When a student bends forward to touch his toes, he is performing what type of movement?

When a student bends forward to touch his toes, he is engaging in spinal flexion. This movement involves the bending of the spine forward, which decreases the angle between the vertebral bodies. In this case, as the student leans forward, the vertebrae in the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine come closer together, resulting in flexion.

Understanding this movement is essential for both practicing and teaching Pilates, as many exercises focus on articulating the spine through flexion and extension, allowing for improved mobility and strength. Spinal flexion is a fundamental movement that is prominently featured in various Pilates exercises, emphasizing the core's role in supporting the spine during such movements.