In the Hundred exercise, where should the arms be positioned?

In the Hundred exercise, the arms should be positioned by the sides of the body to promote proper alignment and engagement. This positioning allows for better stabilization of the torso and helps in activating the core muscles effectively. By keeping the arms alongside the body, practitioners can focus on maintaining a strong and stable pelvic position while engaging their abdominal muscles deeply.

This arm placement also aids in the overall rhythm and coordination of the exercise, as the movements of the arms in the Hundred are typically more about pumping with controlled breath rather than leading with the arms. This enhances the focus on the core, which is the primary objective of the exercise, while also encouraging appropriate breathing patterns.

The other options do not support the key demands of the Hundred exercise as effectively. For example, arms above the head or extended towards the carriage may compromise stability and shift focus away from the core. Placing the arms in front of the chest could also detract from the essential connection with the abdominal muscles. Therefore, positioning the arms by the sides of the body is optimal for achieving the intended benefits of this classic Pilates exercise.