I have been meaning to get to FORM Studios for so long… and I now I have been, I am even more sorry it has taken me so long! Here’s why I fell in love with FORM!
THE CONCEPT
FORM Studios signature class is called METcore – which is a 50 minute class based around a gadget called a MOTR and then 8 minutes of HIIT at the end of the session. The MOTR is basically a roller with pullies and straps coming off – similar to the concept of a reformer pilates machine. These are in use in the US but FORM are the first to introduce them to the UK and therefore they have created an incredibly unique class.
THE CLASS
To be honest I was expecting an experience very similar to reformer pilates… which I like but don’t adore… however, due to a few recent injuries I have been encouraged to incorporate more pilates style exercise into my routine so I went prepared for this. However, FORM is definitely not just a pilates class – it is probably better categorised as more of a full body conditioning class… and in my humble opinion a lot more fun! The MOTR machine does operate in a similar way to reformer machine but due to the roller in the middle every exercise you do you are also having to balance and stabilise, using many more muscles in order to do so. The class moves quickly, there is no time for boredom and it is not overly repetitive, which I love! Just so you know – you will sweat and your muscles will burn! In the METcore class once you have completed the majority of the session on the MOTR, attentions are turned to what they call ‘SPEED 8’ which is 8 minutes of HIRT. (High Intensity Resistance Training) This is done in a circuit form using apparatus such as TRX, Kettlebells, and a ‘SKierg’ which is a Nordic ski simulator gadget (very fun but tough to do it well!) You really have to search deep during this last section but it is worth it as you feel pretty amazing afterwards! In fact, on their website FORM explain the effect of SPEED 8…
On top of the amazing, fat burning cardio boost, your body will receive an all-natural, anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing chemical release! A powerful cocktail of all natural hormones that rebuild and repair your body and brain.
In addition the the signature METcore class they also offer ‘Pure MOTR’ which is a class entirely on the MOTR and also ‘FORM HIIT’ which is taking ‘SPEED 8’ and turning it into a whole, super hardcore HIIT class!
Imogen showing us how it’s done! Here’s hoping that one day I may be able to be even half as graceful!
SO, IN AT NUTSHELL…
I loved it – it is unique, fun and the class is challenging. After only 3 sessions I can feel myself improving on the MOTR (seriously I fell off like 35 times in the first class!) I can see how it is going to massively compliment my workout regime as it is going to strengthen, tone AND improve my balance which has been really affected by an ankle injury, so if you are rehabilitating from something similar it is great.
I have had classes with Elissa (the owner and founder of FORM) and Imogen and they are both absolutely brilliant trainers – they are careful to correct your form if you are not quite engaging the right muscles, giving great individual attention to every single person in the class and both have really positive, inclusive and friendly energy, the vibe there is perfect for me. The studio is small, immaculate and clean and the equipment all in excellent condition. The class is best done with grippy socks – they sell some there for £10 if you don’t have any – I think you could just wear a normal pair of socks but since there is a lot for balance work on the MOTR you would definitely benefit from some extra grip.
The first class is free so no excuses – definitely go try it out!
HOW MUCH? 1st class is free then you can buy various packages. 5 classes are £125 – see their website for all the different options.
WHERE? 77A Lonsdale Road, London, W11 2DF
FIND OUT MORE: www.formstudios.co.uk
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