"Where to See Celebrities Sweat"  (Westside Today Nov. 2004)

On the outside there's nothing special about Pro Gym. It looks like another non-descript building in Brentwood. But step inside this modest one-room facility and the star power will make you feel like you're at the Academy Awards.

Outright gawking is considered bad taste, but there are several mirrors to accommodate the most star-struck looky-loos. One of the famous faces you're likely to see is Ryan O'Neal. Now in his 60's, he puts guys half his age to shame with his rugged physique. Outgoing and gregarious, Ryan is often the first person to welcome a newbie to the gym.

Another celeb who likes to pump iron regularly is Garry Shandling. In between workouts, the funnyman has been known to dispense unsolcited advice to fellow exercisers. He once told me that I wasn't doing enough cardio; so I took a long walk, away from him.

On the curvier side, former supermodel Cindy Crawford can often be seen busting her butt on the workout machines with hubby Rande Gerber. Now a soccer mom, Cindy is still very slim and trim. What's her secret? No one knows for sure, but she spends quite a bit of time on the treadmill.

So what draws the rich and famous to this sweat-a-torium? I'm told that it's the high caliber of personal trainers, such as Valerie Waters. This chirpy slave driver specializes in getting actors into shape for their next film. While her clientele includes Jim Carrey and JLO, she and the other sought-after trainers are available to the public as well. Another outstanding trainer is Danny Connolly, who has trained members of the Dallas Cowboys and is well within most people's budgets.

Sweating with the stars can add a buzz of excitement to even the most mundane workout and it's somewhat comforting to know that the rich and famous have to pay their dues just like the rest of us.

There's no pampering at this no frills facility, just free weights, exercise machines, treadmills and life cycles. Sure, the $90 monthly fee is higher than most fitness centers, but where else are you going to have a chance to see Jennifer Garner in spandex?

Pro Gym is located at 11920 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles,CA 90049