Any fitness fanatic worth their spandex will tell you the days of texting on the treadmill or lolling around on the leg press are over. Exercise is getting more extreme; that much became clear earlier this year when a Farringdon gym introduced a class so difficult they needed a paramedic on standby.
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is now a well-established method of training for the toned and time-poor, combining periods of intense activity with shorter spells of rest for maximum burn in minimum time.
But those seeking the kind of brutal burn that sees sweat mixed with tears should either have their heads read or pay a visit to GymClass. The West London boutique fitness studio has a new Spitalfields offshoot spruiking one of the hardest workouts in London.
What is it?
GymClass combines athletic HIIT and strength training to burn fat, whilst developing core strength, flexibility and balance. Launched in Holland Park in 2015, GymClass quickly commanded a band of loyal followers, leading to a second branch targeting sweat-seeking City workers. Expect to burn between 700 and 1,000 calories in each 50-minute class at the hands of impossibly good looking and friendly trainers who abide by the ‘kill ’em with kindness’ ethos.
How does it work?
Each class is made up of HIIT cardio components like squat jumps, burpees, and mountain climbers, as well as targeted strength exercises using free weights, TRX and framework. The former burns fat, improves balance and agility and delivers serious after burn, while the latter creates long, lean muscles, strengthens bones and joints and reduces cellulite and saggy skin. There are two studios with various equipment and climbing frames, but machines are kept to a minimum to make sure you’re incorporating multiple planes of motion.
Why all the fuss?
Touted as one of London’s toughest workouts, GymClass was developed by former Barry’s Bootcamp trainer Helle Hammonds, who wanted to combine the results of personal training sessions with the positive vibes of a group fitness class. “It’s definitely one of the most intense classes you’ll find in London, but it’s also one of the friendliest,” Helle explains. True to form, trainers know the name of everybody in the class, yelling words of encouragement when they catch you trying to hide behind a punching bag. Helle herself is also known to jump in on a class, whooping and joking through the session to keep morale high. The energy is addictive, so much so that some clients are in the studio five times a week, although Helle says two to three sessions are enough to see optimal results.
How much?
A single class is £27, but first timers can try it out at the City studio for £10 until mid-April. Memberships start at £220 for a month of unlimited classes.
Where can I try it?
GymClass City, 50 Gun Street E1 6AH or visit gym-class.co.uk
