twist; hip flexors stabilise the leg shape.

  • What is Hip Twist good for?

    It builds rotational trunk control and hip stability in supine.

  • How low should my knees go?

    Only as low as the opposite shoulder stays down and the back stays long.