Pilates for XTERRA with Mieko Carey - Abdominal Exercises

In this Pilates for XTERRA training video 5x XTERRA Japan off-road triathlon champion Mieko Carey demonstrates a series of low-impact abdominal muscle workouts.

“Pilates abs exercises provide great benefits for runners and triathletes,” explained Carey.  “They are simple and very focused movements that target your core which will improve every part of your body’s performance and posture.”

Carey emphasizes the importance of breathing and challenges you to give energy to your whole body while engaging your stomach muscles.

“For these exercises all you will need is a mat, and there are two main things I want you to focus on.  First is your neck, if it becomes tight or sore make sure your head is down.  Second, make sure your lower back pushes towards the floor so there is no arch in your back,” says Carey.  “Slow movements and proper form are the key.”

Once you are comfortable performing the exercises increase the number of sets to meet your current fitness level.

Carey, who lives in Guam where she owns and operates BX Body Pilates, learned to love Pilates and became a certified instructor after using it to successfully combat debilitating sciatic nerve pain.

Past Pilates for XTERRA Videos:
LIVE – Routine for Beginners
Part I – Swimming
Part II – The Bridge Pose