What’s in a Circle?
What does the term ‘magic circle’ conjure up in your mind? Would it be magicians, witches and wizards? Alternatively, perhaps some kind of magical energy that transforms your body as you touch this sacred circle? Well, you are not alone. When I was first introduced to the not so ‘Magic’ Circle, it was exactly what came to my mind. I was in fact thinking, it is the last adjective I would use to describe the horrid thing! So what exactly is a magic circle in Pilates? Of course, we know Pilates is not just about being a form of fitness exercise. There is a huge element of mind body connection, thus offering a more holistic exercise system. So, you would ask, would this be the magical connection between the mind, body and spirit as you would work with the circle? Do you have to move in a circle, stand in a circular spot or even form some kind of circle in your workout? You would be glad to know it’s nothing of the sort. This metal or rubber ring, of about 30 cms in diameter has small pads on either side. It is used in the classical Pilates repertoire to create gentle to moderate resistance and to challenge particular muscle groups. Joseph Pilates first made the magic circle from the rings off the beer kegs, since it was robust and flexible, whilst sturdy enough not to break under applied force or pressure. According to Lolita San Miguel, my teacher, these copper rings would often cause a significant amount of discomfort for the users and many a time that people would bruise, or scratch / cut their skin through their use. Typical Joe! This Magic Circle is a highly versatile piece of Pilates apparatus and can assist the Pilates practitioner to tap into their deepest core muscles more effectively. Any person, of any age and any shape, can use it. Joe was a genius - he used it to target any body part e.g. upper/lower arms, chest, shoulders, thighs, calves, feet, to provide resistance, and as a result your muscles gain strength and endurance. So what are the main benefits? We cannot possibly mention all the benefits of the Magic Circle in one post, but just to give you a taster of what this incredible piece of metal is made of we want to list the following pluses:- It strengthens your core muscles, without the risk of jeopardising your back like many of the other muscle strengthening programs, such as weight lifting.
- It offers a low maximum resistance threshold and is used in many types of rehabilitation, across the world. Our local physiotherapists who practice at our host centres regularly use it when they create an exercise programme for their patients.
- It helps balance and alignment. The act of putting pressure on the ring from both sides would create a challenge for your balance. The pressure must be applied equally from both sides in order to be able to keep your posture and balance intact.
- The circle will help you find your core strength and guide you when you are out of alignment.
- It provides dynamic stability for your hips and shoulders, which in turn, would help alleviate shoulder and hip pain. It also teaches the client to release pressure from the neck when they are performing any arm movement, helping them find the arm to back connection.
15 January, 2020
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