Opting for shoulder taps over crunches led to a stronger core and superior stability for me
For a bodyweight workout that offers numerous benefits, look no further than shoulder taps. This versatile exercise, which originates from Pilates, is a great addition to any fitness routine. Here's why.
Core Strength and Stability
Shoulder taps effectively target the core muscles, particularly the abs and obliques, by requiring the body to maintain stability in a plank position while lifting each hand to tap the opposite shoulder. This movement engages the core muscles to prevent hip movement, enhancing anti-rotation strength and stability.
Upper Body Strength and Control
Beyond core work, shoulder taps also strengthen the arms and shoulders, improving overall upper body control and stability. The exercise challenges the shoulder girdle, which is crucial for maintaining posture and performing various daily activities.
Balance and Coordination
By requiring the body to maintain a stable plank position despite the movement of the arms, shoulder taps improve balance and coordination. This is particularly beneficial for enhancing overall physical fitness and reducing the risk of falls.
Functional Movement
Shoulder taps mimic functional movements that are essential in everyday life, making them a practical exercise for real-world fitness and mobility.
Neck-Friendly Alternative
For those who experience neck strain from traditional exercises like crunches, shoulder taps offer a neck-friendly alternative that still targets core strength effectively.
A Variation of the Classic Pilates Exercise
Shoulder taps are a variation of the classic Pilates exercise 'leg pull prone'. They can be a great help for beginners looking to do Pilates, as they provide a more accessible entry point into the world of Pilates exercises.
Full-Body Burn
Maintaining a plank position in the unilateral hold requires work throughout the body, activating and engaging the quads, glutes, shoulder and arm muscles as well as the core for a full-body burn.
Modifications for Beginners
For beginners, shoulder taps can be modified by doing them against a wall, which helps them get the feel of the control required in the shoulder and core. Starting in an upright position, leaning their hands against a wall, can also be beneficial for those new to the exercise.
In summary, shoulder taps are a versatile bodyweight exercise that offers several benefits for core strength and overall fitness. By engaging the core, improving upper body strength, enhancing balance and coordination, and mimicking functional movements, shoulder taps are a practical exercise for anyone looking to improve their fitness level.
Shoulder taps, derived from Pilates, not only strengthen the core muscles such as abs and obliques but also improve upper body control by targeting arms and shoulders. By enhancing balance and coordination, this exercise reduces the risk of falls and improves overall physical fitness. As a neck-friendly alternative to traditional exercises like crunches, shoulder taps effectively target core strength. It's a functional movement that mimics everyday activities, providing a full-body burn due to the unilateral hold required in the plank position. For beginners, modifications like doing shoulder taps against a wall can help them get the hang of the exercise's control and stability, making it an accessible entry point into the world of Pilates exercises.
