5 New Fitness Studios Worth Getting Sweaty Over
This might be the season for indulgence, but that doesn’t mean that we have to forget about the gym as tempting as it might be. As the nights draw in, the mornings get colder and we start breakfasting on mince pies, now is just the time we should be getting more exercise in to combat rising stress levels that surround Christmas and the risk of lower mental moods from the dark weather. Here are five new gyms you need to check out this winter.
FirstLight Cycle
Cycle Into the Light
Light has the power to motivate and stimulate us, unfortunately the UK doesn’t really get enough sunlight each year and at night we’re keeping our brains awake with the light from screens. However, celebrity trainer Mark Anthony’s boutique cycle studio, FirstLight, is on a mission to deliver the light stimulation you need whatever time of the day. Each 45 and 60 minute full body cycle workout is set in a darkened room with the instructor riding in front of a 30ft screen that will transport you to different destinations so you’re not just riding against a brick wall. Head there before work to ride through the dawn to invigorate you for the day ahead, feel the energising light for a midday boost or go after work and cycle through the slowly evening light to help your body produce the sleep-enhancing hormone, melatonin. Not only are you cycling but you’ll also incorporate weights and upper body exercises and in some classes mindfulness and meditation. It’s like spinning…but better.
Where: Westfield London, Ariel Way, Shepherds Bush, W12 7GF
Website: www.firstlightcycle.co.uk
SW3AT
Wanna See You SW3AT
Have you ever been to a gym class where you’re packed in like sardines? You’re all vying for space, trying not to take each other out as you lunge, you’re hiding how hard you’re actually trying because it’s not like the fitness instructor can actually see you and if you’re getting it wrong you just sort of bounce around for a bit? Yep not fun.
That’s why SW3AT is different, they only have six people per class. It might sound intimidating but it means that no one’s form goes unnoticed, you can get direct help and you’re not going to be the one slacking so you’ll put more effort in. Each 45 minute workout will have you performing multiple intervals, with 12-20 minutes of the class where you’ll be training at 84% or higher of your maximum heart rate which will boost the amount of calories you burn throughout and after the class.
Where: 529A, Finchley Road, West Hampstead, NW3 7BG
Website: www.sw3atstudio.com
H20 HIIT at Fitness First
Move Over Water Aerobics
So technically it isn’t a new studio, but we wanted to let you know that there is a new water class you need to get involved with. Ever seen the water aerobics going on but felt like it might be a little too tame? This one isn’t, this is HIIT but in a pool. Expect a 45 minute medium intensity class that burns calories and lots of them. The class is made up of five circuit stations and includes group drills and challenges each with a different focus including resistance, cardio, fight, core and swimming as many lengths as possible. Expect to use dumbbells, kickboards, noodles and even boxing gloves.
Where: Various Nationwide
Website: www.dwfitnessfirst.com
The Engine Room
Rowing in Church
As an ex-rower it pains me to see how some people use the rowing machine, as condescending as that may sound. If you’re not sure on your technique or just want a really good work out then we have just the thing for you: The Engine Room. Recently opened in a Grade II listed church in central London, they’ve teamed up with multiple-time World Champion British Rower, Matthew
Tarrant, who will be leading several classes, offering advice and guidance on rowing technique. There’s a specially designed app you can use the SKILLROW ™ by Technogym® which is the first gym rowing machine that will improve anaerobic power, aerobic capacity and neuromuscular abilities in one, it’s an all over body work out. The setting is pretty impressive too, they’ve worked with award-winning Bergman Interiors to create a club that is just as much about finesse as it is fitness with Lululemon active wear, luxury products and a grab and go bar.
Where: St Bedes Hall Off Albany Street, Euston, NW1 4EE
Website: www.theengineroomlondon.com
Mindset
Mind, Body and Sweat
Being healthy doesn’t just mean being physical fit, your mental and emotional health is just as important. Step in Mindset, Waterloo’s new gym that encourages its users to build the best version of themselves by promoting total fitness and wellbeing. They have divided total fitness into five categories: physical, mental, emotional, social and nutritional fitness so that as well as getting explosive classes you’ll also find meditation, experts in mental health and classes for and by women.
Where: 1 Lower Marsh, Waterloo, SE1 7NT
Website: www.mindsetfit.co.uk
