Core Fusion at Exhale

I tried out Core Fusion at Exhale Spa. To my surprise it was almost exactly the same as Physique 57.

This is the Exhale description:
Build a strong core. Develop washboard abs. Improve posture. Focus your mind.
Core Fusion® is known as a Pilates-infused transformational fitness experience as it allows you to work from the inside out and it consistently delivers results. This highly publicized mind body class is proven to give you washboard abs, a tighter and higher backside, and a perfectly toned body.This one-hour class fuses the disciplines of core conditioning, Pilates, and yoga to produce long, lean muscles, a flexible, youthful body and a sense of peace and relaxation. (picture is a yoga class--sorry)

This is the Physique description:
During the 57-minute class, clients use weights and the ballet barre to strengthen and lengthen every muscle group to create supple and lean bodies. All beginner, mixed and advanced level classes are structured to make the most of every minute. Motivating music accompanies the brisk sequence of toning exercises and stretches. Throughout the session, Physique 57® instructors move among clients positioning, aligning, and providing individualized instruction.

I took a beginner class at Exhale, so I am not sure it it was slightly easier or if it was the level. It was certainly more subdued, almost relaxing. It was definitely challenging, but I didn't feel I was getting the calorie-burn that I get from the high-heart rate more boot camp style class at Physique.

As far as atmosphere, Exhale has Physique beat hands down. The spa is beautiful and Zen-like. The locker rooms are gorgeous and filled with amenities, including free locks on all the lockers.

The workout studio was twice as big as the Physique studios, and there were only about half as many students.

I intend to stay loyal to Physique, but I wish they would charge less, now that I see what their competition offers! I have to try the more advanced Core Fusion class to see if that offers the same level of intensity as the open Physique classes.