Sweat It fitness class

If you like a gentle, slow-paced stretchy kind of exercise class in a serene studio, Sweat It is not for you. This Aldwych based boutique fitness concept is all about challenging yourself and, as the name suggests, working up a sweat. It's a full-on experience, designed to give you maximum results — whether the aim is to burn fat, build muscle or just keep fit. But thanks to the motivational trainer and fast-paced format, it's surprising how far your can push yourself, and how great you feel afterwards.

Tucked away on a side street just off The Strand, the underground studio space is all about stripped back cool: think graffitied walls, punchy motivational quotes, pumping music and very low lighting. Thankfully this macho aesthetic is balanced out by exceptionally well-stocked changing rooms: along with luxe La Bruket showergel, shampoo, conditoner and body lotion, there is deodorant hairspray, heat protection spay, hairclips, cotton wool... this list goes on. It's great for those who like to pack light.

The classes use High Intensity Interval Training and weight-based exercises to combine cardio and conditioning. The session is split between treadmill and 'rig station', which is essentially floor space with weights, resistance bands and gym equipment. You swap between the two, with the short, sharp six minute bursts making even the most challenging sprint or burpee reps feel manageable.

Classes vary, targeting a different body part each day in the weights section, while always including calorie-burning cardio from the run intervals. Heart and Hustle hones in on upper body, while Machine Guns promised to blast away bingo wines and sculpt out some muscle definition. Guts and Glory is all about pushing yourself and beating that personal best, so you can keep track of improvements as you attend more classes.

Sessions range between 40-60 minutes and are priced from £15.50 as part of a package plan, or £21 for a drop-in session.