Pilates Power Animal for July: Seal

We know Joseph Pilates was inspired by seals. He even named an exercise, the seal. In seal, the exercise, we get to recreate the amazing flexibility of the seal's spine, and also how independently the flippers move from the trunk of the body.

If you haven't tried the seal or done it in a while, review the instructions now. See how the long curve of the spine, and the flippers, are reflected in the exercise. It's a fun rolling exercise. I think fun might be another lesson Joseph Pilates was taking from the seal!
Seal Exercise Instructions

There are other wonderful qualities in the form and movement of seals that we can take into our Pilates practice. Their grace (in the water), for one. But what I also want to point out is what you see in the image above. Look at the fabulous extension of the spine. I love how upward and strong the line of energy is out the top of the head even as the gaze is exactly even. And at the same time, it appears as if this seals "shoulders" are relaxed and just dripping down. I'm talking images not seal physiology of course, but I think this is a very potent image to take into a workout.

I hope you are enjoying taking inspiration from Joe and looking into the movement of a different animal each month. If you have a suggestion for a power animal of the month, or an animal movement insight to share, feel free to leave a comment below.

Power Animal of May: Cat
Power Animal of June: Starfish

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_{photo: Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images}