I took a one-on-one intro to pilates class with Bally trainer Sheri Newton to experience firsthand the workout that has so many celebrities hooked.

Alright Sheri, tell me about pilates, and why it is such a popular workout these days.
Sheri: Pilates, for one, helps with the toning of the muscles and elongated the muscles. And the thing about it is, you don’t have to use free weights, it’s all resistance. It helps the toning of the abdomen, the triceps, biceps and legs.

Springs are adjusted for varying degrees of resistance. The basic posture requires you keep your abs pressed down and your tailbone against the carriage. First, a beginner’s move for the legs.

Inhale, exhale.

Next, you can work your abs, inner thighs, and quadriceps by turning your feet outward.

You’re doing a total body workout right here.

Using the straps you can perform arm circles.…as well as leg circles…both done in a smooth, fluid motion. For Inside Fitness, I’m Bonnie Kaye.