Which Reformers exercise is used to teach the Neutral Spine principle?

• A. Short Box Abdominals
• B. Feet in Straps
• C. Teaser on Floor
• D. Swan

Answer: (B)

Neutral spine is about keeping the natural curves of the spine and a stable pelvis while the limbs move. Feet in Straps on the Reformer teaches this clearly because you perform leg work with the pelvis held in a neutral position and the lower back resting toward the mat, while the legs move within the straps. The setup allows the spine to stay aligned as the legs press, pull, or circle, so the core works to prevent any unwanted back arch or hip tilt. Cues focus on keeping the ribs knitted down, the pelvis level, and the abdomen active to maintain that neutral alignment throughout the movement. This direct link between leg work and spinal stability makes it the best choice for reinforcing the Neutral Spine pattern.

Other options involve different spinal positions or emphasis. Short Box Abdominals tend to curl the spine and round the back, which shifts away from maintaining a neutral spine. Swan emphasizes back extension, opening the front of the body and extending the spine rather than keeping it in the neutral position. Teaser on Floor blends flexion, rotation, and balance, which challenges multiple patterns but isn’t focused on teaching neutral spine as the primary guiding principle.