Can't make it to mermaid fitness class [1]? You can still get a little sea-queen-inspired workout at home with this mermaidy exercise move, the Mermaid Teaser. MntStudio founder Elaine Hayes [2] demonstrates and breaks it down [3].
This oblique move "challenges your coordination and balance," said Elaine. "The key to this move is to go slowly and breathe! Imagine a 'TA-DA' moment when you reach the top (think of lifting your chest proudly)." Here's exactly how to do it:
- Lie on your ride side with your right arm extended in front of you and your top arm up by your ear. Pitch your legs slightly forward and squeeze your inner thighs together.
- Inhale to prepare. As you exhale, roll onto your right glute while you lift your chest and legs.
- Reach your left arm toward your feet.
- Inhale to come back down the same way you come up, carefully lying back down on your side.
- Repeat on the second side. This completes one rep.
A few more pointers from Elaine: "To modify this move, you can bend your knees on the way up. This reduces the stress on the hips and low back. To advance, lift both arms up as you come into the move."