In Pilates, roll-downs and roll ups have been one of the basic exercise taught to begin learning how to engage the spine, pelvis, and abdominal muscles. It has become the a pivotal part in core strength and stability. Many exercise programs have left out this piece when teaching the traditional sit-up or crunch, often leaving one open to injury, extreme muscle tension or strain in various areas of our bodies, to compensate for using the wrong muscles to perform the exercises.