Health Watch: New Workout Targets Problem Spots For Women

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There is a new workout that targets female trouble spots - arms, bellies and bottoms. 3 On Your Side Health Reporter Stephanie Stahl says it's becoming increasingly popular.

It's a combination of ballet, pilates and yoga. The new, low-impact workout is called Pure Barre, bar as in ballet bar.

"We perform isometric movements using the ballet bar," said Noelle Zane, the owner of the Center City studio where Purre Barre is taught. She says the 55-minute workout has become a big hit since it opened in the fall.

"It's tons of fun. I never dread coming, and when I first started I saw results within a month. So I got pretty addicted fast," said Kelly Zale, a class member.

"Nothing helped until I came here and saw results," said Erika Rubin, a 35-year-old who gained 70 pounds with each of her two children. Now with regular Pure Barre classes, she's lost it all and is back down to her pre baby weight of 125.

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"My stomach is flat. My arms are more defined. I just think that I lost inches in my legs, as well as gained muscle," said Erika.
Pure Barre is a series of small, isolated, moves that target and tone specific muscle groups. And because the workout is so intense, it's supposed to burn fat quickly.

"We work each muscle group to fatigue and then we stretch it out to create those long lean dancer like physiques. We really tighten everything in and lift it up. So our seats get smaller and higher, our arms you'll start seeing definition. Abs you start seeing those lines," said Noelle.

Erika is relieved she finally found a solution to her baby fat.

"It's not boring. It's always changing. It's always something different. I didn't like working out. Now I love it," said Erika.

One class costs $23, less if you buy a package. In addition to the Center City location, a second Pure Barre studio is opening on the Main Line.

For more information on Purre Bar, CLICK HERE.

Reported by Stephanie Stahl, CBS 3