Pilates Ring and Pilates Magic Circle

by Geraldine Marques-Frediani, Pilates Instructor

The exercise equipment developed by Joseph Pilates uses resistance to aid in the goals of what he called "Contrology".
One of his devices was the circle - a simple piece with some padding on opposite sides.

The updated version of this piece of equipment is the Pilates ring. Like its predecessor, the Pilates ring is a basic circle with pads on either side. It's made in the correct diameter to hold arms or legs apart while performing the movements.

The Pilates Ring Was Originally Developed By Joseph Pilates

Developed by Joseph Pilates early in the 20th century, the Pilates system of exercise uses resistance training and stretching to tone the entire body.

Joseph Pilates spent the first part of his life as an exercise enthusiast and sportsman. In his teens, he became the model for fitness charts.

Joseph Pilates has the distinction of being the inventor of the magic circle.
While we often hear fitness circle, exercise ring, fitness ring, magic circle is still the preferred name in Pilates.
It is said that Joseph Pilates made the first magic circle from the ring on a keg. Now that should bring a little smile to your workout !

The Pilates Magic Circle

The exercise equipment developed by Joseph Pilates uses resistance to aid in the goals of what he called "Contrology". One of his devices was the circle - a simple piece with some padding on opposite sides. The updated version of this piece of equipment is the Pilates ring. Like its predecessor, the Pilates ring is a basic circle with pads on either side. It's made in the correct diameter to hold arms or legs apart while performing the movements.

Precise movement is a very important element of Pilates. The main goal of the regimen is to unite the mind and body into a controlled, graceful whole. While exercising, you concentrate on every precise move as well as on every breath. With the help of the Pilates ring, precise measurements can be maintained. It also provides an object to concentrate on.

The Pilates ring can be used to pinpoint the areas of the body that you want to work on as it takes some of the guesswork out of the equation. The modern Pilates ring makes use of modern materials to make the ring just a little less than hard and the grips keep it from slipping during the movements. Small in size, the Pilates ring can be packed and taken along on trips as there are no parts to set off metal detectors at airports.

Using stretching and balance to elongate muscles and improve posture and balance, using concentration to encourage body awareness and using breathing control to flood the blood with oxygen, Pilates gets results, and the Pilates ring is one way to get them.

Purchasing a Pilates Magic Circle

You can buy a Pilates Magic Circle in United States (USA).
I recommend the Stamina Pilates magic circle or the Balanced Body Pilates ring.

Stamina Pilates Magic Circle with Workout DVD :
This professional quality Magic Circle can be used alone as demonstrated in the accompanying DVD or video or added to your pilates mat exercise or to your pilates reformer workout.
This Pilates Magic Circle features form-molded grips to fit comfortably against your body with a non-porous, molded padding that resists moisture.
The Pilates Magic Circle was created by Joseph Pilates to be a versatile exercise aid you can use anywhere.
The soft rubber ring provides resistance for faster, more targeted toning, improving muscle strength throughout the body... especially in problem areas like the inner and outer thighs, upper arms, and chest.
The comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructional DVD or video demonstrates how the Pilates progressive fitness system, can help you sculpt and reshape your body the Pilates way !

• Pilates Magic Circle measure 14.75-inches in diameter
• Soft rubber ring fits comfortably against your body
• Made of professional grade, non-porous molded padding
• Easy-to-follow instructional DVD or video included
• Packs easily for traveling
• 90 day limited warranty on parts and materials
• Price List : 35 US Dollars
• Special Price : Contact us

If you live in Thailand and you want to purchase a Pilates Magic Circle, you are welcome to contact me : Geraldine - [tel] 08 9521 2616 - [email] stylepilates[at]gmail.com

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Recipe

Melon Smoothie

Cantaloupe and honeydew melon is blended with lime juice and sugar.

Preparation Time : 5 Minutes

Servings : 2

Ingredients :
- 1/8 cantaloupe - peeled, seeded and cubed
- 1/8 honeydew melon - peeled, seeded and cubed
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener

Directions :
In a blender, combine cantaloupe, honeydew, lime juice and sugar/sweetener.
Blend until smooth.
Pour into glasses and serve.

Nutrition Info - Amount Per Serving :
Calories          69
Total Fat         0.2 g
Cholesterol     0 mg
Sodium           12 mg
Total Carbs     18.2 g
Dietary Fiber  1.2 g
Protein            0.8g

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Exercise of the Month

Pilates :: Seated Legs with the Pilates Magic Circle

Seated Legs with the Pilates ring is the perfect Pilates exercise to tone the inner thighs and the abdominal muscles and lift the pelvic floor.
Seated Legs is done with the Magic Circle, or sometimes using a fitness ball.

Start Position

Sit on your sit bones, on the edge of a firm surface like a chair or Pilates reformer.
Put the magic circle between your legs, just above the knee.
Your spine is long and tall. Tail bone drops toward the floor as the top of your head reaches for the sky. Make sure that your shoulders are over your hips.
Legs are parallel and feet are flat on the floor with toes pointing forward.
Drop your shoulder blades down your back, and keep our ribs in, as you cross your arms in front of your chest with your elbows up.

Workout

Engage : Scoop your abdominals by pulling them in and up. Activate the pelvic floor.
Some people have a hard time getting in touch with the pelvic floor muscles.
Seated Legs, once you get started, will help you feel them but try to engage the pelvic floor before you begin.

Inhale and squeeze the Pilates circle and hold for three counts.

Exhale and use control as you slowly release the circle.

Repetitions : Do 6-8 repetitions. Keep your abdominals and pelvic floor lifted throughout.

Tips

Keep your shoulders dropped.
Breathe deeply into the sides and back.
Note that this exercise incorporates all the elements of a Kegel exercise, keeping the pelvic floor and abdominals engaged throughout, making it a perfect exercise for rebounding from pregnancy.

Benefits

Strengthens the abdominal muscles, the inner thighs and the pelvic floor.

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