Back in the bad old days, the sole goal of a sweaty workout session was to lose weight. Nowadays, though, women hit the gym for any number of reasons: to boost confidence, to de-stress, to get fit… and to, above all else, get strong.

As Lisa Smosarski, editor-in-chief at Stylist, notes: “We watch trends closely at Stylist and we have seen a real growth in women strength training – for body, for mind and as a way of reclaiming a traditionally male space.

“This trend challenges the idea of exercising for a specific body shape but instead embraces exercise for general health and wellness as well as boosting confidence and mental health.”

In short, strength-training is brilliant. However, stepping into the spit and sawdust atmosphere of the weights room at the local gym can be incredibly daunting – which is why Stylist has announced the launch of a women’s fitness studio and brand, Stylist Strong.

The first Stylist Strong studio – a boutique fitness space, offering smart, class-based workouts – has opened in London’s most exciting new members’ club, The AllBright Mayfair.

Aimed at busy women who are interested in building their physical and mental strength, the studio hosts classes, events, talks and panel discussions on fitness and strength-training. Even more exciting, though, is its tailored programme created by Nike Global Master Trainer Joslyn Thompson Rule, which has been carefully designed to encourage and inspire women of all physical strengths.

“I spend a lot of my time educating women on the importance of strength training for every aspect of their lives,” says Joslyn. “But the educational piece can still be limited in terms of delivery and there is still a little stigma around lifting weights.

Joslyn continues: “I am both honoured and incredibly excited to be part of Stylist Strong, they have given me a platform to spread my passion – getting women unapologetically stronger. Women’s training is undergoing a refreshing and much needed reboot on every level, this is just the beginning.”

Speaking about Stylist’s new fitness venture, Lisa adds: “We are so excited to launch a safe space for women to explore this brand new fitness programme, in a format that works for our audience of busy, urban women who want to feel strong in every sense.”

What kinds of classes are on offer?

Currently there are four types of classes that you can attend at the Stylist Strong studio, each one focused on empowering women to be stronger mentally and physically. 

‘Classic’ (‘I am strong’)

You already understand the importance of strength training and are ready to delve deeper. We work through large compound movements, so the ‘big lifts’ are executed safely and confidently using free weights.

Accessory exercises balance out the core programme, layering in true full-body strength. Stylist Strong Classic allows you to build on solid foundations in strength, driving you towards better movement – every single session.

This class is suitable for all levels.

‘Everyday’ (‘I want to be strong’) 

You’re ready to start your journey into strength training supported by a team that will lead you to better day to day movement. Taking the key elements from our ‘Classic’ programme and building solid foundations in movement, we focus on body balance using free weights.

Stylist Strong Everyday opens the door to the incredible world of strength training, reducing movement imbalances and future-proofing your body.

This class is suitable for all levels.

‘Performance’ (‘I need to be strong’) 

Stylist Strong Performance is a strength training class that will simulate the physical and mental demands needed to perform stronger for longer, fully optimising where your incredible body and mind can take you.

Taking the key elements from our ‘Classic’ and ‘Everyday’ programmes, we combine mindset, power development and free weights-adapted lifting complexes.

This class is suitable for people who love a physical challenge and are looking to progress their strength and conditioning.

How much are classes?

You can drop in whenever you like for £18, or if you’re already an AllBright member this price is discounted to £16. 

How often are classes?

Classes run Monday to Friday at times that we think will benefit women in full-time jobs, this means early morning time slots like 7am and 8am, lunch time slots like 12.15pm and 1.15pm and after work slots like 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

You can see the full Stylist Strong timetable and book on to a class yourself here.

Image: Getty