What does "alignment check" refer to in Pilates?

In Pilates, an "alignment check" primarily involves suggesting specific adjustments to maintain proper posture during exercises. This concept emphasizes the importance of body alignment for achieving optimal performance and safety while practicing Pilates. Proper alignment helps to ensure that the body engages the correct muscles, minimizing the risk of injury and enhancing the effectiveness of each movement.

When performing Pilates exercises, it's essential to maintain an awareness of how the body is positioned. This includes checking the alignment of the spine, pelvis, shoulders, and limbs. Regular checks and adjustments allow practitioners to correct any misalignments and ensure a balanced and safe practice.

The other options focus on different aspects of fitness, such as workout effectiveness, dietary concerns, and physiological metrics like heart rate; however, these do not directly pertain to alignment checks in the context of Pilates practice.