Which exercise requires the ankles to be in dorsiflexion?

The Tendon Stretch on the Reformer requires the ankles to be in dorsiflexion. In this exercise, as the feet are placed on the foot bar and the movement involves flexing and extending the legs, it necessitates the engagement of the muscles in the lower leg to lift and lower the heels, which in turn positions the toes upwards towards the shin. This position is characteristic of dorsiflexion, where the angle between the foot and the anterior leg decreases.

In Pilates, maintaining proper alignment and activation of the foot and ankle is essential for effectively executing movements and ensuring safety. Dorsiflexion is particularly important in the Tendon Stretch to enhance the range of motion and control during the movement, thereby allowing for greater focus on the hamstrings and posterior chain engagement.

Other exercises in the list may involve various positions of the ankles but do not specifically require dorsiflexion as an integral part of their execution. Understanding these distinctions helps in applying Pilates principles effectively in practice.