Before Pilates, those looking to tighten their core were forced to exercise at six times normal gravity inside high-speed centrifuges, hoping the excessive speed would simply fling the fat off. Strengthen your body in elegant, non-centripetal fashion with today's Groupon: for $49, you get five small-group Pilates reformer classes (a $150 value) from Marla Bingham Studio in La Jolla. Though this Groupon doesn't expire for six months, all five classes must be taken within seven weeks of completing the first.

Pilates is a low-impact total-body discipline that uses resistance machines, stretching, and controlled breathing patterns to make the body looser, lither, and healthier. Led by dancer/choreographer-turned-Pilates-guru Marla Bingham, the team includes experienced and knowledgeable instructors who are certified in Pilates and attentive to the individual needs of muscles and their masters.

The studio specializes in equipment-based classes using reformer machines, which feature straps, weights, and pulleys to enhance the workout experience. The sessions improve posture and flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and make joints feel as loose as a tin man in a vat of oil. Classes, which are open to all skill levels, are limited to five people, ensuring students get a healthy dose of personalized attention while adhering to the Constitutional amendment declaring that six is a crowd. Consult the schedule to find class times that work for you.

Valid for new clients only.

Reviews

Last year, CityVoters chose Marla Bingham Studio as San Diego's third-best Pilates studio. More than 70 of them give the studio an average of five stars:

• Cozy, warm, inviting studio. Excellent, endearing, patient and knowledgeable instructors. Very good, clean equipment. Excellent place to get in shape and stay in shape. – Irma L.
• Marla Bingham has succeeded with Pilates where multiple surgeries have failed. My CEO is a new person thanks to her knowledge and techniques. She's very personable and pleasant to work with, as well. – PHAMLIN
• Very professional. LaJolla is blessed to have a person of Marla's background in our community. – Sally M.