Pilates with a hoop is an interesting alternative to standard Pilates training without any equipment. The "magic puck" introduces additional resistance during exercise, and therefore more strongly engages the muscles of the legs, arms, back and chest. Check what Pilates with a hoop is and why you should include exercises with this device in your training plan.

Pilates with a hoop - what is it?

The hoop is used to introduce additional resistance during exercise. Depending on where the device is placed (in the hands, between the thighs, knees, between the arm and the leg, etc.), a given muscle group works more intensively. For example, by holding the hoop between your knees with both legs up, you are strengthening your thigh and abdominal muscles. In turn, squeezing the disc in your hands, we develop arm and chest muscles. We can practice standing, sitting, lying on the back, stomach or on the side. In addition, each Pilates exercise with a hoop increases our overall endurance and strength, and also improves the condition of deep and paraspinal muscles.

Pilates with a hoopis one of the variants of the popular form of exercise by Joseph Pilates. This German athlete stood out for his creativity in creating new training devices. According to the legend, he created an exercise hoop using a round metal barrel element. He called his invention the "magic circle" (from the Englishmagic circle ).

To this day, pilates rings are made of flexible metal with a non-slip surface, but you can also get those made of flexible rubber or plastic. On the outside, the rings have special handles that make it easier to hold the disc between your legs or arms.

The standard diameter of a pilates circle is approximately 33 cm.

Pilates with a hoop - advantages

Exercising pilates using hoops can give you the following benefits:

  • increasing overall strength and endurance;
  • training of often neglected deep muscles, which are responsible for the stabilization of the figure and correct posture;
  • intensive strengthening of selected muscle groups (legs, arms, chest, buttocks, abdomen);
  • strengthening and making the paraspinal muscles more flexible;
  • improve balance and balance;
  • learn a new technique of pilates training and diversify standard exercises.

Pilates with a hoop - which hoop should you choose?

Usually, pilates rings are covered with a non-slip coating and have two handles on the outside that make it easy to hold the puck in the selected position. However, it is worth looking for a device with double grips on the outside and inside of the circle, as many Pilates exercises involve applying pressure to the disc from the inside.

It is important to check the resistance of the rim when purchasing. Metal wheels are more durable and less flexible, so they require more force during exercise. They are recommended for advanced people and those who want a very intensive training. Beginners can choose a disc made of flexible plastic or rubber - it will be less durable, but lighter and easier to work with.

It should be remembered that the price of the device is not insignificant - the higher it is, the better the quality of workmanship and the longer the life of the equipment. It's best to get a rim from a reputable manufacturer.

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