The side planks were almost impossible because the bar hurts my hands too much. Do you have a technique to recommend to avoid this?

Lani G Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful comment. This makes me so happy to hear and is why I feel blessed to teach and share this incredible work with you all! xx

Anne N Thank you for this thoughtful comment. I completely agree, not just because I created these classes, but as a lifelong Pilates student and practitioner we must remember the "why" behind each exercise and our Pilates principles. This focus allows us to deepen our practice and get the most out of each movement, exercise and class. It's true, Pilates never get's easier. Rather, the more you learn the harder it becomes and the harder we work, physically and mentally. I'm grateful this came through in my challenge. xoxo

Bree thank you so much!! xoxo

Leah L thank you so much!! Lot's more content to come! :)

Adrienne H thank you for your question! The lighter the weight the more challenging these plank exercises are. Less support and control. I use anything from 2 reds, the most support for perhaps a client strong in their upper body but struggling to find core strength, to 1 red to challenge our concentration, control and centering. The side plank twist variation is more on the advanced side and I would recommend using the spring setting you use for Star. Traditionally 1 red. I hope this is helpful! xx

Gersende this is a great question and thank you for your comment. I talk and cue a lot about pressing the bar away in order to not sink into the hand and wrist joints. The stronger we are in our back muscles, lats, the more support we have when in any form of plank or side plank. Until you feel secure and strong in a side plank on one hand on the bar, I would recommend practicing the exercise on the floor on your hand or forearm. Sometimes students have thinner wrists or hands and these exercises simply don't work the way they are intended but it's important to listen to your body and find a modification that feels safe and effective, even if it looks different from what's on the screen. I hope this is helpful! xx