The Magic Circle is one of the original tools that Joseph Pilates created to help you find the connections to your center more easily. Like everything else in Pilates, the ring is secondary to the powerhouse and is never the main point of any exercise in which it is used. Consider the Magic Circle an eager assistant finding ways to help the powerhouse become more efficient on the job, thus accomplish greater results. If ever you find yourself creating tension outside the powerhouse (neck tension) or find yourself more aware of the ring than the center of your body, you are probably devoting too much of your strength to the ring and will miss out on some of the benefits of the exercise being taught. When used properly, you will find the ring a great tool for deepening your work.

Pilates Anytime instructor Kristi Cooper White provides a brief review of the Magic Circles used in the Pilates Anytime classes. It happens that all of our Magic Circles are made by the same manufacturer, Balanced Body, but other brands are also suggested as options.

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Ultra Fit Circle

Price approximately US $35
Outside diameter 15 inches

Pros
Instructional DVD included
Light weight ring encased in rubber for comfort - nice feature if magic circle slips from its position
Handles are easy to hang on to with hands or ankles
Easy to pack

Cons
If you have reason to buy several circles the inclusion of the DVD starts to seem like a lot of unnecessary packaging. It would be nice to have the option to not receive the DVD and perhaps lower the price

Alternative manufacturers for this style Stamina Pilates Magic Circle and Stott Pilates Fitness Circle

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Flex Ring Toner

Price approximately US $60
Outside diamter 14.5 inches

Pros
Durable Steel spring encased in non slip surface
Weighted Ring (5.4lbs) allows for increased challenge
Option to add handles for more comfort

Cons
Weight of ring can encourage improper muscle recruitment
Thin handles also made of steel and can be uncomfortable to some (flex ring handles available for an additional US $12 to increase comfort)

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Spring Circle

Price approximately US $70
Outside diamter 16.5 inches

Pros
Closest to Joseph Pilates original Magic Circle
It is a good weight - between the Ultra Fit and the Flex Ring toner
Options for different levels of resistance (2, 3 and 4 Spring)
The Wooden handles are padded well for comfort

Cons
If the ring slips from your grip the metal can be uncomfortable if it hits you.

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Kristi has also filmed a review of Pilates Mats.