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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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