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Best Pilates Rings
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
The materials come into play not just for longevity but also for resistance.
There really is not an extensive list of features to look out for when it comes to buying a the best pilates ring. But, without question, one of the most important ones is the actual materials that are used for construction. And, this all starts with the main material. Now, from model to model, this can be a different material. For example, some will be made of metal, others of rubber, and some with either plastic or fiberglass. Each material has its own properties and will provide differing levels of stiffness and performance. Then again, the designer can also add more or less resistance to make the workout more strenuous or easier.
But, which material is best? Well, flexible metal and fiberglass are really good and can provide a suitable amount of resistance for those looking for a muscular challenge. As for rubber, these models tend to be on the softer side and may not provide the level of stiffness that some of you desire. It really comes down to your skill level and what you feel comfortable doing, though. Everyone’s body is different so simply invest in the model that you think will be suitable for your body’s needs.
Comfort
This is huge. If the ring digs into your skin and does not have suitable padding, it will be unbearable.
This right here can make or break your purchase and make or break your entire experience with a pilates magic circle. Yes, finding the right resistance level is critically important but what good is it if the circle itself digs into your skin and is painfully uncomfortable? The answer is pretty much worthless as no one should endure a painful exercise (as that defeats the purpose of working out). Here is the good news; it is not too hard to find a model that offers optimal comfortability.
The reason that statement can be made is that you really just need to look for pads on the inside and the outside. Most models will be equipped with EVA foam pads that will be engineered on the inside and the outside. With the foam in the interior of the magic circle, it allows you to comfortability perform other exercises. As for EVA foam, this is one of the best materials to look for as it offers incredible benefits such as impact absorption, thermal insulation properties, and supreme comfort.
Portability
While most models will naturally be portable, you can still look out for a carrying bag for convenience.
Most of the time, they measure 14 inches and are not cumbersome by any means. They also tend to lay flat and will also not weigh much at all. So, you now may be asking yourself, what is the point of making this a main buying consideration if all models are portable, in the first place.
You know, that is a fair assessment and don’t you worry a bit, there is a reason. This reason is solely to look for a carrying gym backpack. Now, this may not be an accessory that will end up defining your purchase. Yet, you may not own a personalized carrying bag and may not want to buy one separately. So, consider it a packaged deal when a seller includes their high-quality carrying pouch with their magic circle. Traveling with it in this manner will also ensure that it does not accidentally get damaged.
Accessories
There are a few key accessories to look out for when you are buying a magic circle.
Ah, speaking of accessories, let’s talk about a few more, shall we? It is important to note that this section could have been renamed “included guides and instructions”, to be honest. Because, if you are new at Pilates and really do not know what you are doing, an included guide can be really nice. Or, and one seller on this list provides this gym accessory, even a poster that provides illustrations of various exercises that you can perform using only a pilates ring.
Heck, it could even be a small guide that simply details some important workouts to perform. However, some sellers may just provide you with access to their online instructional content. Then again, some will literally provide you with their ring and nothing else (which can be a letdown). But, you can always access online tutorial videos yourself, which is a nice backup. Also, and there will be a few manufacturers who do this, you may even see additional resistance bands (which is another workout tool that can be used in the aid of physical therapy) included with your purchase.
Color
No, this is not everything but in the grand scheme of things, it can still play a role.
Alright, let’s let the cat out of the bag, shall we? This is not a critically important design characteristic when it comes to Pilates rings. It should never be a priority in the buying process as the performance of a magic circle is infinitely more critical. But, there is a reason why some sellers will design their model in a plethora of different colors. Have you ever heard the slogan that sex sells?
Well, so does variety and it is amazing how easy it is to attach to something when you like the color. For example, you could have two identical 2017 Ford F-150s parked right next to one another. Let’s say one of them is sky blue and the other is crimson red. Depending on which color you prefer, your thoughts will be skewed on which one you desire. The same process can be linked to magic circles when you think about it.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST PILATES RINGS
1. Mantra Sports
In addition to the fact that this best pilates ring to buy today on the market is made of premium fiberglass, it also comes with an extensive step-by-step exercise poster for your convenience (which not a lot of seller will provide).
Read moreMaterials
As mentioned, this is comprised of premium fiberglass and is much lighter than steel. Some users have reported, though, that it can lose its shape over time, however.
Comfortability
To ensure a safer workout with enhanced comfort, this pilates ring has been engineered with dual EVA foam pads on both the inner and the outer sections of the ring itself.
Portability
Not only does a nylon carry bag come with your purchase but it also sports edges that are made of mesh. Due to this, you can easily stretch the bag out to ensure you do not need to force the magic circle inside.
Accessories
Some sellers will not include a thing with their product so the fact that a 23-inch by 33-inch poster (with 30 workouts ranging from beginner to intermediate to advanced in skill) is included is fantastic.
Colors
You really can’t go wrong with the black exterior and the white and orange handle, to be perfectly honest.
Overall
As a total package, this is the best pilates ring on the market at the moment and rough to beat. If you are solely analyzing the design of the magic circle itself, it could be a little better but is crafted with fantastic materials.
2. Pediacap
For some of you out there, this is simply going to be too flexible. Of course, one perk to this model is that it comes with resistance bands and also a nylon carrying pouch for portability.
Read moreMaterials
In the same light as the last pilates circle, this may be a bit too flexible for some users. Still, it is made of lightweight fiberglass which is hard to argue with.
Comfortability
Due to the fact that this sports ergonomic handles and a completely padded surface, you will be able to achieve a secure grip and an overall comfortable Pilate’s experience.
Portability
The lightweight fiberglass construction makes this a breeze to transport. However, what also helps is the included nylon carrying pouch.
Accessories
Outside of these pilates magic rings, you also get five different colored resistance bands. Each of these bands is made of natural latex and adds even more versatility to your workout.
Colors
While the ring itself is red, which is a nice color option, there are five different colors of resistance bands that are included (which is a really nice touch).
Overall
Yep, this is another one of “those” pilates rings. One of those models that are perfect, granted you do not mind a little extra flexibility. This can deter the experience for some, which is fair, though.
3. Yoga EVO
As for the magic circle itself with this package, it is made out of EVA and is quite firm. But, with your purchase, you also receive three resistance bands that can be used for more exercises. Keep reading our pilates ring review to know more.
Read moreMaterials
Yes, this is actually made out of EVA. Now, what is nice about this is it is both stress-crack resistant and elastic. Overall, though, it is quite firm based on user feedback.
Comfortability
First off, this does come equipped with ergonomic and comfortable handles. But, both sides have been engineered in foam to enhance comfort even further.
Portability
Most models out there will measure 14 inches in diameter and this bad boy actually measures 12 inches. This slightly smaller diameter can make it even easier to transport.
Accessories
This is loaded with accessories. First off, it does come with three resistance bands. But, you also receive an exercise leaflet and also access to instructional videos online.
Colors
For the record, the included colors do affect the colors of the resistance bands, as well. These are one of the best pilates circles and they are available in orange, purple and teal colors.
Overall
Wow, what a total package this is? Now, it is important to remember that the actual magic circle is quite firm and for some users, this will not be desirable.
You could also check out our guide about the best pilates bars here.
4. Oyomba Magic Circle
This here is another fiberglass composed model and in addition to that, it is equipped with soft ergonomic foam handles that add both stability and comfort during exercises.
Read moreMaterials
Being made out of the aforementioned fiberglass, these pilates circles have a good amount of resistance but also is not too firm to be impossible to bend.
Comfortability
On both sides of the ring, there are soft, ergonomic foam handles that offer superior stability and comfort.
Portability
To make this easier to transport and to keep it safe while you do so, this comes with a fitness carrying bag for your convenience.
Accessories
Though instructions do come with your purchase, one user noted that they were overly complex and not very intuitive for novices of this workout method.
Colors
This pilates ring is actually yellow, which is a common color when it comes to this technology.
Overall
It is really hard to ask much more from a pilates ring. Of course, you can make the argument that the included instructions should be a little less complicated, but we digress.
5. ProBody Pilates
Being designed to never snap or lose its spring, it really is not a shock that this model is one of the top sellers in the world. A small bonus is that you can pick from several different colors, as well.
Read moreMaterials
Being made out of the aforementioned fiberglass, this has a good amount of resistance but also is not too firm to be impossible to bend.
Comfortability
On both sides of the pilates ring, there are soft, ergonomic foam handles that offer superior stability and comfort.
Portability
To make this easier to transport and to keep it safe while you do so, this comes with a fitness carrying bag for your convenience.
Accessories
Though instructions do come with your purchase, one user noted that they were overly complex and not very intuitive for novices of this workout method.
Colors
This model is actually yellow, which is a common color when it comes to this technology.
Overall
It is really hard to ask much more from a pilates magic circle. Of course, you can make the argument that the included instructions should be a little less complicated, but we digress.
6. Yogalo Pilates Series
One of the advantages of this design is that the padded handles have been engineered in a 360-degree fashion so they encapsulate the entire ring. Plus, the fiberglass construction is able to maintain optimal resistance.
Read moreMaterials
We come back to fiberglass and besides utilizing this excellent material, this model has also been tested by Pilates professionals around the world so you know the quality is high.
Comfortability
As mentioned, the foam padded handles integrated into this model are done so in a 360-degree fashion. This means that both on the outside and the inside, you will be protected by the padding.
Portability
Though it does not appear that the seller actually sends a travel bag with your purchase, they do note how easy this 14-inch model is to take with you on trips.
Accessories
All that is included with this model is a sheet that is enclosed in the packaging. This sheet provides you with a link to instructional videos. You know, this probably could have been achieved in other manners.
Colors
Unlike some of the other options on this list, you are provided with a pretty good selection of colors. From black to blue to pink to purple, you have solid options.
Overall
At this point, you are starting to realize how good fiberglass models are. This one is no exception and outside of the disappointing “instructions”, this is tremendous.
If you are interested in some harder workouts you could check out our guide about pull up bars here.
7. Balanced Body Ultra-Fit
Balanced Body provides this list with a bit of a different design. While their best pilates ring is equipped with padded handles like most, it is comprised of flexible plastic and a soft rubberized shell.
Read moreMaterials
There have been a few buyers who have noted that this flexible plastic design can be a little too flexible. That said it is protected by a soft, rubberized shell.
Comfortability
On both the inside and the outside of the ring, there are implemented padded handles that are a staple of this technology.
Portability
It was not mentioned if a carrying bag was included with your purchase so the safe bet is one is not. Still, this is as easy as any brand to transport.
Accessories
Included with your purchase is a free, 15-minute DVD. This DVD is merely a training guide and while it is not too extensive, it is certainly better than nothing.
Colors
At the end of the day, it is hard to go wrong with a straight black design (which is exactly what this is).
Overall
If you are after the best pilates magic circle that has an unreal amount of giving, then you may want to look at other options. For the exact opposite buyers, though, this could be the ticket.
If you want to make your workouts harder, check out the best adjustable dumbbells here.
8. Nayoya Wellness
With all the positive pilates ring reviews that have been compiled by this model, it is no secret that many buyers are aware of its greatness. However, it lands lower on this list for a few reasons that will be documented.
Read moreMaterials
Now, there have been buyers who have claimed this has snapped right in half on them. So, clearly, you need to be a little careful with how much you push this model.
Comfortability
The grips themselves are a little large but they are padded with foam on the inside and the outside. Yet, they do make a very annoying clicking noise at times.
Portability
As with so many other options on this list, this does come equipped with a nylon travel pouch. Plus, it rests flat and will not take up that much space.
Accessories
All that really comes with this is a link to a YouTube video, which is technically nothing. While some will find this video useful, others will prefer an actual guide or poster.
Colors
Variety is not the spice of life here but you know what, the bright yellow design with the black foam grips looks very classy.
Overall
Durability is a potential concern here if you are not careful with this model. If you are safe and easy with it, though, about the only real issue is the clicking of the grips.
If you prefer working out on an indoor machine, you could check out elliptical machines here, as you can exercise anytime and achieve your fitness goal even faster.
9. Stott Lite Power Rack
Why not cap this list off with a design that is suitable for beginners? In reality, this is only suitable for beginners due to the makeup of the construction.
Read moreMaterials
Yep, this is not for experts. The primary reason why is it will break if you exert too much pressure on it. Also, it is made of plastic.
Comfortability
While the strength is a concern, the comfortability certainly is not. This is thanks to the inner and outer foam grips of the handles.
Portability
At 14 inches in diameter, which is all but a staple of this technology, there should be no worries when it comes to traveling with this tool.
Accessories
The good news is both an easy start poster and a fitness circle flow DVD are included. Yet, the bad news is some users have reported they never received the poster; even though it is clearly advertised as coming with this.
Colors
This comes with a basic black design that is not flashy but is certainly not appalling.
Overall
If you are a beginner at this craft, then you may want to consider this balanced body pilates ring. It really is suited to you, if that is indeed what you are.
10. ProSource The Resistance
Another common material you will see in the construction of magic circles is steel and in addition to this, this model also is covered with durable rubber and sports padded handles.
Read moreMaterials
It is claimed that no matter how hard you try to twist and squeeze this steel model (that has been covered with durable rubber) it will hold its shape. The main complaint, though, is that this is too flexible, ironically.
Comfortability
As one buyer noted, the foam on the handles is not extensive enough. Because of this, they claim it can be painful when squeezing into certain body parts.
Portability
At the end of the day, you really should not have any issues when it comes to storing and transporting this pilates resistance ring from location to location.
Accessories
It appears that no instructions are included with your purchase or any other accessory, for that matter.
Colors
ProSource allows you to suit your own style here as they design their model in a few different colors. These colors include black, pink, purple and blue.
Overall
It almost seems like a broken record at this point but this is another model that is not sufficient for buyers looking for stellar firmness. Despite this, this is still a well-received magic circle.