Fitness fads waft by on a daily basis. Sometimes we sit up and pay attention (did wine yoga ever actually exist) and other times we bat the idea away with the simple excuse ‘it’s not really my thing’.
Then came an exercise class that allowed us to sit down, and everyone was interested. That’s right, we’re talking about spinning. Quickly and brutally we discovered that you can’t actually sit down – not for more than 3 seconds anyway, unless you fancy being shouted at by an overenthusiastic instructor with neon wristbands and a wild look in his eye. Lights are dimmed, music is turned up, and for the next 45-60 minutes you wonder if you’re experiencing multiple organ failure.
The hilarious thing is, we love it! Maybe even more than the casual riverside cycle we thought we were signing up for. Not only is the torturous exercise low impact and high intensity, it burns between 500 and 700 calories per hour. What’s more, London biking enthusiasts can get their weekly wheel-ride in without being flattened by a big red bus.
Chances are, you’ve already found your local spinning ground. But what if you move house? Or you do something really embarrassing in front of all your spin pals? Or, heaven forbid, you’ve never actually tried a spinning class. This list of the best spots in London is for you. Cleats at the ready…
Psycle
Where? Mortimer Street, Canary Wharf, Shoreditch, Clapham
What? Dotted around the city, these popular, fun classes are run by a team of over 30 instructors, equipped to motivate you through either 45, 60, or even 90 minute classes. Expect to leave pumped with endorphins.
Class Price: £20 for one session
Another Space
Where? Covent Garden, Bank
What? With a full-on cardio focus, these 45-minute spin workouts are created to burn maximum calories. You’ll need a treat after all that hard work, so it’s great that the studio also serves protein-packed smoothies, organic pressed juices and nutrient-rich snacks.
Class Price: £20 for one session
The Cyclub
Where? Hampstead
What? A pay-as-you-go studio in North London for the whole family. Teen classes are great for younger siblings, themed rides appeal to all generations and a half-term babysitting service keeps little ones entertained while you work up a sweat.
Class Price: £14.50 for one session
1Rebel
Where? Broadgate, Southbank, Bayswater, Broadgate, St Mary Axe
What? Picture a nightclub – flashing neon lights and all, tonnes of sweat, but no hangover (just a very real muscle ache), and you have 1Rebel. If you want to carry on the party at home, their pumping playlist is also available on Spotify.
Class Price: £22 for one session
Third Space
Where? City, Tower Bridge, Soho, Canary Wharf, Marylebone
What? Competitive riders will love the Poweride class which displays your cycle ‘score’ on a leaderboard. It’ll motivate you to chase down that front-cycler and improve on your personal best. Not your thing? There are three other classes to choose from, too.
Class Price: £155-£185 for one month’s membership
Dog House
Where? Balham
What? Using your non-existent dogsitter as an excuse to not exercise? Well, this spinning studio also welcomes your canine companion. The pups are free to roam the lobby/café area while you get back on track.
Class Price: £18 for one session
Boom Cycle
Where? Holborn, Hammersmith
What? If you thrive of positivity and encouragement, then this is the studio for you. The high-energy atmosphere, happy instructors, motivational music and the occasional high five will inspire you to try your very best.
Class Price: £18 for one session
Ride Republic
Where? Fulham
What? No frills, no gimmicks, just hard-hitting, fat burning, cardiovascular classes that get results. You have two choices – 45 minutes or 60 minutes..go on, we dare you.
Class Price: £20 for one session
