During the spine stretch, what should you do as you roll forward?

In the spine stretch, as you roll forward, it is essential to exhale and draw the abdominals in. This action is crucial because exhaling allows for the engagement of the core muscles, which helps stabilize the pelvis and spine. Drawing in the abdominals supports spinal alignment and encourages a deeper forward fold, promoting flexibility in the spine while maintaining control throughout the movement. This method aligns with the principles of Pilates, where breath is synchronized with movement to enhance stability and effectiveness in exercises.

Engaging the core during this stretch not only helps protect the lower back but also enables a more profound stretch through the hamstrings and the lumbar region, making the exercise more beneficial overall.