Are you looking to turn up your training? A brand new gym is landing in Leicester city centre, as BFT opens its first UK site on Granby Street this weekend.
BFT Leicester will be opening its doors on Saturday 24 September, with a large number of members already signed up to experience this new training facility, which specialises in high intensity 50 minute classes.
We caught up with the management team to find out more.
How would you describe BFT for anyone unfamiliar with the brand?
BFT’s group fitness offering is based on a unique methodology which combines cardio with resistance programmes. They are intensified over periods of six to eight weeks to train different energy systems every session and give members the opportunity to develop their skills similar to those of elite athletes.
We have incorporated scientifically proven training techniques aimed at reducing fat and creating lean muscle into a variety of progressive 50-minute functional strength, cardio, and conditioning-based classes. With 13 different workout programmes at all fitness levels, our members are overseen by accredited coaches, who will be by their side to motivate, educate and push them to achieve their goals. Our aim is to is to give every member a personal experience relevant to their own body, level of fitness, limitations and flexibility, in a community that is supportive and fun.
How is it different to regular gyms? Is it more effective?
BFT’s point of difference is that each programme was designed by founder, Cameron Falloon, whose reputation in the fitness industry includes accolades such as coaching high-profile AFL and soccer teams and as the personal trainer to the late Princess of Wales, Diana. Its uniqueness comes from focussing on using all the body’s energy systems with the “progressive training model,” in conjunction with a prescribed heart rate that doesn’t involve going flat out for as long as possible. BFT is more than just a workout, we offer our members a special community environment that builds lasting friendships and networks while having fun.
Another key differentiator for BFT comes from our investment in people. There are three pillars to our business: members, franchisees and franchisor. It’s about making it a great experience for everyone. If we fail to look after our franchisees, the members don’t get the experience they deserve so it’s important to us that we invest in the people. Looking after our franchisees means they’re happy and in turn, the customers are well looked after.
What type of gym goer is it best suited to?
Our programming is suited to all fitness levels. Whether you are a first timer or a seasoned athlete we have something for you! With our focus on progressive overload we will ensure that everyone who comes gets fitter, leaner and stronger.
What was your first experience of BFT?
We discovered the boutique fitness model in North America and tried my first BFT class in Melbourne Australia. We were blown away by the structure of the class, the community vibes, and how the technology is integrated into the training.
You offer a range of totally different classes, can you give us some examples?
The aim of every week’s programming is to stress every energy system, train every muscle fiber type, and work through different planes of movement. Designed by an elite strength and conditioning coach, it’s a science-backed program that elite athletes use, made accessible to the general population.
HYPER
High volume, Hypertrophy style training with form and function always present. Expect unilateral loaded movements, lateral movements and a slight twist on most of the conventional strength exercises we do. A session where almost every exercise will challenge your prime movers, your stabilisers and your core. Hyper will alternate between upper and lower body programs for the ultimate, well rounded resistance program to develop that unbelievably symmetrical, lean physique.
XTX
A sweat fest where you will work through a full-body workout mixing traditional Cardio with Metabolic complexes and resistance exercises. Short Duration Effort, Long Duration efforts, and Metabolic Complexes keep you and your body guessing and we will have your metabolism running on all 8 cylinders. Targeting the Aerobic System to burn loads of body fat throughout 50mins of High-Intensity Fun.
A stand out feature is the fitness monitors that are worn during classes, what do these do?
Drawing on science and technology, we have developed a completely bespoke heart rate monitor system – BFT3 – which is designed to maximise the BFT experience and members results. Not only is it a world first in group training, but the technology is aligned with each of our BFT programs and helps members to track their progress by giving them the ability to compare their performance to past sessions, and ensure they are getting maximal results from each program.
We have specifically built a state-of-the-art heart rate system that rewards you for all programmes, giving each participant the ability to compare their performance to past sessions, and ensure they are getting maximal results from each program.
How can people find out more and sign up?
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @bft_leicester, or come in and see us in the studio at 127-133 Granby Street, Leicester.
BFT Leicester opens on Saturday 24 September.