Owner Lisa Connelly has morphed the muscles of many Shoreliners (including me) in her years here as a personal trainer. A few years ago, she went out on her own with a boutique gym in Old Saybrook specializing in Pilates. I’ve tried the hoo-hoo-ha-ha many times and I know the workout has its diehard devotees, but it’s simply not my thing.  However, Barre is, and you can find it at Lisa’s sweet gym. There’s an air of Cheers to the place, as everyone in the small class I sampled seemed to be fast friends, and definitely on a first name basis. I like the atmosphere of inclusiveness that Lisa provides, and the workout with plenty of plies, squatting, strengthening and stretching was suited to all levels (which were all represented, too). Fab, too, was her 70’s soul soundtrack that brought me right back to high school and made the harder exercises easier to bear. The hour flew by. Non-ballet dancers welcome. And p.s. Pilates practitioners will love it here.

Mention The E List and your first class is free.

Visit the Pura Vida website for class schedule and specials here: puravidapilates.wordpress.com

787 Boston Post Road in Old Saybrook