Smart ring: what it is and how it works. Choosing the best in 2020

Today there are a huge number of different sports devices on the market that help improve efficiency and results. One of the most popular during Pilates workouts is the isotonic ring. Let's consider the effectiveness and description of basic exercises.

• Characteristics of the isotonic ring for Pilates Popular models
• How to choose the right one

Characteristics of the isotonic ring for Pilates

Pilates is a balanced ensemble of exercises that are taken from different movements in sports and designed for recovery from injuries and other problems with the musculoskeletal system. Gradually, the program began to be used to improve flexibility and general strengthening of the body. Today, many sports clubs offer group Pilates classes with different equipment. One of the most popular items is the isotonic ring, which can be purchased at any sports store.

It is a simulator that is designed to create additional resistance when performing exercises, which increases their effectiveness. The advantage is the lightness and compactness of the projectile. The ring is used to strengthen the muscles of the entire body without increasing their volume.

Did you know? Initially, Pilates had a different name - controlology. This is what the inventor Joseph Pilates called it, and this reflected the main essence of the training: complete control over the entire body, breathing and even thoughts.

Most often it is used to work with muscles:

• breasts;
• buttocks;
• hands;
• backs;
• belly;
• surface of the thighs.

The benefits of this equipment are as follows:

1. Improved body quality and muscle tone.
2. Getting rid of skin problems in many places.
3. Low-impact load is safe for joints.
4. Improved posture and relief from back pain.
5. Stabilizing muscles, which are rested in other strength training, are included in the work.
6. Can be used during rehabilitation or recovery after childbirth or for older people.

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Popular models

The most popular models among fans of this equipment are the following:

• Starfit 39 cm;
• Fittools;
• Skyfit SF-FR870;
• Balanced Body Ultra-Lite Circle UL-3005 (lightweight);
• Balanced Body Ultra-Fit Mini Circle diameter 30.5 cm.

How to choose the right one

Based on the fact that there are a huge number of options for this product on the market, the buyer may choose the wrong product that he needs. It’s ideal to ask a trainer for advice or buy the one you work out with at the gym.

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Important! All exercises with an isotonic ring are effective because they increase the load on the entire body, but without increasing muscle volume.

In addition, it is better to purchase the shell from a reliable seller. The rings come in two sizes - 35 and 38 cm in diameter. The first is used by women, and the second by men. Everyone chooses the shape of the handles individually.

What is a smart ring and how does it work?

So far, smart rings do not have certain “basic” functionality (with the exception of Bluetooth). It is possible to describe what a modern smart ring is only through a description of existing models. Therefore, below we will look at four models that can already be purchased and put on your finger.

One function of the ring cannot be discounted: it is decoration. However, in all other respects they are very different. The obvious function is notifications (similar to a smartwatch or bracelet), but only a very small screen will fit on the ring. Looking ahead, let's say that there won't be any of these in our review. Another option is to place an accelerometer and gyroscope in the gadget’s body and use them to track steps, pulse, and maybe blood pressure. Such a solution, however, will also require technological innovation. The third option is an NFC ring with a module for contactless payment or for interaction with other NFC devices. Fourth, use the ring as a contactless dongle for authorization in various services, store passwords and keys in it. There are also very exotic solutions, for example, for tracking the pulse of the other half of the ring owner.

This diversity also has a downside: there are no universal smart rings today. If top-end smartphones or smartwatches can do everything that is expected of their class, then for rings the very concept of “class” is blurry - it’s a set of unique devices without a common platform. Everything is like Clive Lewis: to go to the forest between worlds - a yellow ring, to return from there - a green one.

Rings and ideals

In our case, these are not algebraic terms (although the creators of the rings probably spent many hours on algebra when developing them!), but questions about the very essence of the gadget. It is difficult to imagine something more convenient to wear than a ring on a finger: for how many centuries humanity has held on to this format, given it such symbolism, and developed the entire art of creating and the language of rings! And yet, the smart ring doesn't yet have a generally accepted meaning.

There is nothing surprising. Today's smart watches have also been looking for their purpose for a long time, until they turned into a hybrid of a personal assistant, trainer and therapist. But remember how many A-class manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung and Huawei, have invested effort and money, and how many have lost their way or are content with second roles. For example, Microsoft has not been able to stay in the race at all, while Google remains catching up.

There is no interest in smart rings from the giants yet. As for talented startups, they create interesting individual devices, but cannot design a class. However, perhaps this era is just worth enjoying. Remember, for example, how colorful and varied the shelves with mobile phones looked at the end of the 2000s, and how totalitarian solid rectangles with touchscreens look now.

Perhaps smart rings will someday become monotonous. The ideal model should overcome the shortcomings that are inherent in the class today:

1. Unusually large size. Especially if the developer decided to place a display on the ring: then the case requires at least a display controller, a wireless communication module and a battery. And this makes wearing them uncomfortable.
2. Unstable work. As we said, smart rings are mainly developed by small companies that lack the resources for full testing and control. This means the quality will suffer.
3. Frankly “gadget” design. While it was not difficult to get used to smart watches in the form of “small TVs,” plastic smart rings look like the cheapest piece of jewelry. Of course, what is unforgivable for decoration is normal for a gadget, but you can’t explain to everyone you meet that it’s electronics! Look, Apple, this is where your logo makes the most sense; on the other hand, try to look at that apple again...
4. Size problem. Fitting a bracelet to your wrist is much easier than fitting a ring to your finger. The size chart (shown below) suggests very large differences, and these are important when dealing with miniature electronics. It won’t be possible to get by with two sizes, as Samsung or Apple does with watches, which creates additional problems for manufacturers.

Size table:

• 7 – 54 mm;
• 8 – 57.1 mm;
• 9 – 60 mm;
• 10 – 62.8 mm;
• 11 – 66 mm;
• 12 – 70 mm.

Best pair for a smart ring

We are already accustomed to the fact that wearable electronics work best together. Smart watches and bracelets can autonomously track heart rate, workouts, or steps (and show the time, of course), but for full operation they need a connection with a smartphone. It’s logical to assume that it’s the same with rings – if the developer presents the corresponding applications.

Of the rings we're introducing today, almost all of them work with both iPhone and Android devices (if they need a smartphone companion at all). By default, of course, it is desirable to have a phone with Bluetooth and full-featured NFC; If absolutely all smartphones have the first one today, then many manufacturers (especially Chinese) neglect the second one, and Apple significantly cuts it. So the ideal companion for a smart ring is an Android smartphone with NFC from an A-brand (Samsung, Huawei/Honor, LG, Motorola, etc.), but there may be problems with Meizu or Xiaomi, as, indeed, and from iPhone. It’s not worth talking about the dying operating systems (Windows Mobile/Phone, Bada, Firefox OS).

Set of exercises

We suggest you try training with the exercises described below, which will help restore your body in a short period of time.

Get acquainted with a set of Pilates exercises on a fitball.

For arms, shoulders, chest and back

Exercise aimed at the muscles of the shoulders, arms and even back:

1. Starting position (IP) - legs are positioned in Turkish. Keep your back straight and your shoulders fully straightened.
2. The ring is placed at chest level, elbows spread to the sides.
3. Perform turns of the upper body alternately to the sides, holding the maximum in each for several seconds.

Exercise for the muscles of the chest, arms and even the abs:

1. IP - standing as straight as possible. The ring is placed between the palms, which are placed at chest level.
2. They tense their muscles and begin to lift the projectile upward.
3. In a relaxed state they return to the IP.
4. They tighten the muscles again and lower the projectile to the lower abdomen.
5. They relax and return to the IP.

Exercise to increase spinal mobility:

1. IP - lying on your back, arms placed along the body. The ring is placed just above the knees.
2. The stomach is pulled in and the legs are slowly squeezed. They lift their hips off the floor, arching their back, stretching all the vertebrae.
3. The final pose is focusing on the heels and shoulder blades of the back.

For the belly

These exercises train the oblique muscles, as well as the entire abs.

It will be useful for you to learn about the most effective abdominal exercises for women and men.

Exercise #1:

1. IP - lying on your back, arms placed along the body.
2. The legs are bent at the knees and the ring is clamped with them.
3. While inhaling, lift the body.

Exercise #2:

1. IP - lying on your back, legs bent at the knees.
2. The ring is taken in hand and placed above the head.
3. As you exhale, tense your abs and begin to lift your body up.
4. On inhalation, they return to IP.

Exercise #3:

1. IP - lying on your stomach, stretch your arms forward and squeeze the projectile with your palms.
2. As you exhale, lift your body and legs at the same time.
3. On inhalation, they return to IP.

You can also place the ring between your ankles.

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Did you know? Pilates

—
This is not gymnastics for getting rid of excess weight, it helps strengthen muscles, increase joint flexibility, restore posture, relieve pain and teach you to breathe correctly.

For hips and buttocks

We offer you training to improve the quality of the thigh muscles.

Exercise #1:

1. IP - lying on your back, legs bent, the projectile is placed between the knees.
2. They begin to slowly raise the pelvis, while straining the buttocks.
3. Then lower your hips, relaxing the muscles.

Exercise #2:

1. IP - lying on your side. The palm of the hand, which is located on top, rests on the floor.
2. The ring is placed between the legs in a suitable place.
3. Tighten the leg muscles, squeezing the ring, and point the legs upward.
4. Return to IP.

Exercise #3:

1. IP - Pilates position, the stomach is pulled in. The ring is placed just above the knees. Elbows spread to the sides.
2. They begin to slowly squat several times, straining their legs and springing them.
3. Return to IP.

Video: technique for performing exercises for the hips and buttocks with an isotonic ring Important! Having studied the basic exercises, everyone can develop a suitable program for themselves, since there are many opportunities to use this equipment.

What is the principle of operation of the products

Devices for bringing weight back to normal were invented by the Japanese. According to the developers, when worn, the rings have a stimulating effect on biologically active points on the arms and legs. Thanks to their actions, a significant decrease in appetite occurs, while the method is considered quite safe, and weight loss is natural.

The influence of magnets also extends to metabolism and circulatory processes. Due to this, extra pounds can be quickly shed. No serious consequences for the body should be expected.

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Useful tips

To get the maximum benefit from using an isotonic ring, you need to follow these helpful recommendations:

1. The first ring should not be too tight; it is better to take a lightweight one and only then purchase one with greater rigidity.
2. At first, it is better to do the minimum number of repetitions with the apparatus and only then increase it.
3. Classes should be carried out regularly so that the muscles are used for the maximum time.
4. Before training, it is important to do a good warm-up, not only thoroughly warming up the muscles, but also stretching them.

As can be seen from all of the above, the Pilates ring is quite a useful device. The main thing is to use it correctly, and then positive results will not be long in coming.

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Magnetic silicone rings are a unique weight loss product based on the experience of Chinese medicine. The effect of the ring stimulates increased metabolism, which is known to be one of the main conditions for losing excess weight. After just three weeks of constantly wearing such a ring, you can notice the effective result of losing weight and becoming fit. The rings also massage the legs and improve blood circulation. Sooo many new products!

The problem of extra pounds has already acquired a national character.

Efficiency

The Pilates ring is available in two variations – with a diameter of 35 and 38 cm. When choosing a device, you should be guided only by your personal feelings. What is so good about this sports instrument? An isotonic ring is quite inexpensive compared to other sports equipment: the average price is 300-500 rubles. Moreover, it does not take up much space. The effectiveness of exercises with a Pilates ring will certainly be noted by girls who often want to reduce their volume without pumping up their muscles. Pilates classes are more aimed at developing flexibility and mobility of muscles and joints. The design feature of the isotonic ring helps to tighten and tidy up women's problem areas - hips, buttocks and waist. However, exercises with a Pilates ring are unlikely to be suitable for those who want to achieve relief and volume in their muscles.

Performance and tracking

Motiv Ring doesn't offer the same features as Fitbit or Garmin devices. Instead of step count, we get “active minutes,” which is a combination of movement combined with heart rate. Additionally, you get standard heart rate tracking and basic sleep tracking, which doesn't provide any detail in terms of deep, light, or REM sleep.

All data is transferred through the application, which is minimalist but beautifully designed and easy to use. On the main screen of the software, your activities for the entire day will be shown in the form of pictures. These pictures tell you the basic data that was collected (walking with active minutes counting, sleep, heart rate). Clicking on one reveals a little more information.

The Motiv app's home page will show you your steps, miles traveled, and calories burned. To see the results of previous days, you need to swipe left. Unfortunately, there is no way to view the entire past month and select a specific day. The data is quite accurate, with some exceptions. The sleep tracking feature pinpointed the time I dozed off and woke up. Everything works similarly with determining the number of steps.

While running, the Motiv Ring accurately showed your distance traveled and your maximum heart rate. However, the lack of GPS will not allow you to get more detailed statistics in the form of tempo or cadence.

Smart ring Oura Ring

Along with the Motiv smart rings, Oura offers an interesting model for those who want to keep control of their physical activity and health. The Oura Ring fitness ring of both the first and second generations is distinguished by the presence of great functionality and aesthetic qualities.

External description

The second generation ring has a more elegant and stylish shape and looks great on the hand of both men and women. They are practically not felt during daily wear.

A feature of the sales policy of this manufacturer should be considered maximum attention to the buyer. Thus, the company suggests choosing your fitness ring size with special care. To do this, the future buyer is sent a set of several possible size options. It is recommended to wear the chosen one on your finger for 24 hours, and then finally decide on the ring.

The second generation of this ring has a more elegant shape and lighter weight. On average, its weight is 4-6 g. And this is lighter than even some ordinary rings! Therefore, wearing this fitness ring model does not cause discomfort and allows you to monitor your sleep. Oura Ring is available in several colors.

The second generation ring began to be produced from a harder and more durable metal - titanium. Even during an active life, where the jewelry on your hands receives significant stress in the form of contact with hard surfaces, the surface of the Oura Ring does not receive visible scratches or damage.

Functionality indicators

A gyroscope, an infrared pulse optical sensor, and a skin surface temperature sensor are located on the inner surface of the fitness ring. Their surface is coated with a special compound that does not cause irritation to the epidermis even when wearing the gadget for 24 hours.

The absence of a screen on this ring means communication with the owner only through applications. The user-friendly interface of the selected applications allows you to receive the most complete information in a convenient and understandable form. General information about the current state and the degree of physical activity received is received. This is possible thanks to the joint use of data from all sensors built into the ring.

The main goal of the developers of the Oura Ring is to provide the maximum amount of data on physical well-being without overloading the owner with unnecessary details.

Necessary equipment

The following types of equipment may be useful for conducting classes at home:

1. The isotonic ring “Pilates” of medium resistance helps to gain harmony. The exercises contain elements of yoga, callanetics, and breathing exercises. Smooth, leisurely movements are accompanied by tension, due to which a large consumption of calories is achieved.
2. A hoop with a massage coating in the form of soft balls or spikes is used to shape the waist and hips. Efficiency increases when combined with proper nutrition. Exercises with a hula hoop have a massage effect aimed at removing subcutaneous fat.
3. A gymnastic ball is used to perform special therapeutic exercises aimed at correcting posture and stretching muscles. Selected by height: when sitting on the ball, the position of the hips should be parallel to the floor.
4. The step platform puts increased stress on the knee and hip joints. Effectively used for weight loss, since performing exercises takes a lot of energy. You can use dumbbells to increase the load.
5. A floor-mounted rotating disc helps train the muscles of the legs, hips, and abdominals. Using the simulator accelerates the burning of fat cells in subcutaneous deposits and gives the figure a beautiful relief shape.
6. The ab roller effectively uses several muscle groups during training: back, arms, legs, abs. Regular use gives good results.
7. Jumping rope promotes weight loss due to rhythmic movements and high energy consumption. Regular exercise provides efficiency equivalent to cycling, swimming in the pool, or jogging.
8. The core board develops balance and coordination. Using equipment uses several muscle groups at the same time and develops flexibility. During training, a lot of energy is expended, which contributes to the rapid burning of calories. Exercises on the board improve the functioning of the vestibular apparatus and develop a sense of balance.
9. The gymnastic stick is simple in shape and multifunctional in use. Used to perform strength exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the upper and lower parts of the body.
10. A trampoline takes up more space than other sports equipment. However, exercise on it brings both physical and moral benefits. Systematic exercises help the lungs increase in volume, which makes breathing easier and has a positive effect on blood circulation. The tissues are saturated with oxygen, and the intensity of the jumps charges you with energy and good mood.