Strengthen-Lengthen-Tone Your Way to a Complete Workout

A couple of months ago, I was invited to try an SLT class at my local Roslyn studio. Not familiar with SLT? Well, I wasn’t either. But after a quick visit to their website, I learned that SLT stood for strengthen, lengthen, and tone. Similar to Pilates, the whole body workout is done on a reformer machine and utilizes controlled movements and counter-resistance to get those muscles moving. Since I’m always up for a challenge, I decided to give it a try.

The Studio. I love boutique studios that provide a more intimate setting. And since SLT is a reformer-based workout, class sizes are small to allow for individualized instruction.

The Class. If you’re new to SLT, like I was, you’ll probably want to start off with an intro class, but they offer classes to accommodate all different levels and workout preferences. The intro class was exactly what I needed. I found the apparatus a little intimidating at first, so I was glad to have an instructor who walked us through how to use what and when.

Once you get set up on the reformer, be prepared to get your heart rate going almost immediately—think Pure Barre-type exercises and small isometric movements, and you’ll get an idea of what the 50 minute class is like.

The Soreness. I’m pretty sure that I used muscles I didn’t even know I had during this workout—read: my muscles were shaking like a leaf throughout most of the class. Between holding the movements, and let’s not forget, counter-resistance on top of it all, I fully understand why SLT people like to say ‘better sore than sorry.’

If you are going to try out an SLT class for yourself, I highly recommend a good pair of grip socks (which, are studio policy, anyway). My socks weren’t super grippy and it made the workout ten times harder because I was also trying not to slip while going through the movements. The reformers themselves have no traction, so trust me, invest in a good pair of grip socks so you can fully enjoy the workout.

And don’t forget the water! I always bring a water bottle with me when I workout, but don’t always drink from it until the class is over. This is one workout where you will want to keep the H20 within arms reach.

So, how was the workout overall? It was intense, but I loved that I could squeeze in a whole-body workout in 50 minutes. If you are crunched for time during the week, like I am, then definitely try out an SLT class. You’ll feel good about getting one complete sweat sesh in—and less guilty when you indulge in that donut later in the week.