Trying out Chicago's new Pilates rowformer class

A new fitness studio called STRONG Pilates has just docked in Chicago, combining Pilates with rowing in a high-energy, equipment-intense environment.

Why it matters: Once a fitness regimen for dancers, Pilates has surged in popularity among the general public, spawning hybrid spinoffs that use specialized equipment and sometimes command high prices.

Yes, but: Is it worth it? I recently tried one during a media preview at the new Lakeview STRONG facility near the Music Box Theatre and came out with mixed feelings and delightfully sore muscles.

The basics: The franchise started in Australia, where it's also known as Australian Pilates.

• Classes last 45 minutes, involving a pretty complicated machine called a "Rowformer," a play on the Pilates "reformer" machine.
• Backed by loud, high-energy music, an instructor leads students through exercises on both the rowing part of the machine and sliding reformer sections that involve small, intense movements targeting specific muscles on arms, legs and hips.

The pros: The workout is very intense, motivating and effective. Plus, STRONG offers some great introductory deals like seven classes for $59.

The cons: I found the volume of the music and instruction ear-piercing. I moved to a different machine and even grabbed a pair of complimentary earplugs from the lobby, but it remained still distractingly intense.

• All the buttons, straps, knobs and bands on the machine can be complicated to manage, although I imagine repeat visitors would finally get the hang of it.

The bottom line: I can see someone getting super fit at this gym if they can get past the intense exertion, complicated machines and super loud loud instruction.