The Magic Circle
The Pilates magic circle, also known as a Pilates ring, is a highly versatile and effective tool for enhancing workouts. Its benefits stem from its ability to add resistance, support, and alignment to the body. Its great for improving strength, flexibility!
I introduced the Magic Circle to Public Group classes within January and the feedback was really positive! I have added the exercises we did to my APP for those that would like to revisit at home. The above sequence can be found under the section ‘Pilates with Props’.
Let’s look at the Benefits:
1. Adds Resistance
The magic circle provides moderate resistance, which engages muscles more deeply during exercises.
It’s ideal for targeting smaller, often underutilized muscles, such as the inner and outer thighs, arms, and core.
2. Improves Muscle Tone
The resistance helps to tone and sculpt muscles, especially in areas that are hard to target with other equipment, like the inner thighs or triceps.
3. Enhances Core Stability
Many exercises with the magic circle require stabilization, which activates the core muscles.
It helps improve posture and overall body alignment by promoting a strong and stable core.
4. Encourages Proper Alignment
The circle provides tactile feedback, making it easier to maintain proper form and alignment during exercises.
For example, squeezing the ring evenly ensures balanced engagement of muscles.
5. Versatility
The magic circle can be used for a wide range of exercises, from upper-body strengthening to lower-body toning and even stretching.
It's suitable for all fitness levels, as you can adjust the intensity of your workout based on how much pressure you apply.
6. Increases Mind-Body Connection
The magic circle requires focus and control to use effectively, enhancing the mind-body connection central to Pilates.
The need to maintain consistent pressure encourages mindfulness in movement.
7. Supports Rehabilitation
It’s gentle enough for use in rehabilitation settings, helping to rebuild strength and flexibility after an injury.
Provides support for joints while promoting gradual muscle engagement.
Getting Creative!
One of my favourite things to do is design- whether it be for the home -(interior wise) or for my store through ‘Bags of Love’. My latest creation is for my ‘Go With the Flow Retreat’- a support cushion for Side Series work and kneeling exercises-depicting images of the Royal William Yard and Studio. Super excited for March and for the next branch of the Business to grow!
GO WITH THE FLOW 2025
Still two spaces left for the Retreat- bookings close at the end of February.
The next Social
Following on from my last Blog post- a change of plan for venue. The new proposed restaurant is Berro Lounge in Didcot on 21st March at 7pm. Please see link below for Menus if interested. I’ll be collecting deposits (£5 cash)in classes up to cut off date of 13th February in order to secure the table. Be lovely to see you all outside of Pilates if you fancy it!
Circuit Training in August
Each Summer in August- Public classes are suspended and smaller classes run in my home Studio. This coming year I would like to offer Subscribers the opportunity of trialling the ‘Circuit Training sessions’ instead of Classic Mat.
If the interest is there then I’ll run on Monday/Tuesday and Wednesday evenings as well as Wednesday mornings. To help me plan ahead if you could register your interest below and I’ll get back to you with more information. Spaces will be limited so will be on a first come first served basis.
This month I want to share with you an episode from Jay Shetty’s podcast, where he interviews another one of my favourite motivational speakers- Mel Robbins.
Its all about control. What’s in your control and what’s not.
Mel discusses her ‘Let Them Theory’ in this episode. It is such a great mindset tool that before now I wasn’t aware of. It is designed to help listeners take control of their thoughts, actions and emotions while letting go of what they cannot control. It really is a fascinating listen for those that feel this might be of interest…
Class Update
Monday Studio 121/Circuit Training- Fully booked for February
Tuesday Studio 121 classes- Fully booked for February
Tuesday Evening at Didcot Civic Hall - 2 spaces
Wednesday Morning at Didcot Civic Hall - 1 space
Wednesday Evening at Fleet Meadow in Didcot -3 spaces
Thursday Morning Circuit Training- Fully booked for February
Thursday Evening at All Saints Youth & Community Hall - 3 spaces
Wishing All a fab February ahead!