London seems to be home to a range of brand new “fitness destinations” each promising to offer the hottest and most unique work-out experience, so how do you distinguish the average from those who are really raising the bar? Don’t sweat it – we’re here to give you the lowdown on our new favourite gym spot, which we promise you is anything but ordinary.

Core Collective is a newly opened boutique studio situated just off Kensington High Street. We first heard their name whispered on the Instagram grapevine and knew we just had to jog along for a taster session. On entering, our first thoughts were how it felt impossibly cool (think cocktail lounge more -than gym). With its polished concrete walkways and its spacious lounge and café area (perfect for pre- or post-workout socialising) it felt understated but luxurious. Plus, the studio is also bedecked with a selection of contemporary artwork that’s rotated throughout the year.

So besides the art gallery and gorgeous interior, Core Collective also distinguishes itself from other gyms because surprisingly, you don’t need a membership. Instead you pay for blocks of five, ten or twenty classes. They also specialise in only three types, so you’re sure to receive the best workout possible.

Our first taster class was ‘Accelerate’ taken in the night club-esque spinning studio. The class offers straight up spinning and promises “High energy with soundtrack and instructors to match.” Naturally we were a little nervous, but honestly needn’t be. Core’s head trainer, James Pisano, led the class and whilst pushed us physically, we felt encouraged rather than terrified!

Twenty minutes later and feeling a little wobbly-legged, we hopped off to our next class, ‘Velocity’, which is a high intensity, athletic interval workout. Our trainer, Gilles, guided us through each exercise and promised to “get rid of what you don’t want and tone up what you do”.

Dying ever so slightly, we then went on to meet TRX guru Paddy, for our last class, ‘Resistance’. This workout is where stamina meets strength and our whole body was worked through a variety of exercises. There was an emphasis on strengthening the core and we just knew we would be aching later on (if we weren’t already… which, if we are being honest… we totally were).

Our brunch upstairs was then calling (thank gahhhh)! So after a luxurious shower (complete with fluffy two-metre towels and Bamford toiletries) we got to sample the yummiest menu made by Who Loves You, including an acai bowl, cold-pressed juices and a chia egg-white omelette  – yes, we were in health-junkie heaven!

Core Collective definitely showcases boutique fitness at its finest and if your quick, you can currently book your first class totally on them! Ladies, trust us when we say – it might just be your new temple. https://core-collective.co.uk

words by Madi Manners

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