Say hello to the newest yoga studio in town, Sweat Yoga at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth. It’s inside Lockkeepers Cottage on the edge of the canal. You’re bound to recognise this little building outside Cafe Rouge and opposite the Old Customs House. It’s been home to many an occupant over the years, including a waterside estate agent. 

It’s open now, hosting preview classes this week and next. Going forward you’ll be able to choose from more than 20 regular classes every week with 5 different teachers. Expect Power Flow, Yin, Hatha, Sculpt and Embodied Flow styles of yoga with a backdrop of powerful playlists and contemporary mindfulness techniques.

They’ve created a peaceful place for practice on the water’s edge – it really is extraordinary how zen you feel once inside, despite the bustle of Gunwharf Quays. There’s a welcoming vibe and Amber’s Embodied Flow class was just the tonic I needed. I came away feeling both relaxed and energised after a busy week at work, ready to enter the weekend with vigour. 

The space is being transformed into a full wellness destination in the coming weeks. You’ll be able to enjoy the outer deck, member’s lounge and high-end spa treatments too. It’ll offer a great alternative to a boozy night out too; take an evening class with a view of the illuminated Spinnaker Tower and then relax on the outside deck to soak up the atmosphere. 

Sweat Fitness started life at a warehouse in Haslemere Road, Southsea. After leaving that site in 2020 there was a short hiatus and Sweat came back even stronger with a new home in Middle Street. Their ethos is that they are a community, not a clique and it really feels different to a commercial gym. With a new team, new studio and new surroundings they are clearly on to a winning formula as the expansion into Gunwharf Quays suggests. 

Founder Luke Newton, who created Sweat, gives a shout out to his Studio Manager (and yoga practitioner) Emily for the new space: “It seems unfathomable now that adding yoga to our offer was ever a consideration! She’s brought the highest quality instruction to a warm and welcoming environment with killer soundtracks that add to the immersive vibe.” Encouraging those that have never tried it, he says “give yoga with Emily and our team at Sweat a go – it is a game-changer.”

And don’t be fooled into thinking you have to sign a lengthy contract or pay through the nose for joining fees. Luke explains: “You can be part of the Sweat community and be with us three or four times a week. Equally you’ll receive a warm welcome and the same experience even if you come to class once in a blue moon.  The magic is in a blended approach, a cross discipline training and Yoga practice with incredible teachers and trainers.”

They offer class trial bundles, individual class passes, gym memberships and personal training packages.  And credits will give you access to yoga and classes at both studios, Gunwharf and Middle Street. 

Want to learn more? Don’t miss the family-friendly Sweat Fitness Festival at Gunwharf Quays on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 April 2023. It’s free to attend and you can expect floating mindfulness, live DJs, mindset workshops, street dance, Tai Chi, yoga, and zumba. Some events are ticketed, so head over to the website to secure your favourite sessions in advance.

Website: sweat.fitness
Facebook: facebook.com/SweatSouthsea
Instagram: instagram.com/sweat_yoga_gwq