The Pilates exercise known as Clockwork is a subtle but powerful movement that teaches deep pelvic awareness, core control, and coordination of the abdominals with the pelvic floor. While it may not look like much from the outside, consistent practice builds a foundation for stronger posture, smoother movement, and better stability. Here is a full guide with instructions, breathing patterns, and enough sets and reps to make noticeable improvements if practiced daily.
Starting Position
Begin by lying flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet placed hip-width apart on the floor. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, palms down. Your pelvis should rest in a neutral position, with your hip bones and pubic bone level. Gently draw your navel in toward your spine to engage the core.
The Imaginary Clock
Picture your pelvis as a clock face. The navel represents 12 o’clock, the pubic bone is 6 o’clock, the left hip is 9 o’clock, and the right hip is 3 o’clock. This visualization helps you direct the small, controlled movements of your pelvis.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Inhale to prepare in neutral.
- Exhale as you tilt your pelvis so your lower back presses into the mat, moving toward 12 o’clock.
- Continue rolling through 3 o’clock, then 6, then 9, returning to 12. This completes a full circle.
- Inhale and repeat in the opposite direction: 12 → 9 → 6 → 3 → back to 12.
- Keep the motion small and controlled, as if you are tracing a smooth circle with your pelvis.
Breathing
Maintain steady, even breathing. Inhale during preparation and to help open the ribs as you move through the circle, then exhale to deepen abdominal engagement and guide the pelvis.
Recommended Sets and Reps for Daily Progress
For the best results, practice the following daily routine:
- Beginners: 2 sets of 6 circles in each direction.
- Intermediate: 3 sets of 8 circles in each direction.
- Advanced: 3 sets of 10 circles in each direction, performed more slowly for control.
Rest for 15 to 30 seconds between sets while remaining in position.
How Improvement Shows
With consistent daily practice, you will notice smoother pelvic articulation, stronger lower abdominals, and greater awareness of core stability. Many people also find reduced lower back tension as the exercise trains subtle spinal mobility. Over time, Clockwork becomes a tool for refining control in more advanced Pilates movements.
Key Tips for Success
- Focus on precision, not size. The circles should remain small and steady.
- Avoid tightening the glutes or pushing with your legs. Let your abdominals guide the motion.
- Visualize the clock to help maintain even, balanced movement in both directions.
By dedicating a few minutes each day to Clockwork with the sets and reps outlined here, you will develop a stronger foundation for your Pilates practice and see lasting improvements in your core stability and pelvic control.
