The pop superstar jetted into Mexico City to unveil the first of her luxury fitness centers in a glamorous red carpet event, whose attendees included Marcelo Ebrard, the mayor of Mexico City, and his actress wife, Mariagna Pratts.The gym opening is seen as something of a positive shot in the arm for the city's image, which has been blighted by ongoing reports of drug-related violence. But Madonna, whose fitness center is located in the upscale Lomas Altas neighborhood, was unfazed as she greeted throngs of fans at the event.

"I've come to Mexico for years to do research, I love Mexican culture, architecture, food, music and art," she said. "A lot of places I go to are considered dangerous whether that's Tel Aviv or Rio, that never stops me from going somewhere to put on a show. I'm not hindered by that. I have good security and I'm not worried about it."Once inside the center, Madonna was greeted by an estimated 700 newmembers, who started the night drinking Gatorade, but soon progressedto imbibing the less fitness-friendly beverages on offer at the Grey Goose vodka stands. But, ever the disciplined one, Madonna handpickeda group of 20 members to join her in a dance classes, with music provided by British DJ Paul Oakenfold.

Plans are currently afoot for more centers to open in such locations as Russia, Brazil and Agrentina in the coming months. And potential members had better be prepared to dig deep into their pockets. Membership at the Mexico City location runs at around $160 a month - after a onetime $830 sign-up fee. Not much for many of the well-heeled guests in attendance at the opening, but for others it could prove to be quite a pricey investment. Said local singer and dancerBenjamin Cardozo on the night of the splashy event: "I've joined the gym just so I could attend this party, I can't really afford it, but I had to see Madonna in the flesh."