Ring of tire

Push your workout to the next level with the addition of a Pilates magic circle. It's perfect for toning and building core strength — and it's light and not too expensive (it's found at most fitness stores for less than $50). It's made of flexible metal or rubber, and is 12 to 14 inches in diameter, with soft pads on each side. Try out a few at the store, and get one that isn't too hard to squeeze but instead provides mild resistance, says Heather Kirk, Pilates instructor at Inline Private Training in Baltimore.

By Danielle Braff, Special to Tribune Newspapers

September 5, 2012