Isotonic ring for Pilates - choice of exercise equipment, set of exercises

One of the many benefits of Pilates is its versatility. Effective and safe exercises can be selected for any different people with different levels of physical development, their own characteristics and problems. And the presence of different objects and projectiles only expands the possibilities of this technique. And the Pilates ring is one of the most interesting and useful equipment.

Pilates ring - what is it and why is it needed?

The simulator is like a small hoop (diameter from 30 to 40 cm). There are two small stops at the edges that serve as handles. Manufacturing materials: metal base, polyvinyl chloride, rubber.

Due to the fact that the projectile is made of bendable metal, it has ductility and at the same time rigidity. The main property of the simulator is the creation of uniform tension in the muscles (isotonia). Therefore, its second name is isotonic ring for Pilates.

Video exercise No. 6: toning the pelvic muscles

Difficulty: level 2

Muscles worked: abdominals

Doing the exercise. Starting position: lying on the mat, lift your legs off the floor and stretch them up. Place the Pilates ring between your legs at calf level and extend your arms along the floor with your palms facing the mat for better support. Squeeze the Pilates ring with your feet, then relax.

Breathing: Inhale when you are in a relaxed position and exhale when you squeeze the Pilates ring.

Reps: 2-3 sets of 15 reps depending on fitness level, with 30 seconds rest between sets.

Advantages and disadvantages of ring training

Despite its simple design, the projectile allows you to achieve the following positive aspects:

• Treatment of problem areas where cellulite appears (hips, arms, waist).
• Strengthening large muscles, as well as small stabilizer muscles.
• Prevention of curvature in the back, improvement of posture, pain relief.
• Effective weight loss (in combination with other gymnastics exercises).
• Body lift without the threat of pumping up excess muscle volume and ruining your figure.
• Quick restoration of physical condition after injuries, sprains, surgeries.
• Comprehensive body training without compression loads on the spine and joints.
• Accessibility for older people and athletes with musculoskeletal injuries.

The disadvantages include the unsuitability of the simulator for strength training and building large muscle volumes.

Yes, an isotonic ring will not help you get round buttocks. But that’s not what Pilates was created for. If you do such gymnastics, it means that your goals are a slim, flexible body and good health, and not bulky muscles.

Necessary equipment

The following types of equipment may be useful for conducting classes at home:

1. The isotonic ring “Pilates” of medium resistance helps to gain harmony. The exercises contain elements of yoga, callanetics, and breathing exercises. Smooth, leisurely movements are accompanied by tension, due to which a large consumption of calories is achieved.
2. A hoop with a massage coating in the form of soft balls or spikes is used to shape the waist and hips. Efficiency increases when combined with proper nutrition. Exercises with a hula hoop have a massage effect aimed at removing subcutaneous fat.
3. A gymnastic ball is used to perform special therapeutic exercises aimed at correcting posture and stretching muscles. Selected by height: when sitting on the ball, the position of the hips should be parallel to the floor.
4. The step platform puts increased stress on the knee and hip joints. Effectively used for weight loss, since performing exercises takes a lot of energy. You can use dumbbells to increase the load.
5. A floor-mounted rotating disc helps train the muscles of the legs, hips, and abdominals. Using the simulator accelerates the burning of fat cells in subcutaneous deposits and gives the figure a beautiful relief shape.
6. The ab roller effectively uses several muscle groups during training: back, arms, legs, abs. Regular use gives good results.
7. Jumping rope promotes weight loss due to rhythmic movements and high energy consumption. Regular exercise provides efficiency equivalent to cycling, swimming in the pool, or jogging.
8. The core board develops balance and coordination. Using equipment uses several muscle groups at the same time and develops flexibility. During training, a lot of energy is expended, which contributes to the rapid burning of calories. Exercises on the board improve the functioning of the vestibular apparatus and develop a sense of balance.
9. The gymnastic stick is simple in shape and multifunctional in use. Used to perform strength exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the upper and lower parts of the body.
10. A trampoline takes up more space than other sports equipment. However, exercise on it brings both physical and moral benefits. Systematic exercises help the lungs increase in volume, which makes breathing easier and has a positive effect on blood circulation. The tissues are saturated with oxygen, and the intensity of the jumps charges you with energy and good mood.

Pilates hoop exercises

The ring can bend inward and extend outward, creating useful resistance. This functionality allows the trainer to be used in many elements. We offer a set of exercises with an isotonic ring, aimed at working out the main muscle groups.

For arms and shoulders

Exercises:

• Squeezing the ring (working the biceps) . Stand up straight. Press the end of the Pilates hoop against your sternum so that it is perpendicular to your body. Hold the ring with one hand. Exhale and bend your elbow, thereby pressing on the projectile. At the extreme point of compression, hold for a second, then inhale and smoothly straighten the limb. Try to move only your forearm. The shoulder itself should remain motionless.
• Standing arm extensions (working the triceps) . Stand up straight, straighten your back. Place the isotonic ring between your palms. At the same time, do not clench your fists, keep your hands straightened. Lift the projectile with your head and squeeze it slightly so that the arm muscles are slightly tense. Inhale and move the ring behind your head. The shoulders remain motionless, only the forearms and the apparatus are lowered. Exhale, smoothly straighten your elbows.
• Overhead compressions (working the deltoids) . Stand up straight. Place an isotonic hoop between your palms, but do not clench your fists. Raise your arms above your head and bend your elbows slightly. Fix this position of the upper limbs. Exhale and squeeze the ring. At the extreme point, hold for a second, then inhale and open your palms. Try to squeeze the machine by tensing the deltoid muscles.

For chest and back

Exercises:

• Standing compressions (working the pectoral muscles) . Straighten up, place the isotonic ring between your palms and raise your arms in front of you. Don't clench your fists, keep your hands straight. Exhale and simultaneously press your palms onto the machine. At the extreme point of compression, hold for 1-2 seconds. After this, inhale and gently raise your arms to the starting position. While pressing, try to tense your pectoral muscles strongly.
• Hyperextension (working the back extensors) . Lie on the floor, on your stomach. Straighten your arms forward and place your palms on the Pilates ring, which you place perpendicular to the floor. Exhale, bend at the waist, lift your body. Hold for a second, then inhale and slowly lower your chest. When performing hyperextensions, use the ring as a fulcrum for your arms. This will allow you to lift your body a little higher, which will improve the overall effectiveness of the exercise.
• Seated U-turns (working the latissimus dorsi muscles) . Sit cross-legged. Straighten your spine. Place the Pilates ring between your palms, but do not clench your hands into fists. Extend your arms in front of you and lightly squeeze the projectile. While holding the resistance of the machine, exhale and smoothly turn your body to the right. At the same time, strongly squeeze the latissimus muscle on the right. Pause for a second at the extreme point, then inhale slowly return to the starting position and repeat the turn to the left.

For thighs and buttocks

Exercises:

• Bringing the knees together (working the inner thighs) . Sit on the edge of a chair or bench. Bring your feet together. Place an isotonic ring between the knee joints. Place your arms loosely at your sides or press your palms against your upper thighs. Exhale and at the same time press your knees onto the projectile. At the extreme point of compression, hold for a couple of seconds, then inhale and smoothly return to the starting position.
• Lying flyes (working the outer thighs) . Lie on your back. Extend your arms out to the sides and press your palms into the floor for balance. Place your feet inside the isotonic ring. Place the projectile itself just above the knee joints. Straighten your lower limbs at an angle of 75–80° and point your toes toward the ceiling. While holding the ring on your hips, exhale and spread your legs out to the sides. Freeze for 1-2 seconds, then inhale and return to the starting position.
• Bridge with a hoop (complex exercise for the hips and buttocks) . Lie on your back. Bend your legs and pull your heels closer to you. Place your feet slightly wider than your pelvis. Place a Pilates ring between your knee joints and lift your pelvis 15–20 cm from the floor. While maintaining this body position, exhale and squeeze the apparatus. Hold for a couple of seconds, then inhale and gently open your knees. If you do everything correctly, you will feel a lot of tension in your buttocks and thighs.

For the abdominals

Exercises:

• Leg stretching through the ring (working the rectus abdominis muscle) . Lie on your back on the floor. Take an isotonic hoop in your hands and move it behind your head. Close your heels and lift them at an angle of 40–45°. With an exhalation, bring your hands with the projectile to the level of the groin. At the same time, bend your legs, push them inside the ring and straighten them completely at an angle of 45°. With an inhalation, pull your legs back out of the hoop, straighten them at an angle, and lower your arms to the starting position. Do the exercise vigorously.
• Lateral crunches (working the oblique muscles) . Lower your back to the floor. Bend your knees and bring your heels closer to you. Take the ring in your hands and lift it above your chest. Do not clench your hands into fists. Apply gentle pressure with your palms to create slight resistance. Exhale, twist to the right and squeeze the oblique muscles on the right side. Inhale and lower yourself to the starting position. Repeat twisting to the left.
• Leg rotations with a hoop (complex exercise for the abdominal muscles). Get down on your back. Place your palms behind your head and clasp your hands. Place a Pilates ring between your ankles, apply gentle pressure, and straighten your legs. Raise your lower limbs and begin to rotate them clockwise. Make smooth movements, “drawing” circles with a diameter of 30–40 centimeters in the air. Perform the exercise in both directions.

For each proposed element, do 3 sets of 12–15 repetitions. We recommend focusing on the muscles being worked. This will allow you to use muscle fibers more efficiently.

If you practice on your own at home, divide the exercises presented into two sessions and conduct such training every other day. Within two to three weeks you will feel how your body muscles have tightened.

basic information

With the help of such equipment you can provide additional resistance. This sports equipment will provide an opportunity to strengthen all the muscles of the body. Training with it will help improve your posture and strengthen your abs.

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Main characteristics

Such a ring is often called isotonic. The elasticity of the material allows it to be bent. But at the same time, it has enough rigidity that it is suitable for muscle training. The covering of the equipment prevents it from slipping out of your hands. The ring has special handles on both sides to make it easy to grip. Their design may differ for different models.

Products come in two diameters: 35 or 38 centimeters. This makes it possible to use them for both arms and legs. Women usually purchase a smaller diameter; for men, 38-centimeter fitness equipment is more suitable.

Principle of operation

Since the Pilates ring works in tension and compression, there are many options for using it. Usually it needs to be held in your hands. But you can also use it as a fulcrum, resting against the surface of the floor or wall.

Other options are also possible when it is placed between the knees, ankles or elbows. Such training will be more productive, as the load on the muscles increases. With the help of such a projectile you can work on problem areas:

• gluteal muscles;
• external and internal surface of the thigh;
• upper limbs;
• muscles of the back and chest;
• ankles.

With the help of such equipment, women have the opportunity to make their muscles more toned, restore their tone, but not increase their volume.

How to choose a Pilates ring

Before purchasing, be sure to make sure that the handles are tightly fixed to the hoop and do not slip. Otherwise, you will not be able to perform most exercises well.

The second important point is the load created by the simulator. Rings are produced with varying degrees of resistance. This is necessary to reach athletes of all levels of development. If you are a beginner, ask your salesperson to select an isotonic ring with minimal resistance.

Popular models and approximate prices:

• Svarog SVYP-300 (700 RUR);
• StarFit FA-402 (700 RUR);
• Yamaguchi Ring Fit (RUR 1,900);
• Torres YL5004 (RUR 530);
• Fittools FT-Pilates-Ring (900 RUR);
• Atemi APR02 (700 RUR).

We recommend buying a Pilates ring in sports stores, where you can evaluate the quality of workmanship and get advice from the seller. Exercise machines can also be purchased on specialized websites or online trading platforms.

Improving your legs

Beautiful legs are the dream of many. You want to highlight them with a seductive miniskirt or decorate them with stockings. But in order to make all your desires come true, you need to put them in order. Only slim people look beautiful. Overweight people already spoil the effect. So let's make them perfect.

• Lie on the floor with your back down. Bend your knees, plant your feet and lift your hips as much as possible. At this time, the device should already be between the zones being worked on. Squeeze your lower back and then lower yourself smoothly.
• Roll onto your side and place the palm of your upper hand on the surface. Place the product between your ankles so that you can press on it with your lower limb in an attempt to lift both.

Remember that it is important to listen to your own feelings. You can independently determine the pace that will not harm your health.

The best manufacturers

To enjoy fitness, you should purchase equipment from trusted manufacturers. Petty savings lead to inefficient spending of funds.

Interesting! Even Baron Rothschild, the head of the richest banking house in Europe, considered himself not rich enough to buy cheap goods.

In addition, cheap Chinese crafts do not provide safety for the athlete. Therefore, you should purchase gymnastic equipment from the best manufacturers. Let's get to know them better.

Midzumi

Japanese company. On the Russian market since 2013. Buyers highly value the popular models of children's sports complexes for the home, in addition to which the company produces gymnastic rings. Sports equipment for children should ensure the safety of young athletes. Midzumi products are proof of this. In addition, the company constantly pleases customers by releasing designer new items for kids.

Indigo

Sports goods from China, decent quality at an affordable price.

Kettler

German brand. The popularity of Kettler strength training models is due to many years of producing impeccable products. The company began its activities in 1949 as a manufacturer of goods for children. Today it is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of fitness products.

Original FitTools

Russian brand with workshops in China. Produces popular products for fans of fitness, crossfit, aerobics, and yoga. Affordable products are not inferior to the quality of European brands.

Live UP

Brand from Ukraine. Direction of activity - production of high quality sports equipment and exercise equipment at an affordable price. The company's products are enjoyed by boxers, gymnasts, and people interested in Yoga and fitness.

Perfetto Sport

Company from Palermo (Italy). Founded by Andrea Giannini. Initially, it was engaged in the production of children's sports complexes. Today, many athletes enjoy performing exercises on trampolines, mats and Perfetto Sport exercise equipment.

Workout

Russian company. Founded at the end of 2010 as an online store selling sporting goods. Over time, the company organized its own production of some samples, which are in constant demand among adherents of a healthy lifestyle. The quality is decent, the prices are moderate.

KMS

Russian brand. Wooden children's gymnastic rings produced by him are of decent quality and affordable price; they are suitable as additional equipment for any children's sports complex.

Body-Solid

One of the world's largest manufacturers of exercise equipment and sports equipment, headquartered in Chicago (Illinois, USA). High quality at a solid price.

The list can be continued for quite a long time. Which brand of rings is best to buy is up to you to decide. Before purchasing, it is advisable to carefully read the description of the product, listen to the advice and recommendations of experienced users, sellers and consultants of sporting goods. Before making a final decision, it is advisable to practice on wooden and plastic samples in order to choose between metal and plastic, and at the same time get an idea of ​​the price.

Useful tips

To get the maximum benefit from using an isotonic ring, you need to follow these helpful recommendations:

1. The first ring should not be too tight; it is better to take a lightweight one and only then purchase one with greater rigidity.
2. At first, it is better to do the minimum number of repetitions with the apparatus and only then increase it.
3. Classes should be carried out regularly so that the muscles are used for the maximum time.
4. Before training, it is important to do a good warm-up, not only thoroughly warming up the muscles, but also stretching them.

As can be seen from all of the above, the Pilates ring is quite a useful device.
The main thing is to use it correctly, and then positive results will not be long in coming. Sports and fitness Pilates Sports equipment Types of fitness

Efficiency

By systematically doing home workouts, you can regulate your weight and train a specific muscle group. By performing a set of 10-15 exercises daily, you can get rid of 3 to 7 kg in a week. And if you supplement your exercise with a balanced diet, the results will be even better. The first month of training lays the foundation for further weight loss, because physical activity triggers the body to burn calories and, as a result, accelerate the breakdown of fat cells.

A month of home fitness will help you become 6-11 kg lighter.

This is a good result considering the accompanying benefits:

1. The cardiovascular system is restored.
2. Breathing improves.
3. Metabolism is normalized.
4. Increases body endurance.

In addition, daily exercise has a beneficial effect on your psycho-emotional mood.

Your health is our goal

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Complex for beautiful abs and slim waist

To see the effect of using a Pilates ring, you need to do abdominal exercises daily. Then after three weeks you will notice visible results. In addition to regularity, it is important to breathe correctly. At the end of the article you will find video material that will help you use the simulator correctly.

Holding a Pilates ring in a lying position between your knees will lift your upper back. In this case, the arms are located along the body. This method can be called weighting the press. During exercise, the body needs to linger at the highest point and freeze.

Rating of quality gymnastic rings

Since our review covers wooden and plastic shells, we will split it into two parts.

High-quality gymnastic rings made of plastic

Midzumi

Children's version from a Japanese manufacturer. Strictly speaking, these cannot be called rings. But for the complex physical development of a child, the model is quite suitable. A set of exercises consisting of squats, lunges and pull-ups is performed on these products in the same way as on full-fledged rings. The grip size (you can’t call it a diameter) is 116 cm. Made of plastic.

The set includes two-meter cords of 10 mm thickness. There are no locks for the cords, so the owner will have to master the art of tying sea knots. The permissible load should not exceed 100 kg. Consequently, classes with these devices are available not only to children, but also to adults who are not burdened with excess weight. The average cost of a set is 380 rubles.

gymnastic rings Midzumi

Advantages:

• durable plastic;
• cords included;
• maximum user weight up to 100 kg;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• small internal size.

Live Up

Universal products from a popular Ukrainian brand. Suitable for gyms and outdoor areas. Made from impact-resistant ABS plastic, they can easily withstand temperature changes. Suitable for training professional athletes and fitness classes. The internal diameter of the projectile is 180 mm, the cross-section is 28 mm, in full compliance with the requirements of the Olympic standard. Sold complete with reinforced nylon hangers and spring locks. The average cost will be 1,790 rubles.

gymnastic rings Live Up

Advantages:

• standard sizes;
• nice yellow color;
• durable plastic;
• durable straps and locks;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• Small cross-section for users with wide palms.

Workout K1

A black pair made of durable ABS plastic from a Russian brand, made in China. Equally suitable for gyms and courtyards, professional gymnasts and amateurs. Standard dimensions: internal diameter - 180 mm, grip cross-section - 28 mm. They withstand the vagaries of the weather perfectly: snow, rain, summer heat and ultraviolet rays. The average cost per pair is 2,700 rubles. The company has developed and launched the production of reinforced nylon belts and spring locks for them. They are purchased separately, at a price of 1100 rubles per pair.

gymnastic rings Workout K1

Advantages:

• durable plastic;
• standard Olympic sizes;
• suitable for professionals and amateurs;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• Suspension straps are not included.

CrossFit Indigo 97654 IR B

Set from a Russian brand. The dimensions and cross-section meet the requirements of the Olympic Committee. The internal diameter is 180 mm, cross-section is 28 mm. The material for manufacturing was durable ABS plastic, capable of operating in an environment with temperatures ranging from -40°C to +90°C. Equally good for professional gymnasts and CrossFit practitioners and those who simply want to stay in good shape. Capable of withstanding loads up to 90 kg. They are equipped with nylon hangers with spring locks. The average cost of a set is 2600 rubles.

gymnastic rings Crossfit Indigo 97654 IR B

Advantages:

• durable non-slip material;
• perform well on street venues;
• strong slings, high-quality locks;
• sling length 6 meters.

Flaws:

• not identified.

UFC Ultimate Training

The kit from a well-known American brand gets the best reviews in this section of the review. The product dimensions are standard: internal diameter 180 mm, cross-section 22.5 mm. Material – ABS plastic. Includes reinforced nylon belts, 5 m long, 30.8 mm wide. The average cost is 3390 rubles.

gymnastic rings UFC Ultimate Training

Advantages:

• quality material;
• reinforced belts;
• secure locks.

Flaws:

• The grip cross section is not large enough.

High-quality gymnastic rings made of wood

KMS-Sport

Budget wooden products from the Russian brand KMS. Coated with varnish to protect against precipitation, if used in an open area. This model is intended for use as additional equipment for children's sports complexes. Designed to work with a maximum weight of up to 50 kg. Equipped with ropes for hanging on the DSC crossbar. There are no spring locks. The ropes are secured with marine knots. The average cost does not exceed 370 rubles.

gymnastic rings KMS-Sport

Advantages:

• wooden;
• inexpensive;
• Rope hangers included.

Flaws:

• intended for children only;
• the varnish coating is short-lived;
• hangers without locks do not provide reliable fastening to the crossbar.

Proxima PRG – 2403 WD

Set of wooden rings made in Taiwan. The internal diameter is standard, 180 mm. The 30mm section is more comfortable to grip than rubber products. The surface is carefully polished and does not require the application of protective coatings. The kit is complemented by five-meter nylon slings with spring locks. The average cost is 1,490 rubles.

gymnastic rings Proxima PRG – 2403 WD

Advantages:

• universal size;
• suitable for gymnastics and fitness;
• long and strong belts with reliable locks;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Worlout K2 Super Monster

A set made of wood, from a Russian brand already known to us. The sizes differ slightly from the Olympic standard. With an internal diameter of 170 mm, the external diameter is 250 mm. Simple calculations will show that the cross-section of the ring is 40mm. These are the thickest rings of all those presented in the review. They are too wide for classical gymnastics training. But they are perfect for CrossFit and fitness enthusiasts. A large support area provides more comfortable conditions for performing exercises. The average price is 1800 rubles, which at first glance is quite affordable. However, please note that the package does not include hangers.

gymnastic rings Worlout K2 Super Monster

Advantages:

• high quality material;
• fine surface grinding;
• large section;
• comfortable grip.

Flaws:

• There are no hangers included.

Sproots SPR Rings

Kit from a Russian manufacturer. The cross-section of birch rings is 32 mm. Convenient size for individual training of CrossFit followers. Suitable for training in the gym and at home. Simple and reliable fastening of the hangers allows you to use the equipment in open courtyard areas, provided they are removed at the end of the workout. The set includes durable nylon 4-meter belts, 40mm wide, with carabiners. The average cost of a set is 1870 rubles. According to gymnasts, it is excellent value for money.

gymnastic rings Sproots SPR Rings[

Advantages:

• large section;
• universal for the hall and home.

Flaws:

• No.