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The Magic Circle at work

By Laura B. Berger | Special to amNewYork

February 27, 2008

The Magic Circle provides effective pilates training at home. (John Wendle / February 26, 2008)

Sometimes the simplest tools can make a big difference in improving your workout. With the Magic Circle, you can do highly effective pilates training at home. There is a reason why half the stars in Hollywood use Pilates to keep in shape- it¹s a great way to sculpt and tone. Everyone from Jennifer Aniston to Hugh Grant is a devotee. Pilates instructor Jan Phillips, from Real Pilates, shows you just how to use the magic circle to construct a routine to shape up your thighs, abs, arms and glutes.

Phillips is a Peak Certified Teacher Trainer and conducts private and duet sessions for Pilates teachers throughout NYC.

You will need: A Pilates Magic Circle

Double Straight Leg Stretch

Lie flat on your back with your hands behind your head and elbows wide. Hold the circle between your ankles and lift your legs straight up to the ceiling. Curl your upper body up into an abdominal crunch. Squeeze the circle and lower your legs.

Magic Circle Arm Series - Front

Stand upright with your legs together and feet in a narrow "V." Holding the Magic Circle in the palms of your hands, extend your arms in front of you at chest height. Without locking your elbows, squeeze the circle into an oval shape and hold it for 3 counts, lifting higher in the waist as you hold. Release and repeat 4 times for a total of 5 reps.

Side Kicks w/ Magic Circle - Inner thighs

Lie on your side with your legs angled in front of you as though you were shaped like a boomerang. Prop up your head with your hand and place the circle in between your ankles. Hold your legs long and straight and then press down your upper leg, squeezing the circle. Hold for 3 counts increasing the tension and release.

Repeat 6 times on each side.

Shoulder Bridge w/ Magic Circle Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and the Magic Circle between your knees. Feet and knees are hip width apart and parallel. Inhale and press your hips up high without loosening your grip on the circle. Tighten your rear-end to lift nice and high without arching your back. Begin to exhale and lower down one vertebrae at a time curling through your lower back until your seat touches down. Repeat 3 times.