How great does a “Magic Circle” sound? It sounds like something you can buy, sit inside and make wishes come true! Almost… a Pilates Magic Circle, or sometimes also known as a Pilates exercise ring or a Pilates fitness circle, was a concept developed by Joseph Pilates, the well known creator of Pilates exercises.

A Pilates Magic Circle is used as a resistance ring, which helps target specific areas of the body to enable better targeted toning.  A Pilates Magic Circle is a ring about 13inches in diameter, made from a flexible material like rubber or metal. They have moulded pads on either side that fit snugly against your body to prevent abrasion. The Pilates Magic Circle can be used completely on its own on, or you can sit on a Pilates mat, or use it in conjunction with with many other Pilates equipment like the Pilates Ball or the Pilates Machines.

There are a currently a number of models on the market, so what exactly do you need to look for to buy a quality Pilates Magic Circle?

A flexible metal Pilates ring is going to be much more durable than the rubber versions. However they are generally more expensive, so you will probably only see them used in a professional Pilates studio. For home use however and especially for taking travelling, a rubber ring is sufficient and will last a long time being used daily. Also, it is a bonus if you have an exercise ring that has pads that you can place on the inside and outside. This will enable you to perform a greater range of exercises. A Pilates Magic Circles isn’t a complicated piece of equipment, however be sure to buy a recommended brand like Stamina or Stott, to ensure a quality construction.