A wooden structure which has a curved padded, leather/PVC covered coating. The back section of the barrel has three horizontal poles connecting the upper structure, and at the top, a longer bar extends past the structure itself. The main wooden structure on top of the curved wood is fixed in place. The ladder barrel is in the family of barrels, and a small barrel and spine corrector are additional accessories in this family of equipment.
It’s difficult to explain the feeling when working on a ladder barrel. But the main use of a ladder barrel is to achieve deep supported stretching and for advanced practitioners to use it to challenge the body! When stretching on the ladder barrel, even for the tightest of bodies, or those with injuries, it gives a safe, stable and supporting base to work on. The different level bars at the back accomodate for all body shapes and types. For advanced practioners, the curved section of the barrel can be used for certain exercises to challenge and advanced the practice, or for deep and advanced stretching.
The ballet stretches. A series of four exercises, it allows the body to get a stable stretch and really opening up the joints and tight muscles. A mixed feeling between pleasure and pain!
Side Sit Ups. Using the legs as a base, client are able to work the oblique and side muscles in an effective way to build strength without forcing or straining.
Short Box Series. Used by advanced clients to challenge the short box series normally experienced on the reformer on the ladder barrel instead. By reducing the support round the body, the exercise becomes more intensive and challenging.