In the States, the stiletto workout is sweeping the nation, well Manhattan, as women ditch their mildewed trainers in favour of a nice pair of Manolos.

It might sound like lunacy, but bear in mind this latest craze comes from the gym which brought the world Cardio Striptease a workout where stripping meets aerobics.

But there is, according to its creators, method in this apparent madness.

The whole point of Stiletto Strength is to help women get their pins back in shape after a summer in sensible flats.

Developed with the help of professional dancers and podiatrists, the focus is on strengthening feet, ankles, calf and corestability muscles to ensure perfect alignment when walking in stilettos.

Although one strengthening section of the 45-minute class, dubbed leg-work, can be done in trainers, the rest of the session requires strapping on your highest heels.

Women are then taught how to strut with the grace of a supermodel.

While Crunch, the gym behind Stiletto Strength, claims the workout can help protect the lower spine and back and improve posture and self confidence, there are many here who have doubts.

Podiatrists and physiotherapists agree that regularly wearing vertiginous heels can cause postural problems, trapped nerves, deformed feet and, according to recent claims, even fertility problems.

And if the reaction of Mary Sassi, manager of Fitness First, Brighton, is anything to go by, the stiletto workout might not get such a warm welcome on this side of the Atlantic.

"It sounds lethal and I certainly wouldn't advise it," she says.

"Yes, it would probably tone up calf muscles but the thought of doing any kind of exercise in a pair of stilettos is frightening.

"It may come to Brighton but I don't think I'd be inviting it here. I understand the principal behind it, but the health and safety of our members isparamount. Exercising in a pair of high heels would definitely do more harm than good."

So while it looks like the stiletto workout might not be hitting Brighton anytime soon, those who want to see what all the fuss is about can log on to www.crunch.com