The Gym Project

Last week I took my exercise regimen to the next level by visiting the Physique 57 studio in mid-town Manhattan and experiencing the Lotte Berk-inspired method. The full-body workout lasts 57 minutes but it’s enough to feel exercised and toned up. Each class is structured around fast-paced rounds of free weights for warm-up, the ballet barre and mat work. An abundance of plies, leg extensions, stretching and a lot of pain will accompany you during those 57 minutes together with some music while looking at the studio’s skylit ceiling – the only consolation!

24 West 57th Street, Suite 805
http://www.physique57.com/

Score card

Facilities: 8/10.

A small-sized studio in mid-town Manhattan does not offer a large space. A nice reception with magazines and green apples will welcome you – if you only you knew what is expected from you! The changing room is tiny with some lockers and only two shower rooms. Towels are provided free of charge but not the bottle of water ($2)

Variety of classes:8/10

It’s a specialized studio therefore there are only Physique 57 classes but of various levels: Beginner, Open, Mixed, Advanced and Intense. There are also two mat pilates classes a week, a Prenatal Physique class and private training sessions.

Rate of difficulty: 10/10

I don’t think I have ever tried a more challenging class than the Physique 57. I chose the Open level which was relatively more advanced compared to Beginners. The warm-up wasn't too bad but after we moved to the ballet barre, I felt the pain in my legs. The alternation of plies and leg work, the push-ups, abdominal work and stretching gave a nice but non the less exhausting and intense pace to the whole workout experience. My body was definitely toned up the following day but the signs of pain kept me company for a couple of days. I now think much higher of ballerinas.

EVENTS in New York

Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and The New York Enterprise Report invite you to the 2007 Marketing Expo and Luncheon featuring marketing guru John Jantsch

Wednesday, May 2, 2007, 9:00am - 2:30pm, Grand Prospect Hall, Brooklyn, NY
This highly anticipated event will feature a keynote address by John Jantsch, renowned marketing expert, award winning blogger and author of Duct Tape Marketing - The World's Most Practical Small Business Marketing Guide. Find new resources, make contacts and interact with dozens of exhibitors at the Expo.

Cost to attend:
Expo Only: $25, Expo & Luncheon: $50 (Brooklyn Chamber members), Expo & Luncheon: $75 (Non-members)
For more information, visit: www.ibrooklyn.com/site/newsevents/chambereventsca lendar/current/338.