Side lying leg circles with your feet in stirrups is a controlled hip strengthening exercise that targets the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, deep hip rotators and core stabilisers.
It also challenges pelvic stability and hip joint control while the moving leg works against resistance from the straps.
This exercise is often prescribed to improve lateral hip strength and pelvic control.
Set up the Reformer with appropriate spring tension as advised by your physiotherapist.
Lie on your side on the reformer carriage with your head supported comfortably on a head cushion or Pilates ball.
Align your hips so they are stacked directly on top of each other.
Position your bottom leg bent and floating above the spring well.
Place your top foot into the long stirrup with your foot pointed.
Straighten your leg to press the stirrup away in a controlled manner.
Begin drawing controlled circles with your top leg, moving from the hip joint.
After completing circles in one direction, reverse the direction while maintaining control.
Complete repetitions as prescribed by your physiotherapist.
