When it’s time to kick your health and fitness into gear, London is always the best place to do this. So whether you’re into HIIT or Hatha, take your pick from Shona Wallace’s line up of health and fitness classes
NORTH LONDON
1 Fierce Grace Yoga, Primrose Hill
London’s hot yoga scene is ever evolving, but if you are beginning to get bored of traditional Bikram, make a beeline for Fierce Grace. The studios are peppered all over the capital, but we’ve got a real soft spot for the classes in Primrose Hill. Offering six variations of the Fierce Grace theme, the classes are suitable for even budding and expert yogis alike. We would recommend the traditional Fierce Grace class— the original and the best, it’s the perfect starting point. Afterwards make your way to Manna for a delicious vegetarian refuel – it’d be rude not to. fiercegraceprimrosehill.com
2 Barry’s Bootcamp, Euston
Housed in Euston, Barry’s Bootcamp is a killer class with an A-list following. Reputedly Victoria Beckham’s favourite fitness studio, Barry’s high intensity workouts combine 25-30 minutes of interval training with 25-30 minutes of strength training. Burning around 1000 calories in just an hour, it’s ideal for those looking for instant, incredible results. Take note: an east London studio is launching soon. barrysbootcamp.com/london
SOUTH LONDON
3 BodyBarre, Chelsea
Less pirouette, more plié, BodyBarre is the latest addition to Lomax Chelsea’s schedule. Led by Paola Di Lanzo, arguably the best in the business, the fun and effective session works to hone and tone the core, while also bringing in elements of cardio to burn calories and boost general wellbeing. Go for PBB Blast to get the heart pumping. lomaxpt.com
4 The Grid, Clapham
Nestled in the Old Town, Clapham Common’s Virgin Active centre is one of our favourite gyms in London. Launching this month is The Grid, an agility-inspired class combining cardio, strength training and coordination. A good choice for time-pushed office types, you can choose from Grid Active, Grid Lean, Grid Strong and Grid Fit to suit your fitness goals. virginactive.co.uk/thegrid
5 Prehab at Grace Belgravia, Belgravia
Whatever your workout style, Grace Belgravia’s Prehab is a must. Devised to ensure you get the most from your workout, Grace’s trainers will help you understand your body, minimising injuries and maximising results. Afterwards, stick around for a super-healthy salad lunch at the incredible Grace café- every little thing is as delicious as it is nutritious. gracebelgravia.com
WEST LONDON
6 BePilates, Marylebone
When it comes to Pilates, BePilates is the only name to know. Based in Marylebone, BePilates is unique in its intimate approach to training. A million miles from packed gym halls, BePilates’ sessions are for a maximum of four to ensure you get the most from the waist-whittling practice. We’re calling it haute Pilates. be-pilates.co.uk
7 FORM, Notting Hill
In a similar vain is FORM in Notting Hill. If you go expecting gentle core work, you may be in for a bit of a shock. Fusing a reformer Pilates routine with an 8 minute burst of HIRT (high intensity resistance training), FORM’s classes will shock your body into shape. Though you may struggle to walk up Portobello Road afterwards, these tricky classes are incredibly rewarding. If you take a morning session, nip to NAMA after for a slice of vegan pizza and a virtuous sweet treat – you’ve earned it. formstudios.co.uk
EAST LONDON
8 VOGA, various
East London is the only place to go for fun, kooky fitness classes. Fans of yoga and dance will delight in the 80s-inspired VOGA classes. Fusing traditional yoga practice with Voguing moves, VOGA has garnered a cult fitness following and is offering a new class at The Refinery, soon to launch in Hackney. If you can’t wait till then, pop head to the first ever VOGA Night Out at Babonniere club on 27 March. vogalondon.com
9 Frame, Shoreditch
On that note, Frame’s 80s aerobics classes are so enjoyable you will forget you are exercising. Combining high energy moves inspired by aerobics championships with mat and weight training, the superb instructors will get your body in tip-top shape to a fantastic 80s dance soundtrack. With classes every Wednesday night, it’s our choice for a midweek workout. Frame also operates in Queen’s Park. moveyourframe.com
10 Yoga at the Shard, London Bridge
Last but not least, when spring really sets in be sure to book in for a sky high yoga session at The View from The Shard. Hosted by Yogasphere, the classes take place in a glass room, offering unrivalled views of the city. Rewarding and relaxing, the breathtaking views make this a sunny Sunday must. And just think of the yoga selfie opportunities! yogasphere.eu
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