Which movement would best illustrate a dorsiflexion exercise in Pilates?

Dorsiflexion refers to the movement where the foot is flexed upwards towards the shin, decreasing the angle between the dorsum (top) of the foot and the leg. The action of lifting the toes while keeping the heel on the ground directly represents this movement, as the toes move towards the shin, effectively demonstrating dorsiflexion.

In Pilates, promoting proper foot mechanics is essential for alignment and functionality throughout various exercises. By illustrating dorsiflexion through lifting the toes, practitioners can enhance their awareness of how the foot engages with the body and the ground, which is crucial for balance and stability during more complex movements.

The other options do not demonstrate dorsiflexion: pointing the toes away from the body signifies plantar flexion, bending the knee in a lunge does not specifically highlight the action of dorsiflexion, and sitting with extended legs straight out does not engage the ankle in the same manner. Therefore, lifting the toes while the heel remains grounded is the most accurate illustration of dorsiflexion in this context.