“I absolutely loved it. So, I decided to get certified,” Burkett-Trebbi said. She has been teaching Pilates for four years. She has also taught at the Pendleton Pilates and the Cincinnati Sports Mall.

Now she has taken her knowledge and fitness expertise to another level and opened a Pilates Studio called “Training 'Core'ters,” located on the second floor of The Strand in Mariemont.

“The program is amazing. It is something that has been around since the 1920s but only hit the mainstream until recently,” she said. “I've taught many people who suffered from back problems who say they feel so much better now.”

Pilates focuses on an individual’s core muscles a.k.a. The abs, gluts and back, chest, pelvic area and hips by working them through a series of stretching and flexing. Similar to yoga, there is much deep breathing incorporated with the exercise, which is conducted on a machine called a “reformer”. It is suitable for all athletic abilities, and is a non-impact form of exercise that re-aligns the spine, coordinates breath with movement, strengthens the core and creates longer, leaner muscles throughout the body.

“This will especially help people with back problems ... it will remedy those problems right away,” she said. “People with these back problems, aches and pains will feel rejuvenated when finished.

“It will help you in everyday activities and is vital in having a fit body. Pilates is the most effective way to increase your core strength while toning your entire body. Pilates is an exercise that connects the body and mind.”

According to Burkett-Trebbi, the abdominal muscles are the most important muscles in the human body. The abs are in direct connection with the back muscles and the hamstrings (muscles located at the back of the upper legs). The cause for many back problems is due to weak abdominal muscles and tight hamstrings; Pilates aims to strengthen those abs and stimulate for flexibility in the surrounding muscles.

And golfers will be happy to know that pilates improves their golf game. Tiger Woods even does it.

Workouts are one-hour each session with a group. Prior to being included in group sessions, people must first take four private sessions to become acclimated to the machine. Mat classes and yoga classes with parents and their children are also available.

Pilates Studio Training 'Core'ters, is now open but will be having an official grand-opening Friday, June 3, and is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information on becoming a member, call 271-8500 or visit the studio at 6834 Wooster Pike.