Los Angeles - April 09, 2004

Hard Core

Core Conditioning

Some would say this town needs another gym like it needs another unemployed actor.

In fact, it needs gyms in direct proportion to its unemployed actors. Where else are they supposed to go? They’ve already overrun your neighborhood Coffee Bean.

So rather than deplore the opening of Core Conditioning, the “concept gym,” you might just observe its merits. The concept? A rehabilitative approach to losing weight, meaning the total mind-body-wellness thing. Which should appeal to the idle thespian and regular working stiff alike. (Rumor has it Mr. Pacino comes in for tweaking.) Ballet, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and physical therapy are the offerings; the space is armed with modern equipment, and the peaceful green decor has a very Zen-retreat feel. Located in Studio City, it’s just a stone’s throw from that audition in the Valley.

As for those who take a dim view of the whole fitness thing, don’t despair: At least the lines at the Coffee Bean will be shorter.

Core Conditioning, 12930 Ventura Boulevard, between Coldwater Canyon and Van Noord Avenues (818-907-0008).