In Ribcage Stabilization #1 Arm Press, how should the legs be positioned?

In Ribcage Stabilization #1 Arm Press, how should the legs be positioned?

• A. Legs extended
• B. Legs lifted/tabletop or extended
• C. Legs in a split
• D. Knees together

Answer: (B)

The ability to stabilize the ribcage while pressing depends on a solid, neutral base from the lower body. Keeping the legs lifted off the carriage or in a tabletop position, or extended, places the pelvis in a stable alignment and lengthens the spine, which helps you maintain a firm, neutral ribcage as you press. If the legs are in a split or knees are together, or if they’re simply resting in a less stable position, the pelvis can rotate or tilt and the ribcage can shift, making it harder to keep the torso from moving. By choosing a lifted, tabletop, or extended leg position, you create the proper foundation to stabilize the ribcage throughout the arm press.

The ability to stabilize the ribcage while pressing depends on a solid, neutral base from the lower body. Keeping the legs lifted off the carriage or in a tabletop position, or extended, places the pelvis in a stable alignment and lengthens the spine, which helps you maintain a firm, neutral ribcage as you press. If the legs are in a split or knees are together, or if they’re simply resting in a less stable position, the pelvis can rotate or tilt and the ribcage can shift, making it harder to keep the torso from moving. By choosing a lifted, tabletop, or extended leg position, you create the proper foundation to stabilize the ribcage throughout the arm press.