{"id":402410,"date":"2026-01-11T10:51:16","date_gmt":"2026-01-11T10:51:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/402410\/"},"modified":"2026-01-11T10:51:16","modified_gmt":"2026-01-11T10:51:16","slug":"londons-swankiest-exercise-classes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/402410\/","title":{"rendered":"London\u2019s swankiest exercise classes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Here we are again, at that critical, make-or-break fitness juncture. Will you be the smug person who\u2019s still keeping up their January wellbeing resolutions come autumn, or will you falter and revert to the default position \u2014 on the sofa, with toast?<\/p>\n

If you would like to improve your fitness this year, one way to help ensure commitment is a really nice workout studio (and wearing really, really nice workout gear<\/a>). After all, not all exercise classes are created equal. The scene has to feel clean and modern, the instructors have to be motivating without being annoying, and the music has to make you want to keep going \u2014 even when your glutes are trembling and your arms feel like jelly. <\/p>\n

So we have put on our Lycra and compiled a list of some of the best studios and classes out there. Give them a go and one day you might become one of those special students the instructors call out to compliment by name. Now that is a real luxury. <\/p>\n

The Method\"Studio<\/p>\n

The Method<\/p>\n

RACHEL TAKES PICTURES<\/p>\n

The latest exercise club to galvanise Westbourne Grove\u2019s fitness-obsessed masses is The Method. Designed to elevate your energy levels and provide an uplifting experience rather than a simply exhausting one, The Method offers four exclusive class concepts taught by instructors who fuse techniques from the worlds of ballet, yoga, HIIT and pilates. D-Flow is a low-impact, high-intensity training programme focused on toning muscle, while Blast is the sweatiest class on offer, designed to burn calories and boost your endurance. Dancers will love The Method\u2019s take on barre, Ballet Boost, and the cardio heavy, endorphin-promoting Beat cardio class.<\/p>\n

The Method has big plans for expansion this summer, upping their one-studio location to a new site (a couple of doors down) with the capacity for a full wellness space including three studios, two recovery rooms, a wet-spa, infrared sauna, cold plunge, outdoor terrace, private lounge and a nutritious menu overseen by the executive chef of Nathalie Mayfair, Yago Crego. Until then, you can join the beautiful people breezing in and out of The Method\u2019s caf\u00e9 for a customised, protein-packed smoothie or an almost-too-pretty-to-eat salad post-workout.
Classes begin at \u00a335, themethod.com<\/a><\/p>\n

JAB Boxing\"NINTCHDBPICT000962357426\"<\/p>\n

JAB was founded by George Veness, a former professional boxer and coach to celebrities like Lily Allen, Justin Theroux and Emilia Clarke. The original studio opened in Mayfair in 2020, and was replaced by a new space that opened in Victoria at the end of 2024, offering boxing courses that mix in HIIT and strength training, with sessions lasting 45 minutes.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s one of the coolest fitness hubs in London, with a DJ stand and huge vinyl collection at the entrance. The space has a 1970s inspired, loungey vibe that makes you want to hang around after class and chat with the good-looking people milling about. There is also a sauna and cold plunge available for private bookings and large changing rooms with Dysons so you can leave with a bouncy blow-out to complement your freshly toned body. There are also delicious smoothies to help you fuel up following your workout. <\/p>\n

The space feels buzzy without feeling overwhelming, and the merch (think T-shirts, socks, shorts, hats and sweatshirts) is cool enough that you want to buy it to show off that you\u2019re in the know about JAB (even if you are the worst boxer in your class).
Classes begin at \u00a326, jabboxing.club<\/a><\/p>\n

Tracy Anderson at Surrenne\"NINTCHDBPICT000962358381\"<\/p>\n

Tracy Anderson at Surrenne<\/p>\n

This workout class is a favourite of the Hollywood set (Gwyneth Paltrow is a longtime devotee), and offers a unique class format that fuses dance, Pilates and strength training with ever-changing choreography (\u201cthe body demands change\u201d Anderson says on her website). You move in unexpected ways during the class, and the modelesque instructors glide through the motions silently, meaning you have to pay close attention. The room is kept at a steamy 30C and hovers around 70 per cent humidity. Plus the music is blasting. Though this sounds unappealing, and you may feel a little wobbly at the beginning, the combination helps get you motivated because your senses are so engaged. Before you know it you\u2019re flowing to the beat and the sweat (which will quickly start pouring off you) will remind you how hard you\u2019re working.<\/p>\n

Anderson\u2019s London HQ is situated in the members-only wellness club Surrenne. The space is modern and chic with soothing mood lighting. The studio for Anderson\u2019s class is made specifically for her program, and is fitted with flooring that has a slight bounce to it, making it much more comfortable (and fun) to do the hopping, twisting and bending motions required. Though guests at the Berkeley and Emory hotels can also join in on sessions, it feels intimate compared to the main studio in New York, where the 30 or 60-minute classes are roughly double the size. <\/p>\n

Though it can take a moment to figure out what the heck is going on the first few times you attend one of Anderson\u2019s classes, particularly those that use unique props like wooden polls and bands hanging from the ceiling, you will feel amazing by the end of them. You cover cardio, strengthening and lengthening exercises, all the while sweating like you\u2019ve just spent three hours in a sauna.
Membership begins at \u00a310,000, surrenne.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Soho Health Club at 180 House\"NINTCHDBPICT001011610563\"<\/p>\n

Soho Health Club introduces boutique fitness classes in a sleek environment<\/p>\n

Soho House\u2019s latest London fitness hub, Soho Health Club at 180 House, introduces a full schedule of boutique fitness classes in a sleek environment. Members can access the gym\u2019s mirrored studio through an original vault door and inside will find classes ranging from restorative breathwork and vinyasa yoga to high-intensity sessions like Floor 4 and BodyMax, aimed at boosting cardiovascular endurance and building lean muscle. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s also home to Soho House\u2019s first dedicated classical Pilates studio, where the expert Nathalie Clough of LifeBody Studios oversees sessions using traditional apparatus including Wunda Chairs (originally designed by Joseph Pilates himself), towers and barrels. This spring-resistance equipment enables deep, controlled movement to build strength, flexibility and balance while precision sculpting the body. With only five towers per class, sessions are deliberately intimate, offering the sort of hands-on guidance that sharpens your technique and deepens your grasp of each pose. Sessions have a lengthening focus and you\u2019re likely to feel about 10 feet taller once you finish your session.
Local House memberships start at \u00a32,400 per year, sohohouse.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Nobu Pilates\"NINTCHDBPICT000962358259\"<\/p>\n

Reformer Pilates at Nobu Hotel<\/p>\n

Located inside the Nobu Hotel in Portman Square, this bright, airy studio founded by Marsha Lindsay is home to classical Pilates classes. The studio offers three variations: Power, Precision and Pure. The Power class is a high-energy, full-body, more HIIT-focused workout; the Precision session targets specific muscle groups; Pure uses all of the Pilates equipment available at the studio for a full-body blast that also focuses on posture and core strengthening. Nobu Pilates reformer machines are a step above what you might find at other studios. They use a \u201cpilates tower\u201d which has springs instead of straps for your arms and legs and additional bars which allow you to try even more movements on the equipment. These additional elements can be great for mobility and can also make for a more challenging class. Nobu\u2019s Pilates instructors are classically trained on all kinds of Pilates equipment and because classes are capped at ten people, you really can\u2019t get away with bad form. Regular visits here and you\u2019ll surely emerge with the lengthened and toned body Pilates is famous for achieving.
Classes begin at \u00a337, nobuhotels.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Psycle \"NINTCHDBPICT000962358343\"<\/p>\n

Psycle offers an all-round high-end exercise experience<\/p>\n

One of London\u2019s original luxury class offerings, Psycle is still the place to go if you\u2019re looking for an all-round high-end exercise experience. The instructors are experienced and know how to keep the energy in the room high for classes that run between 45 and 90 minutes, whether that\u2019s at one of their high-intensity spin sessions, a reformer class or a soothing yoga class. The instructors are also known for themed classes, particularly the Taylor Swift ride, which books out almost immediately \u2014 although you can guarantee the music will be well executed, whichever class you\u2019re in. <\/p>\n

If you want a dynamic work out but also want to integrate heavier weights, Psycle\u2019s newest offering is worth checking out. This mat based class, held in purpose built studios heated to 37 C with infrared lights, combines barre and strength training, using ankle weights as well as dumbbells and power rings (weighted rings). The dark room, red light, heat and fun music mean that, although the class is challenging, you\u2019re tuned in enough that time flies. Not only do you leave the 50 minute class feeling stronger but you get the added benefit of quicker recovery thanks to the infrared light.<\/p>\n

There is a caf\u00e9 selling protein packed smoothies, quick snacks and coffees, so you can fuel up before or after your workout. Plus Psycle has locations in Shoreditch, Oxford Circus, Bank, Notting Hill, Clapham and Victoria, so you can keep up the good work wherever you find yourself in London.
Classes begin at \u00a326, psyclelondon.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Legree at Studio Fix\"NINTCHDBPICT000962357488\"<\/p>\n

The megaformer machine at Studio Fix<\/p>\n

JERMAINE BINNS<\/p>\n

You\u2019ve heard of reformer Pilates, sure. But have you heard of a megaformer machine? That\u2019s what Lagree uses to run its 45-minute classes, which the founder Sebastian Lagree says he based on the reformer machine, not Pilates. Lagree is high intensity but, thanks to the various straps and pulleys, also manages to have a low impact on your body similar to traditional reformer Pilates.<\/p>\n

Your heart will be thumping and there will be sweat in the dimly lit space at the sleek Studio Fix gym opened in Kensington in 2024 (the gym also offers barre, boxing, strength training, yoga, HIIT and mat Pilates). And there are mirrors everywhere, which the more toned and experienced practitioners do enjoy watching themselves in. <\/p>\n

If it\u2019s good enough for Michelle Obama, a fan, it\u2019s good enough for us.
Legree at Studio Fix begins at \u00a335, studiofix.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n

Karve \"NINTCHDBPICT001046374533\"<\/p>\n

The reformer beds in Karve in Kensington<\/p>\n

The transformer revolution has hit London, and those who prefer this heavier, more challenging version of a traditional reformer class will enjoy Karve\u2019s offering. The studios, which can be found in Victoria, South Kensington and Chelsea, are filled with mirrors and moodily lit, and the reformer beds are purpose built for the Karve curriculum. Each session lasts 50 minutes and focuses on endurance, so newbies may find themselves struggling with soreness the next day, but thanks to the intimate class size (there are only 12 reformer beds per session) you can trust your instructor will be watching your form. Expect to encounter some Karve acolytes who will make it all look very easy while you quiver. The good news is that it\u2019s a low-impact routine that will keep your joints happy while your muscles work hard. <\/p>\n

Karve has a caf\u00e9 with coffees, teas and protein-rich smoothies to refuel after class, and work spaces to catch up on emails. There is also a private studio available for individual or small group bookings.
\u00a336 for a single class credit, karve.club<\/a><\/p>\n

Yours Pilates\"NINTCHDBPICT001046375441\"<\/p>\n

Yours Pilates uses infrared light and ergonomic weights<\/p>\n

Yours Pilates offers hot Pilates and hot sculpt classes with a focus on targeted areas such as arms and abs or glutes. Each class is heated with infrared light and uses cream-coloured, ergonomic weights, so even as you\u2019re sweating through the challenging routines you will be soothed by your chic surroundings. <\/p>\n

Yours has two sleek studios in Hackney and Shoreditch and a third in Marbella for those hoping to stay fit on holiday. First-timers are given a pair of Yours branded sticky socks and the studios are kitted out with electrolytes to drop into your water before or after class. The good looking crowd will be wearing matching workout gear and stylish accessories, so you might want to up your game for this one.
\u00a326 for a single class credit, yours-space.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Paola\u2019s Body Barre at KXU \"NINTCHDBPICT001011610490\"<\/p>\n

Paola\u2019s Body Barre is a fusion Pilates method<\/p>\n

Created by the Australian Paola di Lanzo 11 years ago, Paola\u2019s Body Barre is a fusion Pilates method. This means traditional mat Pilates routines are coupled with balls, weights, bands and elements of yoga and barre to create a combination routine which has the lengthening effects of traditional Pilates with extra strengthening elements. The class is also designed to improve flexibility. Di Lanzo is a no nonsense instructor who keeps a sharp eye on students to make sure that they are in the correct positions. The toning results of the workout mean that the class is full of regulars \u2014 di Lanzo calls them out by name, always a good sign that you\u2019re likely to get the most out of each 50-minute workout. Di Lanzo is also quick to offer adjustments and encourages students to listen to their bodies about how far to push themselves during class. <\/p>\n

Since creating her initial offering di Lanzo has added an additional seven iterations ranging from classes with a post-natal focus to classes concentrating on the glutes. Her PBB Hot method has recently launched at Chelsea\u2019s KXU gym, off Pavilion Road, where the sculpting class takes place in a room heated to 30 degrees. In addition to a range of workout classes from Pilates to strength and yoga, the gym also offers PT and nutrition sessions as well a range of treatments to help support recovery and progress. These include cryotherapy, infrared saunas, massages and even facials.
Classes start at \u00a329, kxu.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n

Barry\u2019s \"NINTCHDBPICT000962356100\"<\/p>\n

Barry\u2019s Bootcamp is for the hardcore<\/p>\n

An old faithful, Barry\u2019s is for the hardcore who enjoy both running and weight training (and being yelled out in a martial yet encouraging way).<\/p>\n

The workout is a combination of interval sprints on the treadmill and weight training, switching between them three or four times a class. The studio has dark, moody lighting and loud music that helps you tune out the outside world and focus on the workout. While it\u2019s not for the faint of heart, those who go to the class are devoted, and unlike some of its counterparts the studio hasn\u2019t waned in popularity, despite opening in 1998. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s a global brand with spaces in big cities around the world, including London, Singapore, LA, Dubai, Oslo and New York City, so even jet-setters can keep up their routine.
Classes begin at \u00a326, barrys.com<\/a><\/p>\n

BLOK\"NINTCHDBPICT000962357309\"<\/p>\n

With studios in Clapton, Shoreditch, Leyton and Manchester, BLOK is a well-designed, modern-feeling studio. Various classes are on offer, like BLOKflex, which has a 50\/50 split between HIIT cardio training and deep stretching so you leave feeling both stronger and more flexible. The BLOKsculpt class is a combination of barre, yoga and HIIT that uses light weights and cardio to amp up your typical mat workout. At BLOKmove, \u201cflexibility, core strength and balance\u201d are the focus. The options run the full gamut \u2014 there\u2019s also boxing, calisthenics, reformer and even sound baths on offer. Classes are available on a one-off basis, so you can drop in when it feels right, though you may find yourself wanting to become a regular after trying a locally sourced snack from the caf\u00e9, or the sustainably minded products from H\u00e6ckels in the changing rooms.
Classes begin at \u00a321, bloklondon.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Lanserhof at the Arts Club \"NINTCHDBPICT001011609574\"<\/p>\n

Classes at Lanserhof at The Arts Club feel more like a private session<\/p>\n

Lanserhof at The Arts Club offers a reformer Pilates experience in a particularly cosy setting. With only three reformer machines in the studio, each class feels more like a private session than a group workout. This format allows instructors to provide detailed, individual guidance on posture, alignment and breathwork. The focus is on controlled, purposeful movement that enhances core strength, flexibility, and muscle tone while minimising strain. The class is challenging but it has the opposite feel to the dark, club-like atmosphere popular in exercise studios today. <\/p>\n

Pilates at Lanserhof is just one part of its data-driven approach to movement. If needed, advanced diagnostics \u2014 from metabolic testing to functional screenings \u2014 can inform and refine your training, making each session part of a personalised plan for long-term performance and recovery. The calm, clinical-chic environment reflects Lanserhof\u2019s commitment to health optimisation.<\/p>\n

For those serious about mastering their form, this is Pilates with a surgeon\u2019s level of precision.
Memberships start at \u00a36,500 per year and include group fitness classes, theartsclub.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n

Versa at Sweat by BXR\"NINTCHDBPICT000962358370\"<\/p>\n

The VersaClimber at BXR gym<\/p>\n

Sometimes to get excited about exercise you have to get creative. Versa, a climbing-inspired class, has taken this approach. It uses a machine called the VersaClimber that uses a 75-degree vertical rail with pedals and handles. Apparently Versaclimbing burns 22.3 calories per minute, compared to the 13-14 calories per minute you might burn on a treadmill or in a cycling class. This means a total 800 calorie burn in the span of 45 minutes, which is a pretty good return on investment if you ask us. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s also low impact, which means that you can improve fitness without damaging your joints. And fret not, the class also has all the nightclubby feel and fun music you need to keep the energy high for what is a highly challenging, effective muscle burn. <\/p>\n

BXR gym has spaces in Marylebone and the City, and each is home to a \u201cSweat by BXR\u201d studio, the offshoot that is focused on group classes. All have the dark moody lighting that makes you feel like you\u2019re part of a cool workout scene, and changing rooms are fitted with Malin & Goetz products and GHD hair tools. There\u2019s also a Joe and the Juice bar for a post-sweat snack.
Classes begin at \u00a330 for nonmembers, sweatbybxr.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Heartcore\"NINTCHDBPICT000962357431\"<\/p>\n

The Heartcore studio in St John\u2019s Wood<\/p>\n

Heartcore, with seven studios across London, offers reformer Pilates classes as well as infrared mat Pilates at its Bayswater location. The studios all have a different personality. The Chelsea studio is designed like a cool friend\u2019s living room, with indoor planters and gallery walls with trendy art, while the St John\u2019s Wood location is in an airy, whitewashed former church. No matter which studio you end up in, however, the classes are challenging but rejuvenating with a focus on the mind-body connection and traditional Pilates foundations. The instructors also really know what they\u2019re talking about. You can expect a fit and seasoned Pilates crowd at Heartcore (and possibly more yummy mummies than the average class).
Classes begin at \u00a335, weareheartcore.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Studio Anatomy\"NINTCHDBPICT001011611142\"<\/p>\n

Studio Anatomy is located in a minimalist haven<\/p>\n

A minimalist haven in the heart of Hackney, Studio Anatomy combines contemporary Pilates with a clean, modernist aesthetic. There are poured resin floors with mother-of-pearl flecks, oak joinery, lime plaster walls, boucl\u00e9 seating and soft natural light. It\u2019s like the team at The Row have turned their talents to interior design.<\/p>\n

Spread across two levels, the open-plan studio houses a bright reception area, semi-private changing rooms, two serene workout spaces, showers and a small retail area stocking kombucha, water, grip socks and lifestyle products. The reformer Pilates classes are offered across a tiered system to suit all levels, from Essentials to Power, which adds a jump-board to the routine. <\/p>\n

After their workout guests can also book into the dedicated infrared sauna room (available for solo or shared bookings) which can be synced to the soundtrack of your own Spotify playlist.
Classes start at \u00a328, studioanatomy.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Here we are again, at that critical, make-or-break fitness juncture. Will you be the smug person who\u2019s still…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":402411,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[37],"tags":[49,48,407,84],"class_list":{"0":"post-402410","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-fitness","8":"tag-ca","9":"tag-canada","10":"tag-fitness","11":"tag-health"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/402410","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=402410"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/402410\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/402411"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=402410"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=402410"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=402410"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}