The first thing that strikes when you walk into Stars Gym in Battersea is the custom boxing ring adorned with real championship medals.
Stars partner Richard Coates says the heavyweight bling provides inspiration for members including several world champs that frequent the gym. Recently Stars hosted a ‘Fight Night’ at Clapham Grand that drew a 500-strong crowd.
Clearly this fitness centre doesn’t pull any punches.
But I’m not here to box.
I’ve come down with my toddler to check out the shiny new gym that offers something extra for parents… an in-house crèche.
Every weekday morning from 9.30-11.30am, their open studio is transformed with toys, playmats and trained supervisors into the Mini Stars crèche (for ages 12 weeks to 4 years). Mum or dad can enjoy a workout, spa treatment and/or sauna while their little ones are taken care of on site.
I park the pushchair in the adjacent studio and it takes about 2 minutes to settle Jed in to the crèche. He barely waves at me as Richard leads me out to inspect the gym.
Stars is a lean, modern, open-plan gym that’s light years away from your typical grungy sweat box.
Founded by four friends that are passionate about wellbeing, the philosophy at Stars is holistic – there are not only personal trainers but also a nutritionist, osteopath and in-house physio (in case you pull a hamstring in Kick Fit class).
The therapy room offers adjustable mood lighting and a range of soothing aromatherapy and massage treatments. I could do with a quick nap on the treatment bed, but Richard is dashing up the winding staircase to show me the view from upstairs.
Here Richard impresses me with his skills on the rotating climbing wall, one of the gym’s quirky features. Other training equipment includes weights, spin bikes, Power Plates and state-of-the-art cardio machines.
Stars Gym has a social atmosphere and, aside from having ‘me time’, this would make a good spot to meet up with mums and maybe catch a Zumba class!
Battersea’s a bit of a trek from N1 so membership’s not an option for me – however they do offer a pay as you go scheme that’s flexible and affordable no matter where you come from.
If you’re in south London, why not swing by for a free trial?
Stars Gym is at the Albion Riverside Building, 8 Hester Rd, SW11. Visit www.starsgym.co.uk/en for more info
