Reformer Pilates
Illustration of Feet in Straps Openings on the Pilates reformer

Exercise

Feet in Straps Openings

Beginner

Supine leg-strap exercise opening and closing the legs to train hip mobility, inner-thigh control, and pelvic stability.

Setup instructions

Lie supine with both feet in the straps and the legs extended on a high diagonal. Place the arms by the sides and centre the pelvis on the carriage. Choose a range where the hips feel open but not forced.

Breathing cues

Inhale to open. Exhale to close.

Movement steps

  1. 1Inhale to open both legs evenly into a wide V shape.
  2. 2Pause before the pelvis rolls or the straps pull unevenly.
  3. 3Exhale to draw the legs back together with control.
  4. 4Keep the knees soft and the movement smooth in both directions.

Common mistakes

Opening wider than the hips can control; letting the pelvis tip; snapping the legs closed; locking the knees; losing even strap tension.

Safety notes

Stay in a comfortable hip range and avoid forcing turnout. Reduce the opening if the inner thighs or hip joints feel strained.

Connections

Muscles worked

Equipment needed

FAQs

  • Is Feet in Straps Openings beginner-friendly?

    Yes. It is beginner-friendly when the opening range is moderate and the springs are controlled. The straps support the legs while the hips learn to open and close evenly.

  • What muscles does Feet in Straps Openings work?

    The hip muscles control the opening and closing, with the glutes and inner thighs coordinating the leg path. The core works throughout to keep the pelvis stable.

  • What is Feet in Straps Openings good for?

    It is excellent for hip mobility, inner-thigh coordination, and learning symmetrical strap control before progressing to circles or more complex patterns.