In the Victorian era, people made their cores look tight by wearing corsets, which doubled as bulletproof vests during pistol duels. Strengthen your core until it's naturally impervious to bullets with today's Groupon: for $45, you get five group Reformer classes at Premier Pilates and Training in Hoboken (a $175 value).

Pilates is a low-impact, total-body discipline that uses resistance gadgetry, stretching, and controlled breathing patterns to make the body looser, lither, and healthier. As opposed to mat classes, Reformer classes enlist the help of specialized spring-resistance machines to help students tighten and tone everything from the core, upper arms, abs, and oft-overlooked pancreas. Gut-busting group-class options include the curiously blueberry-free Muffin Top Challenge, Call to Arms and Abs, Booty Camp, and the BOSU Challenge for better balance and bear hugs. Check the schedule for class times, and register for the five sessions of your choice online.

All of Premier Pilates' instructors are certified in Pilates instruction and attentive to the individual needs of muscles and their masters. Pilates classes can help anyone improve their whole health, from muscle to mind, and no fitness experience is necessary. It's never too late to avert the fate that befell the semi-gelatinous blobfish.

Reviews

While Premier Pilates and Training has yet to receive many online reviews, eight Kannekt reviewers offer their opinions:

• After jogging and going to the gym on and off over the years, I was looking for a challenging workout that I would stick with. I have been taking private sessions with Meghann for several months, and have been extremely happy with the results!! – Kannekt reviewer, 07/01/2008
• Great atmosphere. I hate gyms, and this is the only workout I actually enjoy and see results with. Prices are excellent and the owner treats everyone in classes like they are at a private lesson. – Kannekt reviewer, 02/19/2007