Pilates combines mental toughness with physical strength, much like solving a Sudoku puzzle engraved in stone. Carve your fitness niche with today's Groupon for $49, you get two private Pilates classes at Shedden Pilates (a $120 value).

Inspired by extensive research in exercise science, Shedden Pilates' founder and fitness aficionado Dr. Mariana Shedden catalyzes students to forge firmer cores during private classes utilizing traditional Pilates apparatuses. During the intensive one-on-one stretch sessions, a certified Pilates instructor tailors a conditioning regimen to match up with each student's level of experience or predestined palm reading. Taut limbs regain elasticity as pupils hone the art of properly twisting torsos on the Pilates Reformer. Like hiring a slinky to help on moving day, the Wunda chair relies on resistant springs to help shape muscles and increase stamina. Pupils strive to boost balance and lengthen limbs with the spine corrector, which helps align posture more gracefully than advanced-level finishing school. The personalized lessons, which the studio schedules seven days a week, serve up ample opportunities for students to ask questions and garner knowledge from a fitness expert or a well-versed Wunda chair.