What focus does the "Hundred" exercise place on breath during the movement?

The "Hundred" exercise in Pilates emphasizes the importance of coordinating breath with movement. This synchronization is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of the exercise and promoting overall body awareness. As practitioners perform the exercise, they engage in a specific breath pattern— inhaling for a count of five and exhaling for a count of five—while simultaneously pumping their arms and maintaining a stable core. This coordinated breathing helps to energize the body, supports the abdominal engagement required in the exercise, and fosters an overall rhythm that can improve circulation and concentration. By focusing on the breath in relation to the movement, practitioners can delve deeper into the mind-body connection that is central to Pilates practice.