Short, superconducting specimens simulating the structure of windings have been examined in order to investigate the instabilities of superconducting windings induced by heat generation due to wire movement, cracking or debonding of the impregnating material. The cryogenic properties of the impregnating materials were also measured. The results revealed the properties of the bobbin and the impregnation materials that are needed for stable superconducting magnets. The training behaviour of impregnated magnets was also studied. It was confirmed that the structure of the winding and the properties of the impregnating material are important factors in superconducting magnet stability.