Starting Position

What is Starting Position (Exact Alignment)?

Precise body setup before movement begins including pelvis, spine, scapulae, head, limbs, carriage, springs, and equipment placement.

What should be checked first in a STOTT Pilates exercise setup?

Pelvic placement and spinal alignment.

What are the two main pelvic placements in STOTT Pilates?

Neutral pelvis and imprinted pelvis.

What is neutral pelvis?

The ASIS and pubic bone are level in the same horizontal plane with the natural lumbar curve maintained.

What is imprinted pelvis?

A slightly posteriorly tilted pelvis with the lumbar spine gently flattened toward the mat.

What is neutral spine?

The natural curves of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine are maintained.

What is scapular stabilization?

The scapulae remain stable on the rib cage without elevation or winging.

What is ideal cervical placement?

The cervical spine follows the natural curve with the head aligned over the shoulders.

Why is setup important in STOTT Pilates?

Improves movement efficiency, muscle recruitment, and safety.

What should be monitored during starting position on the reformer?

Spring tension, carriage position, foot bar placement, straps, and body alignment.

What does “axial elongation” mean?

Lengthening upward through the spine to create space between vertebrae.

What is the goal of alignment in STOTT Pilates?

Optimal biomechanics and efficient muscle recruitment.