What Do You *Really* Do with a Pilates Ring?

You probably know what a Pilates ring is, but do you have any idea how to use it outside of a Pilates class? There's a reason there are one or two of them hanging out in your gym's pile of equipment; this workout tool can be perfect for toning muscles without adding a ton of resistance.

Before you try hula-hopping or something else embarrassing, check out the next video in our WTF Workout Equipment series: the how-to guide for the Pilates ring. (ICYMI, we already covered What to Do with a Balance Board and How to Use a ViPR.) Equinox trainer Rachel Mariotti demos three moves and explains why this tool can help add an interesting element to your workout: it only requires small movements, but recruits new muscles and results in a lot of burn.

Add these moves into your routine to target your inner thighs and chest muscles. (That's right-say hello to tighter thighs and perkier boobs!)

Squat and Adductor Squeeze

A. Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width apart and place the ring between your thighs. Squeeze legs together to keep tension on the ring while lowering into a squat.

B. Keep squeezing knees, and slowly return to standing.

Do 3 sets of 10 reps.

Lying Adductor Squeeze

A. Lie on right side, propping torso up on right elbow. Place ring between thighs with legs straight.

B. Push down with the top leg to squeeze the ring. Keep core activated.

Do 3 sets of 15 reps.

Chest Squeeze

A. Stand with feet hip-width apart. Hold Pilates ring by handles at shoulder height with arms outstretched and palms facing in.

B. Push the edges of the ring in towards the center, squeezing chest. Release.

Do 3 sets of 10 reps.