The newest fitness trend claiming to burn more calories in the least amount of time, Pilates Plus has moved eight Proformer machines — which step up the traditional Pilates reformer machine for users who want more cardio and strength training inside their workouts — into a new La Jolla boutique at 7726 Fay Ave. While traditional Pilates uses classic reformer machines, Sebastien Lagree recently created a new system called The Proformer SPX, combining weight and circuit training with traditional Pilates, in an effort to give exercisers a complete cardio workout. “A lot of people who practice traditional Pilates will mock this, but the advantage is that there is nothing like it to hit San Diego,” said Jessica Tomson, Pilates Plus owner and instructor. “Pilates Plus keeps the heart rate up and burns extra calories. You can expect to burn 500 to 600 calories in a single class.” Doctors created the classic Pilates reformer machine when amputee servicemen and women began returning home from war, Tomson said. “Initially, it was used as a form of rehab during the world wars, so if they had limbs severed, they could use the machine to exercise,” Tomson said. The Proformer is a new system Lagree created in Los Angeles in 2005, which combines traditional Pilates with weight and circuit training, Tomson said. According to Lagree’s Web site, he developed the machine after he was “fed up” with asking reformers’ manufacturers to make special changes to accommodate his Pilates classes. The Proformer appears similar to the classic wooden reformer, but expands on the concept. With its steel frame, the machine advances Pilates into the next generation. The apparatus features adjustable resistance coils, allowing exercisers more control during workouts. Unlike the reformer, users can exercise on the front or back of the machine, continuously moving through sets and increasing their heart rate, said Pilates Plus instructor Heather Warren. Lagree has created new exercises specific to the machine, to increase heart rate for continued aerobic intensity. “It’s about slow and controlled movements,” Tomson said. “We do each movement for a minute.” Because Pilates Plus users keep their heart rates up, exercisers gain benefits from both Pilates (stretching and better posture) and weight training (toning and strengthening). “You don’t need the hour-long class — it’s the intensity level you are working out at,” Tomson said. Each Pilates Plus class is $35 for 45 minutes, or $249 for one month of unlimited classes. Pilates Plus is offering a $20 first-time client special, a special $199 per month unlimited classes with a six-month commitment. For information about Lagree, the Proformer or Lagree’s exercise system, visit www.systemdynam ique.com. For information about Pilates Plus, or to book a class, visit www.pilatespluslajolla.com, e-mail [email protected] or call (858) 456-1516.