When performing Spinal Extension prone on the Spine Corrector, what should the teacher be doing?

When performing spinal extension in a prone position on the Spine Corrector, the teacher's role is crucial in guiding and supporting clients to ensure they achieve the desired movement while maintaining proper alignment and engagement. Assisting the clients while keeping their ankles and legs steady is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, spinal extension requires a stable base to enable proper movement of the upper body. By stabilizing the client's ankles and legs, the teacher helps maintain the integrity of the position. This stability allows clients to focus on extending the spine without worrying about their lower body moving out of alignment, which could lead to compensatory movements or strain.

Secondly, the teacher's assistance is vital in providing the right amount of support for clients, especially if they are new to this exercise or may lack the necessary strength and control. This guidance helps them learn the correct muscular engagement needed for effective spinal extension, promoting better outcomes and preventing injury.

While independence and using resistance bands may be valuable in other contexts, in this specific exercise, the emphasis is on ensuring the client's stability and safety. Reducing repetitions does not address the immediate needs of learning the movement, and thus assisting in maintaining position is prioritized in this scenario.