Exercise Info

2a is a symmetric version of 1a and as such is technically easier. The challenge is to balance the upright body upon the slightly flexed knees.

The vertical line between the knees and the head moves forward and backwards, powered by full flexion of both ankles, slight flexing of the knees and pelvic stability.

As the body moves forward towards the stretch, the abdominal muscles are ignited to maintain the posture and balance.

2a is suitable for early stage musculoskeletal rehabilitation because it activates pelvic stability with timed lower limb mobility on a functional level, without moving the stabilized pelvis, spine or hips.

Warnings

• Perform this exercise in pain-free and comfortable ranges only.

• If painful or uncomfortable, try to perform less range of this exercise.

• If not possible, skip this exercise and consult with a physical therapist or movement professional.

• When relevant, ensure that this exercise is within the surgeon's post-operation protocol.

StarBarre position

• Waist height

Tempo

• Move - stretch - return - relax ...

Breathing Pattern

• Inhale - Starting position.

• Exhale - Movement, stretch and return phases

• Inhale - Relax phase.

Exercise Instructions

Starting Position

• Upright relaxed standing, about one step away from bar

• Stand as tall as possible, with the arms relaxed by the body.

• Keep shoulders wide and low, and a tall neck (chin not poking).

• Look at the horizon.

• Inhale.

Movement Phase

• Upon exhalation, fully flex the ankles and slightly flex the knees at the same time.

• This maneuver pushes the balanced upright body line (from head to knees) forward.

• As the body moves forward, place hands gently on bar.

• Keep both ankles and knees at the same line.

• Feel the abdominal muscles kicking in to maintain pelvic stability as the body moves forward.

• The movement ends at the end range of ankle flexion.

Ensure

• The movement of the eyes is straight forward, rather than up or down.

• The hips, pelvis and spine remain in the neutral position - joint movement should be from the knees, ankles and arm.

• The arm movements are mainly passive, generated from the body movement back and forth.

• Keep the vertical line between the knees and the head straight as it moves in space.

• The forward movement of the body is fluent; no stops on the way.

• Knees stay at the same line throughout the exercise.

Stretch Phase

• Continue the exhalation and feel the full range ankle flexion.

• Try to be as tall as possible on tiptoes, not to loose height in the stretch phase.

• At this point, hold for a split second and feel the pelvic stability muscles working to hold the upright posture harmoniously.

• Keep the upper body relaxed and upright.

Return Phase

• Continue the exhalation and return to the Starting Position by reversing the movement phase elements.

• Timing: Time the body, leg and arm movements to finish their movement and return to the starting position together.

Relax Phase

• Inhale in the upright standing position and start gearing the body for the next repetition.