It's no secret that I love props and variations!!
Props are a way to access more muscles while supporting ourselves in the Pilates exercises. Props can also be used to create a challenge in your Pilates practice. For some examples on this idea - see my post on Using a Magic Circle to Support & Challenge your Pilates Practice
Over the years, I have used and tried tons of different props and I've found my favorites for all body shapes and sizes.
Here are my go-to props and why:
Resistance Band - Two8 Bandz [I am not an affiliate]
Why?
It's a fabric band with multiple loops so you can adjust the tension of the band.
It also has 2 different tensions. The first is lighter and called the Movement Band is lighter because it's an "assistance" band. The second is more supportive and called the Super band, which is a true resistance band.
It's strong and will not break like the common elastic bands after months or years of use. The Super band seems like an equivalent to 2-3 regular elastic bands, which is extremely helpful with those who have more abundance or heaviness in their legs.
With the loops at the end, it's very helpful to those who are having trouble gripping things with the hands due to arthritis or other ailments.
To note - both bands are a touch short for my 5'9" frame for Roll Up, but work great for a lot of other mat exercises and building strength in general. I'm putting in a request for a longer band with the same resistance as the Super band!
Two8 Bandz typically has a sale on their site for both their Movement and Super bandz.
Circle Band
MHiL Bands are sturdy and last a long time. They are fabric with texture on the inside to prevent them from rolling. They will fit most upper thigh sizes.
For those with more thigh abundance, I love the Hatha Yoga bands, because they will be the most comfortable and are about 0.57" larger than the MHiL bands. They are also fabric with texture on the inside to prevent rolling.
Barrel
Peak 4" barrel (quarter barrel) has been my favorite barrel for about 5 years. I also love the Peak 6" barrel. Unfortunately, you need to hit the "Notify Me" button on the site to see when these barrels will be available, again.
Runner up and quite useful is the Balanced Body Arc Lite. It has both a shallow and steep side to it, so you can pick the height you need based on the exercise. It also has the seat, so it can double as a Spine Corrector.
Of course, if you don't have a barrel, I highly recommend using a King size Quilt because it can be shaped to any height you need.
Foam Roller
OPTP SOFT rollers are the way to go, in my opinion. They are perfect for rolling out, but are supportive for most body types. If you have a little trouble lifting the hips on the full size foam roller, they have a half roller that is sturdy. I love the full length because you can lie on it long-wise for a balance challenge.
Personally, I love the PINK one, but the same size and softness comes in blue.
Small Ball & Big Ball
I love Trideer 9" ball for the small ball and I love the same brand for the big exercise ball.
The 9" ball comes in a lot of different colors, so feel free to search Trideer 9" ball to find your favorite color. I have a purple and a turquoise!
You should pick the big ball based on your height, but if you want to do some belly down plank work on the big ball - you might want one size down.
Magic Circle
This one really comes down to whether you want a fully plastic one or one with metal. Search Magic Circle or Pilates Circle or Pilates Ring to find the right one for you.
I have both a large and a mini (from Balanced Body). I rarely use the mini and would recommend shuffling your money towards a different prop than the mini ring.
Hand Weights & Ankle Weights
Any hand weights that have a little texture will work great! I like having 1 lb, 2 lb, and 3 lbs for Pilates exercises, but love having 5 lb, and 10 lb handy for regular weight training work or standing work
I highly recommend ankle weights that have removable weights, so you can adjust as needed. I have a set of 4 lb (per ankle) weights that I've been using since before I started Pilates. The velcro is finally starting to wear a bit, and that's a safety note I want to make. Ensure you have ankle weights that are truly secure if you plan on taking the legs over the head.
I suggest a set that has a longer strap for security, like THIS set. Because my old set is wearing, I have ordered this set so you can ask me how I like them in the next week :)
Air Disc or Balance Disc
Because I have had great luck with Trideer, I'm recommending their wobble cushion. This prop gives a lot of great feedback for exercises like Saw and Spine Twist, but can also be supportive for extension work and Roll Up.
If you have any questions on how to use these props or if you are questioning what to buy, please feel free to comment and I'll respond.
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