When and where
The Foundry’s Vauxhall studio, Mondays at 6.30pm.
What’s the drill?
A 45-minute bootcamp designed to burn fat using HIIT and resistance training. Don’t expect a fancy studio or treadmill sprints in the dark: this is a stripped-back, high-octane conditioning workout with battle ropes, Air-Dynes, Ski Ergs and sled pushes. The instructor, Will, talks you through each circuit and splits you into four or five mixed teams of four: you’ll move around the room together, taking turns to do box jumps and press-ups; pull-ups and sprints on the rower, and squatting with chains as a group. Expect cheering and team vibes: the group with the best calorie and rep count wins.
The skinny
This is one of the most punishing bootcamps in the capital so expect to feel the burn. It’s your team’s choice how you divvy up the workload but the group mentality means you won’t want to let your teammates down. There’s no avoiding the sweat — each circuit will have you dripping within minutes. You’ll barely have time to catch your breath.
The social network
The crowd is a mixed bag of young professionals and Crossfit types.
Instructor appeal
Will usually does the Monday class and though the bootcamp might seem intimidating, he is not.
He talks you through each circuit at the start of the class and cheers you on as you go, making sure everyone is pulling their weight.
The sounds
Will’s motivating soundtrack will keep you pushing through the pain.
What to pack
Bring your own towel, water bottle and products if you want to shower — facilities are limited and basic. Remember a padlock for the lockers.
Locker-room chat
Regulars go for the workout, not the changing rooms, so don’t expect free deodorant or Dyson hairdryers. There’s one toilet and functional showers with small towels, so best to bring your own. On the other side of the gym there’s a basic locker room for storing your bags.
Tips for first timers
Show up at least 15 minutes before and leave plenty of time to find it.
The afterburn
The clue is in the name: you’ll leave dripping. Work hard and you’ll still be struggling to lift your arms two days later.
From £20/class, foundryfit.com
