What is the term used for the body's natural curvature when viewed from the side?

The term that describes the body's natural curvature when viewed from the side is often referred to as lordosis and kyphosis. Lordosis refers to the inward curvature of the lumbar and cervical regions of the spine, while kyphosis refers to the outward curvature of the thoracic region. These curves are essential for maintaining balance and alignment of the spine, allowing for efficient movement and load distribution during various activities, including those performed in Pilates. Understanding these natural curves is crucial for practitioners and instructors, as they inform safe movement patterns and alignment corrections during exercises.

Neutral alignment is related to maintaining these curves within a balanced state, but it does not specifically describe the curvature itself. Extension and flexion, on the other hand, refer to movements of the body rather than the static measurements of curvature. Hence, lordosis and kyphosis are the most accurate terms to describe the natural spinal curvatures when viewed laterally.