Workout Tools
One of my favorite Pilates workout tools is the Magic Circle. In fact, until I opened The Pilates School, it was my only personal piece of Pilates equipment - I travel with it to support my hotel gym mat work and keep it near my desk to relieve the stress of too much computer.
According to legend, Joe created his first Magic Circle using barrel hoops. These circles are well made, with covered metal vs plastic hoops. If you need to support your studio work, or just relieve life-style stress, this is the tool for you!
Let's face it - sometimes our knees need a little extra support and protection. At The Pilates School, we use Airex pads simply because they are the best. Sturdy and washable, they provide just the right squish to keep knees happy. They are also super handy for balance training - standing on them provides an unstable surface on which to perform any variety of fitness routine.
![Airex pads](http://<A href="http://www.performbetter.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product2_10151_10751_1003551_-1_1000232_1000231_1000231_ProductDisplayErro?kbid=4541&img=2104p.jpg"> <img src="http://www.performbetter.com/catalog/affiliates/images/2104p.jpg" border=0></a> <img src="http://www.myaffiliateprogram.com/u/performb/showban.asp?id=4541&img=2104p.jpg" border=0>){kind=link}
I have worn out several foam rollers over the years - while not part of the official Pilates apparatus, they are a wonderful prop to mix up your mat work. However, I also recommend and use them myself for working out knots and tension in my bodies fascia - especially the ever-tight illiotibial band of the leg. These rollers are just the right firmness, very durable, and best of all, black!
