Being lucky enough to be asked along to join in a class at Beautcamp I immediately said yes. I'm trying to get fit and toned again after a few months off and thought this would be a great idea (pathetically throwing myself round the local park has not given me the inspiration yet).

On arrival, a class was already in full swing and after observing a couple of minutes I must admit I started to feel slightly apprehensive. The ominous black benches with springs, pulleys and poles looked...well...rather scary! Not for the faint hearted. However the atmosphere and staff are really friendly and our gorgeous trainer (oh yes ladies) soon demystified the black bench with all its contraptions.

Several big giggle fits and pilate based positions later using the pulleys around either your ankles or hands for resistance, I was already surprisingly sweaty. Had the heating been turned up? No. For the first time in ages I was getting a real full body workout! You really are expertly put through your paces, getting individual help making sure you're breathing through the exercise correctly and are in the correct position. I think there were roughly 8 people in the class which almost makes you feel like you're getting a personal training session.

Apart from concentrating on your core muscles and breathing technique to achieve a leaner more toned body, Beautcamp is really nothing like your traditional pilates class. I was knackered (but had that good feeling like you do after burning it up at the gym), had wobbly legs, and walked like a granny for a couple of days after. Now I'm sure you don't get with a regular pilates class, however I absolutely loved it and am definitely going back.