If you have been doing Mat Pilates for a while and have perfected your form, you may be ready to add some props to your practice. The Pilates Ring is an excellent aid to increase the intensity of your workout.  The ring or magic circle as it is also called is made from lightweight, flexible metal or plastic.

The ring typically has foam padding on the sides for handgrips or ankles to press against. Pilates rings are available in different sizes to accommodate different fitness levels and strengths. The circles come in different sizes beginning at 10" and going up to 14" and different resistance levels to suit your needs. This aid can be used to tone and strengthen arms, legs, core and overall body. The following is a description of how to use the Pilates Ring: Begin always by warming up the body by doing some light cardio or gentle movements before you start.  By warming up you are giving yourself the best chance of eliminating injury.  Be sure you know how to use the Magic Circle before you start a program.

Lay in a supine or face up position with knees bent just slightly and feet gently on the floor. The Pilates Ring should be placed and held in position between the knees with the arms gently laying flat on the floor at your sides.  The spine should be in neutral position which means you are comfortable.  Activate the core muscles and glutes and breathe deeply as you gently press the knees together and squeeze the ring.  Exhale as you squeeze, inhale as you release. Repeat this exercise for a minimum of ten repetitions or as many as you can.

Another exercise using the Ring is to sit with your legs extended as well as apart and your spine long. Place the ring between the legs in a standing position. Place both hands on the ring and gently press down activating the abdominals and shoulders. Repeat the exercise for a minimum of ten repetitions or as many as you can.

To focus on the hip area begin by laying on your side and slightly bend the knees to keep your balance. Use your arm that's laying on the mat as a pillow for your head.  Activate your core muscles and straighten the body. Press the ring between the ankles and lift the legs up and down. You can also secure the ring on the floor with the upper leg and bring the lower leg through the ring. Hold the leg straight as you draw circle inside the ring.

Want to work the arms? You can use the pilates ring for a great biceps workout. Hold the ring on your shoulder and place one hand on the top of it. Press down performing compressions using control.