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The Benefits of a Pilates Circle
A Pilates exercise program is an exercise routine that had its beginnings with a World War I nurse in England.
German born Joseph Pilates was a sickly child that suffered from asthma which prevented him from being active
during his childhood. Eventually he regained his strength and was able to participate in sports and become very
robust in his health.
Pilates is an exercise program that was developed for returning soldiers who were physically immobilized because of
injuries suffered during the war. Joseph H. Pilates developed this exercise program drawing from yoga and martial
arts.
Like any good exercise program, there is a resistance component built into the Pilates exercise regimen. There are
two methods of providing this resistance needed that are associated with the Pilates. The first form of resistance
is gained by using the body’s weight. The second form of resistance is through Pilates exercise equipment. One such
piece of equipment that provides this resistance is the Pilates circle.
Description of the Pilates Circle
The Pilates circle is in the shape of a large zero. There are a variety of materials that can be used to
manufacture the Pilates circle. Basically, however, the exterior of the circle is made from flexible plastic.
Within the circular plastic tubing is flexible sprung steel. This flexible steel provides enough tension so that
the user will benefit from the resistance that it provides.
In addition the Pilates circle is generally constructed with handles that provide easy grasp of the circle when
conducting the exercises.
How it is Used
The Pilates circle is designed to be easily used. This allows for the Pilates participant to be seated, standing or
reclining. Because of the ease of use, the individual can use this resistance piece of equipment when lying on
their back, stomach or on either side of the body. The resistance is provided by exerting pressure on the outside
of the ring inward or on the inside of the ring outward.
Various parts of the body can benefit from the Pilates circle. For example, if placed between the legs, the legs
can be pushed together. This resistance can benefit the leg muscles as well as the muscles of the abdomen. Or, by
grasping both handles, the Pilates circle can be push inward. This resistance will strengthen the muscles of the
chest.
Effects on the Body
There are many positive effects that will be experienced by the body when using the Pilates circle. Those
particular benefits include the toning of the body’s muscles such as found in the upper arms, muscles of the thighs
and chest muscles.
In addition, in keeping with the philosophy of Pilates, a connection will be made to other parts of the body. Those
connections include the connectivity with the mind and the nervous system.
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