Elite Fitness Hartford, Cromwell

Fitness-centric posters speckle the walls of the newly expanded Elite Fitness studio, aiming to motivate students through workouts during more than 35 fitness classes throughout the week. Reflected in the towering mirrors, seasoned instructors captain cardio, strength-training, and flexibility sessions, including an innovative Sh'Bam class, where they'll guide students through high-intensity dance moves to the tune of popular music. Otherwise, in a private cycling room, they'll lead indoor rides on advanced M3 bicycles, which, unlike real bikes, provide computerized feedback and don't try to buck the rider every 2 miles.

At the studio's juice bar, attendants dole out healthy postworkout fruit shakes that feature ingredients such as whey protein. Meanwhile, attendants look after youngsters in an onsite babysitting center.