Where a night out meets a workout in Hong Kong
Fitness centres are combining serious workouts with a fun, Saturday-night vibe. We put some of the best to the test
Tucked in what they call "a hidden cave" on Queen's Road Central, XYZ provides a fantastic atmosphere for spinning, aka indoor cycling. The gym room, dimly lit by blue neon lights that flicker along to the music, evokes feelings of a disco, with the only exception being the presence of exercise bikes.
XYZ's sessions are an enjoyable challenge for the body and the senses. The music starts with a fast beat and a heavy bass line, an instructor leads you on a ride. The beat changes from time to time - sometimes slow and steady, sometimes fast enough to make your heart pound. Throw in a series of crunches and push-ups, all timed to the music, and by the end you'll be drenched in sweat.
Classes are divided into two levels - "Grow Young" for beginners, and "Born To Move" for a more intense cardio workout. Both are 50-minute sessions.
the dark room, neon lights, and loud pumping music give the exercise experience a feel-good, disco-like atmosphere. We left the class with tired thighs, but feeling energised. The best thing about the class? The lights are dim enough that nobody can see your face as you try to keep up.
