The Pilates Magic Cirlcle is one of many props used in Pilates and one of the most popular. While Pilates was originally designed to be done without any exercise equipment, over the years a number of props started creeping in. One problem is that there is no resistance exercise in Pilates and by introducing some of these props you can add resistance training into the mix to really broaden your horizons and increase the effectiveness of your training. The Pilates Magic Circle is commonly known as a Pilates ring and is a very good addition to any workout.

Its basically a circular ring that is about 13 inches in diameter and made from either plastic or from metal. The purpose of it is to add resistance to your postures but its a very low level of resistance. its not designed to be like a heavy workout but rather to provide just enough resistance for muscle awareness. Often when you have no resistance you can feel like your limbs are “floating” and by adding the magic circle that gentle resistance can help you gain a better feel for what you are doing.

The Magic Circle can be used in a variety of ways. The most popular is to use it to help tone and shape your inner thighs, your neck, arms and chest. You can use it either when standing or while laying down and the two ring grips makes it ey to keep in position.

When Joseph Pilates first started using these rings it was made out of the steel rings used for beer kegs. Over the years it developed and it now comes in different resistance levels. Depending on your own size and strength you may need more or les resistance and in general men need greater resistance because the steel rings tends to bend.

The Pilates Magic Circle is made from either steel, plastic or a combination of the two. Both are relative inexpensive and the plastic versions tend to lst longer although its a different from of flexibility that not everybody likes. Its best to try a few before you buy one to gauge your own strength and how your body responds to it. Some of the most popular brands are the Stamina Pilates Magic Circle, the Danskin Now Pilates Magic Circle and the GOGO Pilates Ring.

Its a great travel companion and can help you take your pilates training to a whole other level. More resistance, a greater sense of muscle awareness and more variety in your workouts. In my opinion its a must for anyone doing Pilates. Try it. You won’t be disappointed.
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