With all the health-conscious, public transit using, work-out enthusiasts that live in San Francisco, it comes as no surprise that San Francisco is ranked number one as the fittest city in America. There is something about bragging to my friends on the East Coast or even in LA about MY city being the most healthy city out there that feels so damn good and makes me feel so freaking proud!

So how do I keep fit? Aside from trying to eat as healthy as possible and walking/using public transportation everday to and from work, I recently started going to The Dailey Method. A close friend of mine had taken this class several years back and had such positive things to say about her experience. And with a South Beach trip coming up at the end of the month, I decided that now was the time to get started in The Dailey Method. I am about 6 classes in and let me tell you, this class really knows how to kick your butt (in a good way, of course). 

Ill be honest, though. After my first class, I came home feeling so discouraged, feeling as though all the other girls in the class were lightyears ahead of me. Their flexibility was just astonishing. There I was, with probably the tightest hamstrings in the world, unable to even place my foot on the bar. Luckily, I am surrounded by an immense amount of support and love in my life, that I was convinced to go to a second class. And it was after the second class, I realized that it didnt matter how flexible I was then, but rather, how flexible I was going to become.

The Work-Out: It is the hour that goes by the fastest in my day, by far. The workout includes mat stretching, weights, ballet barre work, and tons of core conditioning involving very familiar yoga and pilates moves. There is not one body part that gets to sit out during this workout. Every part of your body that you would want toned, gets toned: biceps, triceps, deltoids, abs, butt, thighs, quads, everything. No body part gets to sit this one out.  You WILL feel a sore the next day, a sore that will want to just bring you back for another class. 

Location: Fortunately, there is a studio literally just a half-block away from my apartment, which makes it so easy to come home from work, put on my yoga pants, and make it to a class. The studio is very well kept, well lit, and they have a nice locker room for those ladies who are coming straight after work. They have many other locations in and around San Francisco, and in Illinois as well. Click here to find a location near you. 

Instructors: Amazing. In my 6 different classes, I have had 4 different trainers and all were good. Some were amazing, some less amazing, but overall, my experience with each of the instructors were good. So far, my favorite is Stephanie because she took the time (even when the class was full) to focus on my technique and alignment. After talking to several of my classmates, however, it seems that Katina is by far the most saught after. I will have to try her class next time.

Price: Not bad for the workout you receive. I have tried Pilates before and paid up to $35 per class. DM offers a new client one-month unlimited special for $100. Mind you, each class is $20, so for me, having gone to 6 classes, I have already made the most of my unlimited special. But trust me, you are going to want to keep going.

I highly suggest this class for women who are looking to get longer, leaner, stronger and more fit.

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