Whether you choose to perform your Pilates exercises at home or in a Pilates studio you will be pleased to know that there is a wide selection of Pilates accessories for you to choose from. They will not only make your Pilates routine more interesting and enjoyable but in some cases actually enhance your effectiveness.

Once started you will want to maintain your workout schedule but this is not always possible when on occasion you have to travel. You may not have access to larger equipment or machines so smaller Pilates accessories that will travel will enable you to carry out much of your Pilates routine.

Pilates Accessories – Clothing

You are very keen to start your Pilates exercises but you want to look good and feel comfortable.

The ideal Pilates clothing should of course be comfortable and move with you through each exercise. We would suggest that the clothing should be close fitting but not too tight.

Generally speaking the most suitable Pilates apparel will be made from a mix of cotton, nylon, and spandex. Cotton allows the garment to breath whilst the stretching will be provided by the nylon and spandex.

When choosing your Pilates clothing it is important to bear in mind that you do not want any distractions when performing each exercise. The effectiveness of the Pilates exercises depends on your ability to precisely execute each exercise as laid down. Your level of concentration is of paramount importance. Ill-fitting clothing will not help this.

Pilates Accessories – the Pilates Flex Band

The Pilates flex band has accumulated a number of names: Flex Bands, Pilates Bands, Thera-bands, Resistance tubing/bands, Exercise bands, and Flex bands and of course the very well know ‘Stott Flex-Band Exerciser’.

You can replicate the effectiveness of using a Pilates reformer by using a Pilates flex band which simulate spring resistance. A Pilates flex band helps to tone arms and legs, which some people think are neglected in a normal Pilates mat workout.

As a Pilates accessory it is very easy to use. The Pilates Flex Band is a very good accessory to use before trying the more advanced Pilates Magic Circle.

Pilates Accessories  – the Pilates Magic Circle

Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, the Joseph Pilates ‘Pilates Magic Circle’ can still be purchased today. The original version is made of tempered stainless steel but there are now many different models available made of more contemporary materials. An example would be the much advertised ‘Winsor Pilates Magic Circle ‘. Many of the new models come with a DVD or Video providing proper instruction. The Pilates Magic Circle contributes gentle to moderate resistance to an exercise. You can use a Pilates Magic Circle between your arms, thighs, or ankles

Pilates Accessories – Pilates Balance Ball

A mainstay of the Pilates exercise program is the Pilates balance ball. It is also called a ‘Swiss ball’, Stability ball’, or just simply an exercise ball, This simple piece of exercise is much harder to use than it sounds, particularly when performing exercises that you did on a mat.

Attempt the same exercises on the ball and you will experience just how much more difficult they are to perform at the same time as maintaining your balance.

This gives you a flavor of the Pilates accessories available and rest assured there are many more.