Athlete-Lab london

[Andy Davidson]

Seen this on a couple of people's Strava, anyone here been?  What's it like? 

Want to go for a ride with a mate from overseas on Friday and was thinking this would be a good idea..  

But was staggered to see it was £30 each for a 45 min session...  is it genuinely amazing?

[david emery]

Keith Whitwell used to use it. If you're based or work in the city and want access to a gym environment with decent equipment, Virtual training etc give it a whirl. If it's sunny, I'd not bother personally

[Chi Cheung]

I am a regular and see a few Dulwich there, but its pretty brutal doing 3 interval sessions on consecutive work weekdays The majority of sessions are 1 hr and are based around % FTP (typically 2 x 20 min under/overs, 5x 4 min capacity intervals, and low cadence work)

The single session cost is really to encourage you to signup for the membership, which works out at £129/month.

I would recommend it if you are time poor (ie riding there and getting it done before work) and your office is near Cannon St/Monument/Lpool St. I find it more motivating than a turbo in the front room (committing to a 7am class (and a £ fine for no shows ) but will use both this and a smart trainer at the weekends this winter.

They might be opening another in Canary Wharf in the future.

[jonathangales]

I used it last winter for power based training. Like Chi says it's good motivation for structured interval training, maybe underwhelming for a one off.

If you want to take your friend to a cycle gym then maybe it would be good. If the sun is shining I'd defo head outdoors or to Velopark if time is an issue.

[Deleted]

I've been a member since January this year. Its, as the others say, great if you are time restricted with work and also want to get the max training impact out of your available time.

I was skeptical until I tried it and I have to say I'm really pleased with the results.

[Deleted]

I have used it a number of times & my first session was free (there was an offer at the time). Worth giving them a call to see if they will offer you & your mate a free taster. After all, it's a competitive market out there.

[Andy Davidson]

Thanks for the great feedback all. All booked in for tomorrow. I'd much prefer to have a blast outside but he's coming from overseas and sorting a bike is a faff. I work pretty nearby so be good to test it out in advance of winter. Cheers!

[Deleted]

Andy, I've used it a few times and thought it was great but pricey, especially if you are investing in your own turbo and set-up at home like I've done. However, Cyclebeat around the corner I've found to be a nice cheaper alternative (more of a spin class, £16 per session and have £20 for 10 day intro offer) but if you pick the right bike you might even get a very nice view!

[Ray Cox]

there is something about their sessions which makes you keep going even when it really hurts. It may be because you are in a group and can see each others data, and those pesky cadence and power bars which go blue when you fall off the pace. In an hour you can pack in a very intense session.

[Andy Davidson]

So I went, my mate was late and missed the session. Idiot. But I had a great time! I've done a fair amount of sufferfest/ trainer road/zwift on a smart trainer at home and this felt very familiar with the added benefit as Ray says of being able to see everyone's data. I definitely gave it more than I would've done if I was only watching my own screen. I'll definitely consider a membership as the nights and weather closes in. Thanks for feedback all!