Pilates is a great way to improve your flexibility and strengthen your muscles. But what if there was a way to get even more out of your pilates routine? A pilates ring might be just the thing to take your exercise to the next level. Today, the team at Pilates Fit Studio is here with this quick guide on how to use a pilates ring.
What Is a Pilates Ring?
A pilates ring is a special piece of equipment that adds resistance during pilates stretches and exercises. A pilates ring consists of a circular hollow ring, typically made of a flexible plastic. Most pilates rings have padded handles on the sides to grip. Another name for a pilates ring is a magic circle.
Pushing the circle together creates resistance, which can enhance your stretches and pilates exercises. The flexible ring can deform under pressure and then return to its original shape when you let go. You can think of a pilates ring like a set of resistance bands that are more rigid.
How Do I Use a Pilates Ring?
Using a pilates ring is very simple: Hold it between the muscle groups you want to exercise, squeeze, and release. The simplicity of the pilates ring means you can use it for several different types of exercises, from squats and upper body to legs and core.
For example, placing the ring between your legs and squeezing it works your thigh muscles and glutes. You can also hold the ring between your thighs and lift your torso to target core muscles. Basically, a Pilates ring gives you a point of resistance so you can train muscle endurance for poses and stretches.
Pilates with a ring is more intense than without, so you should start slowly when incorporating one into your exercise routine. Progressing too quickly with a ring can cause injury and unnecessary muscle strain.
30 Minute Pilates Workout with a Pilates Ring (Magic Circle)
Do you want to try a Pilates Ring workout? Join Erica Walters, the owner of Pilates Fit Studio and Level 3 Certified Teacher, for this toning and strength-building workout with Magic Circle.
Benefits of Using a Pilates Ring
A pilates ring can intensify your workout and enhance your physical benefits. Below are just a few of the benefits of using a ring for your pilates exercises.
Better Balance
Pilates rings require you to apply constant tension via your muscles. The flexible resistance targets the stabilizing muscles in your arms, core, and legs, increasing your balance and muscle endurance. Ring exercises force you to constantly engage muscle groups that contribute to proper walking, posture, and running.
More Resistance in Various Exercises
Pilates rings also provide firm resistance, engaging your muscles and increasing your strength. Adding a pilates ring is somewhat like adding more weight with dumbbell exercises—you work your muscles harder so they get stronger, faster. If you are looking to bulk up, doing pilates with a ring can help you maximize muscle gain.
Better Heart Health
Since pilates exercises increase resistance, they make your heart work harder during workout routines. The increased activity is good for your endurance and cardiovascular health. Incorporating regular ring usage into your pilates exercise can set you up for good heart health.
Choosing a Pilates Ring for Home Use
If you would like to supplement your in-studio Pilates sessions with at-home workouts then the Pilates ring is one of the best props that you can purchase for home use. It is fairly inexpensive, doesn’t take up much space and is easy to use. Here are 3 tips to consider when choosing the best Pilates ring for home use:
- Material: Classical Pilates ring is made of metal rings, two for light, three for medium, and four for heavy. These rings offer the most longevity. Many modern Pilates rings available on the market are made out of flexible plastic. As long as you choose a quality manufacturer, the plastic ring will last you a long time and make your muscles burn (that’s why many Pilates teachers and students refer to them as the Ring of Fire!) High-quality plastic rings are our top recommendations for at-home Pilates workouts (e.g. Magic Circle by GRATZ)
- Size: The traditional Pilates ring is 13-14 inches in diameter. You can sometimes find larger and smaller rings available as well. We recommend choosing the standard size of the ring because it offers the most versatility for your workouts.
- Handles: Choose padded handles for extra comfort during your workouts.
Pilates Instruction in Louisville
Pilates Fit Studio is the area’s go-to choice for pilates instruction and certification. If you are looking to make a healthy change in your life, why not start with pilates lessons? Our dedicated team of specialists strives to create targeted fitness programs for people of all athletic abilities. We offer custom workouts, private lessons, and group classes.
Are you interested in booking a Pilates session at our Pilates studio in Louisville, KY? Contact us online or call today at (502) 797-5068 to book an appointment and discuss pilates ring exercises!
