Third Space Archives

October 2, 2024October 5, 2024

Eden Dock project at Canary Wharf welcomes its first visitors

We sit down with Canary Wharf Group’s Sophie Goddard and the Eden Project’s Sir Tim Smit to talk ecology, life and nature at the heart of the estate

Image shows Eden Dock at Canary Wharf — Eden Dock officially opened to the public on October 2, 2024

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Eden Dock, which officially opened on October 2, 2024, is a project with multiple layers, both literal and philosophical.

Wharfers will doubtless soon festoon its golden-lit benches.

It will become a meeting place for passengers pouring out of the Jubilee line station, a spot for a coffee, lunch or simply to read a book during a break.

Visitors to the estate both during the day and at night will be drawn in by its rich foliage and subtly illuminated boardwalks.

At face value, it is a physical extension of the Canary Wharf estate – a new amenity.

Many will use it as such, probably not thinking too much more about it.

That’s absolutely fine – it’s one of the project’s aims.

But to view it as just a new park a would be to miss much of the detailed thinking and ambition behind its creation and, crucially, the statement of intent it represents.

Sure, it’s a pretty place to sit, a decent backdrop for a few selfies.

But it’s about much more than floating planters and smart wooden benches.

Canary Wharf Group has worked in partnership with ecological heavyweight the Eden Project in Cornwall to create “an urban oasis” with the stated aim of boosting flora and fauna on the estate.

It’s also intended to foster greater connection between us humans and the rest of the animals and organisms we share it with.

Image shows Canary Wharf Group's Sophie Goddard with two of the figures from Nature Rising at Eden Dock — Canary Wharf Group’s Sophie Goddard with two of the figures from Nature Rising

a different measure of success

“Typically, real estate companies take projects forward and work out the leasing income as a measure of success,” said Sophie Goddard, director of environment, social and governance at Canary Wharf Group.

“But that isn’t the case with Eden Dock, which is like no other project in Canary Wharf.

“Success will be judged on whether people are connecting with the space.

“We’re hitting a biodiversity net gain of 55%, which is phenomenal and we’re improving air quality but we want people to come here and use this space.”

Eden Dock is now officially open to the public.

Comprising a series of gardens and waterside spaces, the waters of Middle Dock have further been transformed by the presence of 20 living figures made from flowering shrub ligustrum – a lush art installation entitled Nature Rising that will become part of the estate’s permanent public sculpture collection and help to draw attention to the new walkways, seating areas and bridges.

Three years in the making, its launch on the estate is being supported by a programme of events including night kayaking (from Oct 2, see Page 6) dockside Yoga with Third Space (9am on October 10), the arrival of Square Mile Farm’s hydroponic agriculture at Jubilee Place (open until November 1) and a Glow In The Dark Flower Shop from Bompas And Parr, which is set to open on World Mental Health Day (October 10, also in Jubilee Place).

Image shows Eden Dock from above with seating areas and waterside boardwalks — The project has seen a series of boardwalks, seating areas and floating gardens installed at Middle Dock

Eden Dock: coming to life

However, for the Eden Project’s co-founder, Sir Tim Smit, Eden Dock is part of a wider message about how we view all of life in the context of the places we inhabit.

“One way of looking at what’s happening in the dock is to see it as a body coming to life,” he said.

“We want to create a sense that the more bugs there are, the healthier the area is likely to be

“I think we’ve got to look at Canary Wharf as an incredibly powerful, moral story of people wanting to create a place, where they’ve established a habitat to live and now want to start sharing that with other things to make us all healthier.

“What is happening in cities, which is very interesting, is that there are so many different niches where creatures can develop.

“For example, in Canary Wharf, you will find these under each window ledge, beneath every rock or stone and every different material that’s been used.

“There is already greater biodiversity in the suburbs and the centre of our cities than there is in the average field in Britain, which has been nuked with pesticides and nitrates.

“One of the really exciting things I would wish to champion with the team at Canary Wharf would be a grown-up look at who is sharing this place with us and how we can encourage the maximum amount of life to thrive here.

“The estate is a great location in which to ground the lightning of innovation around enhancing biodiversity.

“It is also our belief that the varied surfaces, textures and environments found at Eden Dock will encourage a greater diversity of life than much of the open farmland in this country.

“Moreover, the attention to life and beauty, plus the softer edges that characterise the natural worlds, will directly influence the happiness and sense of belonging of all who work, live and visit the estate.”

Image shows Eden Dock at night — Eden Dock has been created in partnership between the Eden Project and Canary Wharf Group

an injection of wellbeing

That focus on wellbeing and mental health has provided vital impetus as Canary Wharf continues to change and grow.

“As we’re evolving the estate, we need to look to what we believe will have value in the future, said Sophie.

“This is the first of many projects and it is ultimately about creating paths at multiple levels, whether that’s on rooftops or at the ground level, with all these interconnecting spaces to allow green space to flow through Canary Wharf.

“We had 67million people visit the estate last year and we have 3,500 living here, but we need to constantly be asking: ‘Do they feel they belong? Are we having a positive influence on their wellbeing?’.

“Projects like this are an example of how we’re trying to not just attract a greater number of people here, but also to have a beneficial effect on our residents, workers, visitors and neighbours.”

Image shows a couple looking at a series of living, mossy figures at Eden Dock — The living figures that adorn Eden Dock are part of an art installation called Nature Rising

beautifully realised

Tim added: “If the brief is to create a sense of life and livelihood, the colour, vibrancy and shape of everything that’s required needs to suggest life to the people who live and work here. Eden Dock is very much a valid first step towards doing that.

“It’s beautiful. You can see from the way the planting has been done that, very soon, it’s going to have soft lines everywhere – people are going to want to have picnics there – and that’s something you can build on.

“Nature is pretty cool at doing the biodiversity thing, it’s been doing it a long time.

“It’s important to realise we are all part of nature – it’s not a third party that we interact with.

“When I talk to children, I talk about opening up their guts, which always gets their interest.

“I ask them whether they are aware that there are around 3trillion things living inside them and that our bodies are the most brilliant hosts.

“It’s really important to remember we are a part of nature, not apart from it.

“And nature is so resilient.

“As we go, we need to proceed, not by planting trees along walkways, but doing a little bit here, a little bit there and then watching what happens.

“We really need to think about the environment we live in and the spaces where we gather.”

The suggestion is that spending time surrounded by living things is not just a desirable way to spend some time, but perhaps a more primal need that is as vital to our mental health as the oxygen we rely on plants and trees to create for us.

As Tim puts it, Canary Wharf going “punk rogue” on ecology at the heart of the estate generates excitement for the future and exhilaration in the present.

You can feel it now, for free at Eden Dock.

The installation is free to visit at Canary Wharf

key details: Eden Dock

Eden Dock can be found right outside the main exit of Canary Wharf’s Jubilee line station.

The area is completely free to visit.

Full details of the project and the activities in celebration of its launch can be found online.

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Third Space expands group exercise offering in Canary Wharf

Senior group exercise manager Vicki Antoniou on why taking a class is a great way to train

Third Space Canary Wharf group exercise manager Vicki Antoniou, a woman sat in a hot yoga studio smiling at the camera — Third Space Canary Wharf group exercise manager Vicki Antoniou – image James Perrin

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“Don’t fear the unknown”.

That’s the message from Vicki Antoniou, senior group exercise manager for Third Space’s two Canary Wharf clubs.

“If people are walking past The Yard – our crossfit inspired training space at the Canada Square club – and there’s a class on it can look like everyone knows what they’re doing,” she said.

“Or they hear a spin session getting underway, it can sound really overwhelming.

“But it’s vital people understand that our classes operate for all levels of fitness – everyone taking part went for the first time at some point.”

We’re sat in Third Space Wood Wharf for our interview.

While the brand’s second site on the estate is in a separate location to the Canada Square club, it essentially acts as a massive extension to the existing facilities as local membership includes access to both.

That means there’s a second pool to swim in and an extra gym floor to train on.

But it also adds something wholly fresh in terms of group exercise – Hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates studios.

This, alongside installing equipment for the latter at the original Canary Wharf site, has allowed the club to extend its already extensive timetable of classes, with more than 300 available every week.

Organising and managing that operation across two sites is no small task, but it’s one Vicki clearly relishes.

The Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf clubs offer more than 300 classes each week – image shows members engaged in a Formula 3 class at Canary Wharf using weights and rowing machines — The Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf clubs offer more than 300 classes each week

the benefits of group exercise

“We get more than 30,000 attendances at classes each month,” she said.

“Around half of the people coming to Wood Wharf are going to a group class, with Canary Wharf a little under that.

“I get really excited about the benefits of working out with other people. We know that once members try a class, they keep coming back.

“The hard part is just getting into the studio. Once you’re there, we’ll look after you.

“If you’re a bit hesitant, get there 15 minutes early and tell the instructor and they will make sure you’re comfortable.

“Everyone’s on their own journey.

“I’m big on inclusivity, so our instructors are trained to make sure everyone who comes into a class has the best possible experience and does what suits their mood for that day.

“We’re also happy to give members a tour of the studios when not in use if they’re feeling unsure.

“We can also advise what classes are best to start with, such as Fundamental Reformer for Pilates or Yin Yoga.”

Vicki’s own journey into the fitness industry began with group exercise, after friends invited her to be part of a film so they could gain Les Mills Bodypump certification.

Having “never picked up a weight in her life” before – a legacy of hating exercise at school – she was hooked and began going to classes.

Later she trained as an instructor and began teaching classes herself. At that time, fitness was more of a side hustle while Vicki worked in banking at Barclays on the Wharf and then in the City.

The arrival of her son saw her spending more time teaching fitness classes, which fitted around his school commitments, before heading back into the corporate world – this time in telecoms.

With her son grown, she “dipped her toe into nutrition”, setting up a company to offer workshops to businesses and organisations.

Third Space Wood Wharf boasts a large Hot Yoga studio

teaching at Third Space

“Around 2017, a friend of mine had started teaching at Third Space and I went to do a class with him,” said Vicki.

“It was fantastic and I thought I’d really like to teach there.

“I auditioned and began working as an instructor in 2018, first with one, then two and three classes a week. Eventually it was 10.

“At that point, I knew I wanted to manage, mentor and lead other instructors and so I applied for the group exercise manager at the Tower Bridge club and got the job.

“At first, despite my experience, I was petrified, but the support network was amazing.

“If you’ve done the job yourself, it puts you in a good position to manage others and I try to lead as I like to be led.

“Transparency and a lot of communication are essential.

“I’m a bit maternal and nurturing and really want to bring people into the fold.

“If you feel confident and that you belong, you’re going to lead classes as your authentic self.

“It’s vital that we have brand standards and that those are maintained across all our classes so members will always get that high quality experience.

“But I also want the instructors in my team to be themselves, not to put on a persona.

“They should feel free to express their personality and bring something of themselves to the sessions.

“We have thousands of members at Canary Wharf – the demographic is vast – and people really respond to instructors who deliver classes like that.”

Wood Wharf also has a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio

what Third Space Wood Wharf brings

Wood Wharf’s additions to the timetable have proved immensely popular, with Reformer Pilates capturing members’ imaginations to the point where extra equipment has been brought in at the original site too, in order to keep up with demand.

“I think, with Reformer classes, it’s the accessibility of it,” said Vicki.

“The way the equipment and the classes have been designed means everybody can do it. We have Fundamental, Traditional and Dynamic classes, so it doesn’t matter what level of fitness you’re at.

“It’s about coming to try something different and learning a new way to move your body with equipment that doesn’t put pressure on your joints.

“It’s perfect for people who don’t want to jump around in the gym.

“But it complements other exercises too.

“If you incorporate it weekly into your training you’ll really see the benefits in strength and flexibility.

“People often need to be a bit brave to try it, but we’ll always look after them and teach them how to use the equipment and give lots of options for those at different levels.

“Hot Yoga has been very well attended at our other clubs, so we wanted to bring a studio here too.

“Practising in a warm room gives you the ability to move your body in a more fluid and challenging way both from a physical and a mental perspective.

“It can feel as though the heat is lubricating your joints and giving you that extra mobility.”

Members take part in a Lift class at Third Space Canary Wharf - men and women lifting kettlebells while doing lunges — Members take part in a Lift class at Third Space Canary Wharf

key details Third Space

The Wharf membership covers Third Space’s Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf clubs and costs £230 per month.

This grants access to facilities across both sites and includes unlimited group exercise classes including Hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates.

Third Space also offers group membership, starting at £279 per month, which allows access to facilities at Third Space’s growing collection of clubs including Soho, Marylebone, Wimbledon, Clapham Junction and Tower Bridge. It currently excludes Mayfair.

Find out more about membership here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

May 30, 2024May 31, 2024

Third Space Wood Wharf boosts east London club’s fitness offering

Studios for Reformer Pilates and Hot Yoga plus a new 20m swimming pool add to Canary Wharf’s already unbeatable health and fitness facilities

Image shows a bright turquoise swimming pool surrounded by light brown limestone times at Third Space Wood Wharf — Third Space Wood Wharf boasts a new 20m swimming pool and spa area

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Third Space Canary Wharf is already at the top of the fitness tree when it comes to facilities.

On its own, the Canada Square club offers a vast array of workout spaces, studios, machines and equipment.

There’s a pool, a climbing wall, a crossfit-inspired strength and conditioning space and a combat area with a boxing ring.

Nothing else on the estate comes close. And the facilities are only half the story.

The studios and gym floor are home to hundreds of classes each week, all included in the monthly fee.

This means members can indulge in everything from spinning to sound baths, HIIT sessions or weightlifting.

Image shows Colin Waggett, CEO of Third Space wearing a white shirt with floral detail round the collar — Third Space CEO Colin Waggett

unveiling Third Space Wood Wharf

But with the opening of Third Space Wood Wharf club, that offering and capacity has received a massive boost – essentially beating an already unbeatable proposition because access is included with membership of the Canary Wharf club as standard.

Expansive new studios mean Hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates classes are now available at for the first time on the estate.

There’s also a fully equipped training space and a swimming pool at the 15 Water Street location, which is spread over two floors above Tribe hotel and Dishoom.

“When I joined, we had four clubs and three brands – it was abundantly clear that the right one to grow was Third Space, which brought together serious business and lifestyle propositions,” said Colin Waggett, Third Space CEO.

“It had a brilliant name too, so the initial challenge was to bring those four locations, which included the former Reebok Sports Club in Canary Wharf, under the Third Space name.

“Having achieved that by 2017, we started to look at new sites including one near Fenchurch Street and then Islington.

“We were gradually building and we started looking at Wood Wharf in 2018.

“It’s been a long time coming, but that’s reflected in the quality of what we’ve created here.

“We decided that for Canary Wharf and Wood Wharf we would only have one membership so people don’t have to make a choice between the two sites.

“If you buy into one club, you get access to both.

“By doing that, it’s made it easier to get the proposition right at Wood Wharf.”

Image shows the new club's main gym area including a bright red track for training on — The new club features a large, well-lit multi-functional training area

the Third Space Wood Wharf proposition

“It provides something different to the main Canary Wharf site – more of a country club feel with the pool and spa,” said Colin

“We’ve also got a massive, multifunctional training space.

“Then, over the last five years Reformer Pilates and Hot Yoga have become ever more popular and that’s why we’ve built those studios.

“The former, especially, is having a big moment and, had we not built the Wood Wharf club, we’d have put facilities into our Canada Square site.

“We have to watch the big trends and change our space allocation in both clubs over time to reflect them.

“Right now that means less cardio activity and fewer cross trainers but more racks for weightlifting and greater space for our mind and body offering with Yoga, Pilates and sound baths.”

Image shows Third Space Wood Wharf's Hot Yoga studio with black rubber yoga mats on a wooden floor — Third Space Wood Wharf has a dedicated Hot Yoga studio

growing from experience

Colin knows a thing or two about keeping abreast of developments in the industry.

Having joined Fitness First in 2004 as chief financial officer, he was running the company a year later and presided over its growth from 250 locations in 10 countries to 500 in 25, expanding into the Middle East, south-east Asia and Australia.

Striking out on his own, he founded studio fitness concept Psycle in 2012, which included a branch in Canary Wharf’s Crossrail Place albeit before any trains were running.

While on that journey, he met the owners of Reebok Sports Club, who were acquiring Third Space and ended up joining the company as CEO in 2015.

While the pandemic meant pausing plans for expansion, the brand is now very much back on track with sites in Battersea, Wimbledon and Clapham

“Next year we’ll open three or maybe four clubs – which could make seven in two years – and that’s a lot,” said Colin.

“These are all sites we signed four years ago so we’ve known they were coming and we’ve been preparing for them.

“Our business is property and people. The property side happens very slowly, the design, construction and the rest of it.

“The people side can happen quite quickly – we usually need a team of 50 or 60 people to open a club.

“About half to two thirds of them are already working in one of our clubs.

“It’s all about getting the skills and culture right, which is what we spend time preparing for.”

“It’s always a challenge but that is what we’re here for.

Image shows Reformer Pilates machines in a room with a wooden floor. The machines are cream with black plastic details — The Reformer Pilates studio features equipment for group sessions

keeping that quality

“Preserving the quality we have at our existing clubs is a complete obsession with new openings,” said Colin.

“Our mantra is we get better as we get bigger – so we work really hard to ensure that’s the case.

“The golden rule when opening a new club is always to promote internally. Our heads of department will be two-thirds internal as well.

“The things we’ve been investing in, knowing these openings have been in the pipeline, are recruitment, training and education.

“We have a significant team of master trainers who are out there recruiting instructors and training them up to the standard we want them to be at.

“We’re in the fortunate position of being able to recruit the best.

“Our Canary Wharf and Islington clubs both have what we call Academy Teams, which are gateway jobs for people looking to become personal trainers.

“Our smaller clubs also help because that network provides career pathways which help us fulfil that mantra of being better.”

Image shows a Third Space trainer helping a man with is boxing technique — Third Space Canary Wharf already has a wealth of facilities including a fully equipped combat area

evolving the Third Space Canary Wharf site

With the Wood Wharf launch well underway, the refurbishment of the Canary Wharf club is itself an ongoing mission.

The space formerly used for The Pearson Room is set to be repurposed as a mind and body space to cater for the upswing in demand for Yoga and sound baths, while the existing studio will likely be filled with more Reformer Pilates machines to accommodate larger classes.

It’s all part of a carefully curated mix that’s designed to give frequent users the best deal possible.

“We’re great value if you come regularly and terrible value if you don’t,” said Colin.

“We don’t have membership contracts. If people want to leave, for whatever reason – life’s got in the way, they’re too busy – then they should leave feeling good about us.

“Our aim is to never let people down, but to recognise that some will cease training.

“One in five of our new members is actually someone returning to us.

“For all the things available to you, our price per day or per visit is extremely good value.

“It’s about an investment in something, a good use of time.

“We’re aimed at people who are prioritising their fitness and want good experiences – members who are trying to get the most out of life in busy London.

“We meet their demands as these change and evolve.

“With a master trainer in charge of each area of fitness, they’re always looking at our programme to see what’s performing, how it can be improved or refreshed – a bit like changing a menu at a restaurant.

“You want to keep your favourites, but you want new attractions too.”

Image shows Third Space master trainer Clare Walters hosting a sound bath in a Yoga studio — Sound baths are increasingly popular across Third Space’s clubs

new thinking at Third Space

“One of the things we’re doing more of across our clubs is focusing on that whole spa experience with saunas, plunge pools and hydrotherapy,” said Colin.

“At one time it was thought they just felt nice but increasingly there’s a real purpose to spending that time, whether for the physical or mental benefits you get from them.

“Sound baths, for instance, are curiously absorbing and a really nice treat.

“If you’re training at a high intensity, adding in softer programming to a club gives our members greater value.

“The ambition is that one day every one of our clubs will close with a session.

“People can then train in the morning and come back at the end of the day for what’s essentially 45 minutes of meditation – that would be wonderful.

“Wood Wharf itself has quite a different vibe to our other clubs – it’s beautiful to look down on the water and the streets below from the third floor.

“Some people will prefer to train there or just come for specific classes while mainly using Canary Wharf. It could just be where the mood takes them on the day.

“The club generates more capacity for us and, now that it’s open, we’ll be doing more to sell the two offerings together.”

need to know

Club membership at Third Space Canary Wharf, including access to Third Space Wood Wharf currently costs £217 per month.

Group access for the brand’s clubs (excluding Mayfair and Islington) costs £245.

Find out more about the new club here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

January 25, 2024January 30, 2024

Canary Wharf: How Third Space Wood Wharf expands the brand’s offering

Club will add Reformer Pilates, hot Yoga and gym capacity for Canary Wharf members to explore

An artist’s impression of the pool at Third Space Wood Wharf

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Third Space Canary Wharf is vast.

Its facilities, spread over three floors above Waitrose in Canada Square, include an expansive Crossfit-themed training area, a combat zone with a full-size boxing ring, a climbing wall, a swimming pool, fitness studios, a dedicated mind and body space and that’s before you even get to the weights and cardio machines.

Billed as Europe’s largest luxury health club, it boasts an unrivalled selection of classes featuring everything from treadmills and Olympic weightlifting to bodyweight HIIT, kettlebells and callisthenics.

Pick pretty much any exercise trend and, if it promises serious benefits, the Third Space’s Canary Wharf facility will pretty much have it covered.

Like Barry’s? then Third Space has Sweat X. Prefer spinning? Choose Hardcore Cycle or Just Ride. Enjoy Crossfit? There’s Yard WOD and so on.

It’s not unusual to have more than 45 classes timetabled on a given weekday for members to choose from – all included in the monthly fee.

Soon, however, that won’t be all they’re getting.

The Wood Wharf branch is set to open later this year

Third Space is set to open a new branch on the estate, with access for Canary Wharf members at no extra cost.

Located at 15 Water Street above Dishoom and Tribe Canary Wharf, Third Space Wood Wharf will be spread over two floors.

The club is essentially an extension on a second site to the facilities already on offer in Canada Square. It will have its own fully-stocked gym floor and swimming pool, but also a series of new classes..

“We have a great offering already, but the idea is that if a member can think of a type of class they’d like to do, then it should be available across the two sites,” said Gillian Reeves, head of group exercise at Third Space.

“There are a couple of things Canary Wharf doesn’t offer that Wood Wharf will, completing our full suite of facilities.

“We’ll have dedicated studios for hot Yoga and Reformer Pilates.

“They will be great spaces and we can’t wait to welcome our members into them.”

The Wood Wharf branch is expected to open in early summer, with preparations well underway.

The Wood Wharf branch will include a hot Yoga studio

“It’s massive for Canary Wharf,” said Alex Barsby, the new facility’s dedicated general manager.

“With both sites taken into consideration, it’s such a fantastic offering.

“The idea is to deliver extra facilities to what we already have at the existing site without duplicating too much of what’s already there.

“There will be more capacity – there’s a fully equipped gym with Eleiko free weights, a sled track, professional lifting racks, Pulse pin-loading machines with digital screens and cardio machines.

“Upstairs, there will be beautiful changing rooms where members can relax, unwind and get ready before venturing out into the city.

“There’s a 20m pool with a hydro pool and unisex sauna and steam room facilities, which is something new for the club on the estate and will be ideal for couples.

“There will also be poolside loungers and an experience shower that people can use after coming out of the sauna or steam room.

“Being above ground, there’s lots of natural light with windows all round the club, which is really fantastic and gives it a lovely feel.”

While the extra capacity will be of obvious benefit – especially to Tribe hotel guests, who can use the facilities – the chief attractions are perhaps the two new studios and the possibilities they bring.

A Reformer Pilates studio will host a range of classes

While Third Space Canary Wharf offers a programme of mat based Pilates classes and Yin, Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga at ambient temperatures, Wood Wharf will expand significantly on these.

“We’ll continue with all those classes,” said Gillian.

“But these new spaces allow us to offer more.

“The hot Yoga studio will be heated to between 32ºC and 35ºC – a really lovely temperature.

“We know from our other clubs that some people really want to escape to a warm place where they can feel that they’re sweating a bit.

“It can feel a bit more challenging because you have the heat to contend with and that puts your body under greater stress.

“The fact it’s hot and that you have to move and breathe, means you need to work with your mind – to use all the tools that your practice has taught you to focus on the positions.

“To keep things straightforward we’ll be programming the same forms as in the ambient studios but there are variations because we don’t dictate to our teachers the approach they should take.

“Everyone who teaches at Third Space has years of experience and the classes differ based on the way that they have been trained in Yoga.”

Perhaps the most significant addition to Third Space’s offering, however, is its decision to include a Reformer Pilates studio at Wood Wharf.

Third Space Wood Wharf will be included with membership at Canary Wharf

“This equipment is commonly used in smaller groups or one-on-one, but we’ve found there’s growing demand for bigger classes with lots of Reformers,” said Gillian.

“The challenge was to keep the authenticity of Pilates when creating these larger classes.

“To do that, we needed an expert and we found that in James Shaw who has been teaching for more than 10 years.

“He has a wealth of knowledge and experience and he’s really passionate about Pilates – he’s devoted his life to it.

“He’s developed our signature classes and we’ll be running Fundamental Reformer Pilates, Traditional Reformer Pilates and Dynamic Reformer sessions.

“We’ve dropped the word ‘Pilates’ from the last one, because it’s really movement exercises on the equipment and looks quite different from the traditional system, but members love it.

“We’ll also be offering Tower Pilates classes, where participants will work with the structure at the end of the equipment.

“It’s a really nice addition, as it’s a different way of working with the resistance springs.”

Alex added: “Third Space is an investment in yourself – the return you get can be life-changing.

“We really pride ourselves on the fact everything we do is member-assessed.

“We love this feedback and use it to constantly improve what we do and to provide what our members want.”

Membership at Third Space Canary Wharf, which will include the new Wood Wharf club currently costs £212 per month.

Find out more about Third Space here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

November 16, 2023November 16, 2023

Canary Wharf: How a Jovena Face Stim treatment delivers a lift at Third Space Spa

The treatment uses radio frequencies and electrical stimulation to exercise facial muscles with the aim of creating a more youthful appearance

The treatment uses Jovena’s machine to stimulate facial muscles

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

There’s a new beauty treatment in town. Third Space Spa in Canary Wharf’s Canada Square recently added Jovena Face Stim to its extensive range of aesthetic and wellbeing services.

While the largest luxury health club in Europe has plenty of ways to train the body’s muscles, the spa’s new machine offers a way to work out facial muscles with the aim of tightening and toning the skin to give clients a healthier and younger appearance.

The treatment, which costs £250 per session, promises visible results after the first application, with a course of six recommended.

Third Space is currently offering customers £50 off their first treatment. Those booking five sessions will get a sixth for free.

what do you get for your money?

Each session lasts approximately one hour, which includes cleansing, radio frequency therapy and muscle stimulation.

tell us more

“It’s a two-part facial, although you can also have them done in isolation,” said Third Space Spa therapist, Samelia Connor.

“The Jovena Face Stim treatment begins with a radio frequency procedure, which tightens the skin and boosts collagen production.

then what happens?

“The second part is the facial stimulation,” said Samelia. “It causes contractions in the face, so it’s working the muscles to create a lifting effect for the skin.

“We can target the right muscles to achieve the effect. In combination, you get tightening and lifting, which works with your existing skin regime.”

what are the benefits?

“From what I’ve seen with my clients, it gives them a more youthful appearance and I feel like that’s something everyone is looking for,” said Samelia, who has been a therapist for more than seven years, relocating to the UK from the Caribbean following a hurricane.

“Even if, like me, you’re in your 20s, you still want to look fresh.”

how does it feel?

“It’s quite relaxing,” said Samelia. “When someone invests in their skin, I feel like they know the procedure will benefit them and when you see the instant results, you feel like you’re getting your money’s worth.

“For longer lasting results, I would recommend the full course of six. It’s for men and women.

“Before there was a stigma about men getting treatments but now it’s seen as self care.

“Whoever you are, if you’re doing a presentation or appearing at an event, you want to look your very best.”

THE DETAILS

Jovena Face Stim, Third Space Spa

The cost per treatment is normally £250 per session

Third Space Spa’s introductory offer is £50 off a first treatment

Therapists recommend a course of six treatments for longer-lasting results. The spa offers six for the price of five

The two-stage procedure takes around an hour to complete

Instantly visible results are promised after one session

Third Space Spa is accessible to members and non-members at Third Space in Canada Square. A first Jovena Face Stim costs £200.

Find out more about Jovena Face Stim at Third Space Spa here

Third Space Spa thearapist Samelia Connor

TRIED AND TESTED

By Jess Maddison

I am – in some ways – the ideal candidate to experience this treatment for a review.

My body has been blessed with many things, but prominent bone structure is not one of them.

I am therefore a good guinea pig to road test a treatment that claims to produce results of lifting, sculpting and tightening after only the first session.

Before my appointment at Third Space Spa for the Jovena Face Stim, I’ve also accidentally gone out every night for a week and my skin is definitely a bit dull and dehydrated.

The treatment is meant to promote a refreshed appearance, so I’m giving the technology a serious challenge.

To start things off, my face is cleansed. Then it all gets a bit unusual.

Conductive gel is applied and a little, warm device is moved over one half of my face. It’s like a small, friendly koala is massaging me with his tiny fingers.

This is the radio frequency treatment – the part that stimulates collagen production and, once I got used to the sensation, it was quite relaxing.

Then comes the next step and things get even more unusual.

This is the part where the therapist stimulates the muscles in your face like a mini gym work out.

It’s done with the same wand, but the koala has gone on his break.

The first jolt is definitely a shock – it’s like nothing I’ve ever felt before. Is it an electric pulse? Suction? It feels a little bit like an epilator.

It pulses all over one half of my face and this is where my therapist Samelia’s professionalism comes into play.

While the first few applications are a bit alarming her soft, hushed tones are there and she makes me laugh.

It’s not the most comfortable I have been in my life, but by the time we get round to doing the other half of my face I’ve gotten so used to things I’ve zoned out and am thinking about something else entirely.

The treatment begins with facial cleansing

The session ends with the removal of the conductive gel and a soothing application of moisturiser.

The results? In the mirror there stands before me someone who’s apparently had seven nights of blissful eight-hour sleep and green tea before bed.

The puffiness under my eyes is gone and it’s the same for my cheeks.

My skin is glowing, hydrated, smooth and tight. But that isn’t all.

The changes are subtle, but definitely there.

There is, without doubt, a small part of my chin that has been sucked up into my jaw.

The sides of my face are straighter and – what’s this? I can actually see an ever-so-small curve of a cheekbone.

Days later my skin feels just as smooth.

I’m amazed the results are still there when I wake up.

This is definitely not a typical facial but, with effects like these, bring on more koala massage and face pulsing.

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

September 7, 2023September 7, 2023

Canary Wharf: Why Third Space has introduced Sound Bath classes

How relaxation sessions fit with health club’s high energy programmes to offer members time out

Third Space master trainer Clare Walters conducts a Sound Bath class

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

How often do we get the opportunity to take an hour for ourselves?

The modern world is busy.

There’s information overload. We, as individuals, have the ability to be in touch with more people now, than at any time in human history.

There’s more content from media sources – social and traditional – all with ideas, advice, entertainment and distraction, screaming for attention than ever before.

We can be at work 24-hours a day, pretty much anywhere in the world. Phones can even be used in the shower.

It’s all an endless, demanding torrent of stuff. That is life in 2023.

It’s also, perhaps, why Third Space’s Sound Bath sessions are proving so popular.

With its Canary Wharf branch the largest luxury health club in Europe – arranged over three floors above Waitrose in Canada Square – it boasts a grand list of facilities.

There’s a climbing wall, an enormous functional training space called the yard, a boxing ring, a swimming pool and that’s before you even start digging into the extensive free weights, resistance machines and cardio options on offer.

Participants can lie on their backs or sit on chairs for the sessions

There’s also a densely populated timetable of classes with names like Sweat X, Hardcore Cycle and Speed Fiends, keenly focused on helping its members get a serious sweat on.

“We do that really, really well – those high energy sessions when you look at the breadth of that offering,” said Gillian Reeves, head of group exercise at Third Space.

“There’s a whole plethora of options – strength classes with weights, HIIT classes, cycling classes – which is brilliant for overall health.

“Then you go towards things like Yoga, which can also be high energy with practices like Vinyasa.

“Then at the rest end of the spectrum we have Yin Yoga, which is really popular here because it’s much slower and people know intuitively that they need to stretch.

“But we thought: ‘Why stop there?’.

“Let’s keep going and offer something beyond that.

“People, especially in Canary Wharf, work really hard and have very active lives. There’s lots going on and they really need that balance with rest and recovery.

“We decided to put on some trial Sound Bath classes and the waiting lists were really big – the demand was there, people wanted to do it and it confirmed what we were thinking.”

The Canary Wharf club is currently offering hour-long Sound Baths twice a week on Monday evenings and Saturday afternoons – but what actually happens in a class?

“It’s our way of offering peace and meditation to balance out all the activity – work, stress and exercise – a time once a month or a fortnight to find some stillness,” said Gillian.

“We think it might be seen as the least intimidating form of meditation – there’s something intuitive about sound and music.

“People really relate to that and so they’re prepared to give it a go – they aren’t faced with complete silence for a long period of time.

A series of instruments are used to produce the sounds

“You can turn up wearing whatever you want, because essentially you’re just lying down or, if preferred, sitting on a chair.

“We want you to be really comfortable on the mat so there are bolsters and blankets.

“There’s an introduction from the teacher, which deals with safety – the practice is not recommended for people with mental health issues, those with metal plates around joints or women who are pregnant, unless a doctor has said it’s OK.

“Then there’s a general overview of the class so people know what to expect.

“At launch, all of our teachers will use a common structure with a variety of instruments, but this will evolve over time.

“The classes will start either with a gong or crystal bowls and there will usually be a crescendo towards the middle of the time.

“Then there can be a fade out with some chimes to finish.

“Sometimes a teacher will stay at the front the whole time, and sometimes they’ll walk around the class with small percussive instruments.

“At the end there will be silence and then some recorded music to signal the end of the session.

“What people will get from a class depends on them and their intention. For some it may be more spiritual and for others it’s relaxation.

“It might be a physical rest or allowing yourself to be still for mental health – if you just want a lie down, then that’s great.”

Third Space’s Yoga teachers have undergone extensive training with musician Tim Wheater and sound artist Cherub Sanson – the former a pioneer of sound healing in the west who has been engaged in it since 1982.

The club’s classes make use of crystal bowls from Cherub’s brand Cherebella.

The classes use crystal bowls from Cherebella

“Because of the vibrations of the different instruments that we use, it will shift people into more of a theta brainwave state – on the cusp of wakefulness but deeply relaxed,” said Gillian.

“It has a similar effect to practising meditation and has a lot of benefits for reducing stress and anxiety.

“Our bodies are really clever – if something needs repairing or healing, then they can do that. If we’re not running around and doing stuff, then they have the chance.

“Deep sleep, where the body produces delta brainwaves, is really good for us too – people who have participated in the classes have said they sleep better after a Sound Bath.

“The main thing is for people to come with as few expectations as possible – with an open mind, a sense of curiosity – and see what happens.

“As with everything we do at Third Space, our hope is that members feel better.

“With Sound Bath, they should feel good, more relaxed and calm.

“Like all holistic practices, attending a session won’t mean all the problems in your life are magically better, but it can certainly help.

“You might be having a bad time and find your perspective shifts, you could have a great thought or come in with a problem that you’ve solved by the time you leave.

“So far the feedback has been really positive.”

Find out more about Third Space Canary Wharf here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

August 23, 2023August 23, 2023

Canary Wharf: How Wharf Wellness will showcase offerings across the estate

Four-day wellbeing festival will feature taster sessions, offers and discounts in September 2023

Third Space will be hosting Yoga at Crossrail Place Roof Garden for Wharf Wellness

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

We’ve had the blockbuster nights of Festival14 with the likes of Craig Charles and Soul II Soul rocking Canada Square Park.

There have been the tense dramatic screenings of the Lionesses’ triumphs and noble defeat in the World Cup Final.

There’s about to be the spectacle of Dancing City.

But just when you thought things might be settling down, another festival packed with activities arrives on the horizon.

There’s an air of serene calm about this one, however – an antidote, perhaps, to some of the summer’s frenetic buzz.

Wharf Wellness is set to take over the Canary Wharf estate from September 27-30, 2023, with a four-day programme of taster sessions and experiences as well as discounts and offers.

While the full roster of events is still being finalised, Canary Wharf Group has shared some early details so everyone can begin to get organised.

Broadly speaking, Wharf Wellness can be divided relatively neatly in two.

The first is a programme of experiences run by local firms and organisations based on the estate, designed to showcase what they offer with taster workouts and workshops.

The second is a series of discounts and offers from lifestyle and hospitality businesses on the Wharf that will run throughout the festival’s four-day duration.

Canary Wharf Group retail marketing manager, Claire Slater, said: “It’s a celebration of health and wellbeing across the estate.

“Wharf Wellness brings together the best in fitness, healthy eating and healthcare to reflect the diversity of what’s on offer in Canary Wharf, giving workers, visitors and local residents the opportunity to experience it.

“We decided to create it because of the breadth of what’s here, which we really want to shout about.

Canary Wharf Group retail marketing manager Claire Slater

“Ultimately, we want to give people a bit of ‘me time’ while they’re on the Wharf and also to promote our green spaces and waterways – to let people know how much there is here to get involved with and how they can do that.”

The full programme of events is still being finalised with more announcements expected in the coming weeks, but some of the estate’s biggest names are already involved including Third Space, Barry’s and Sweat By BXR.

“We hope there will be an element of surprise for some people participating,” said Claire.

“For example, Third Space will be hosting a Yoga session at Crossrail Place Roof Garden with a mocktail afterwards at Pergola On The Wharf.

“Some people have yet to discover that space, so having the classes up there will really add to the delight we hope people taking part will feel.

“Personally, I think it’s just a really lovely place to be.”

The majority of activities on offer will be free to attend with bookings set to open mid September.

Access to all classes will be via the Canary Wharf app, which can be downloaded via this link for Android or Apple devices.

A series of discounts, offers and events will also be available exclusively via the app featuring the likes of Randox Health, Space NK, Farmer J, Atis, Pure, Le Chalet Cryo, Aesop and BlooBloom, details of which will be announced in due course.

Love Open Water will host a session suitable for beginners in Middle Dock

“With most sessions free, Wharf Wellness means you don’t need to have a gym membership to experience an amazing class from the brands taking part,” said Claire.

“There will also be open water swimming in Middle Dock with Love Open Water – a really inclusive session designed for beginners to explore in a safe space.

“We’re also very excited about Padium, the new padel tennis club, which is opening its doors at Bank Street at the end of the month.

“They will be offering a session to introduce people to the sport and the facility, which comes with a salad from Urban Greens too.”

Other attractions include plant-based summer roll making in a lunchtime session with a chef at recent Wood Wharf arrival Mallow and a makeup masterclass from Bobbi Brown.

“That’s part of our focus on self-care,” said Claire.

“It’s on the Friday evening, which is perfect for anyone who is set to go out afterwards.

“Then, alongside sessions from Barry’s and Union Square installation Mandala Lab on Saturday, we’re also working to provide something for families with a company called Wee Movers.

“They will be putting on a session of Yoga for kids and their parents at Crossrail Place Roof Garden.”

With more still in the pipeline, Wharf Life will continue to update readers as new announcements are made, including the date when bookings will go live.

Until then, stay tuned to Canary Wharf’s website and app for updates.

Barry’s at Crossrail Place will be offering sessions in its Red Room studio

CHOOSE YOUR PATH – Wharf Wellness 2023

While the final programme is set to be released in September, we can reveal some dates and times to whet the wellness appetite and get pencils scribbling in diaries…

>> WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Yoga + Mocktails

5.45pm, Crossrail Roof Garden

Europe’s largest luxury health club, Third Space, will host a Yoga session amid the lush vegetation of the roof garden followed by a refreshing mocktail at nearby Pergola On The Wharf.

Sound Journey

6pm, Mandala Lab, Union Square

Head over to Wood Wharf and discover the Rubin Museum’s interactive installation for a sonic adventure inspired by the principles of Buddhism. Mandala Lab will also be hosting sessions on Sept 29 and 30, both at 6pm.

>> THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Dip + Sip

7.45am, Love Open Water, Middle Dock

Beginners are welcome at this morning open water swimming session at the heart of Canary Wharf. Afterwards, participants are invited for a smoothie or juice at Caravan.

The Red Room

Time TBC, Barry’s, Crossrail Place

Try out a class in Barry’s iconic red room fitness studio, mixing cardio with resistance training to torch calories fast. Barry’s will also be hosting a session on Sept 30, time TBC.

Summer Roll Making

12.30pm, Mallow, Wood Wharf

Visit the plant-based restaurant for a 50-minute session with participants learning to make summer rolls for their lunch. A great way to discover what Mallow has to offer.

>> FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

Boxing Class

8am, Sweat By BXR, Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Start the day with a serious, boxing-inspired workout amongst the greenery from this bespoke studio, then refuel with breakfast from Fresh Fitness Food.

Intro To Padel

2pm, Padium, Bank Street

Learn to play padel tennis at newly opened club Padium with this hour and a half-long session covering rules, scoring, techniques and strategies. Participants will also get a salad from nearby Urban Greens.

Makeup Masterclass

5.30pm, Bobbi Brown, Location TBC

Zeroing in on self care, this session is aimed at those looking for tips and techniques to perfect their look.

>> SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

Kids + Parents Yoga

2.30pm, Wee Movers, Crossrail Place Roof Garden

This hour-long session is aimed at family wellness, with kids and their parents invited for a child-friendly exploration of movement and wellbeing.

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

August 9, 2023August 9, 2023

Isle Of Dogs: Why Suzan Altay wants women to self-check their breasts for lumps

Personal trainer and fitness instructor was diagnosed with breast cancer after finding a tumour

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“I cannot emphasise enough the importance of self-checking your breasts,” said Suzan Altay.

“I was lucky that I found the lump because, five months before, it hadn’t shown up on the mammogram or MRI.”

Suzan, who lives on the Isle Of Dogs and works as an elite personal trainer and Yoga and Pilates instructor at Third Space in Canary Wharf, was no stranger to having scans as part of a high risk group.

“I’d been going for check-ups twice a year since my early 20s because of fibrocystic breasts – cysts in the tissue,” she said.

“They call them lumpy breasts, so I’d go for the regular appointments and trust that process.

“It was just before I was due to go for a scan that I realised something was wrong.

“I was doing my stretching exercises one Sunday morning, when I suddenly discovered something that wasn’t there before.

“It was about the size of a pea and it wasn’t moving.

“Because I was on the priority list, I got an appointment immediately – I was referred for a biopsy, which confirmed that the lump was cancerous.

“Then they had to decide what kind of treatment I was going to have.

“The first biopsy suggested I should have a lumpectomy, where they just remove the tumour and the tissue around it.

“But a further MRI showed another mass, meaning I would need a mastectomy.

“I was given the option to have one or both breasts removed and for safety I decided to have both.

“It was supposed to be just the surgery because it was local, but during the surgery they check the lymph nodes, and found out that the cancer had spread to them too.

“Five months earlier, the scans hadn’t picked anything up and then all this.

“It was horrible, I was terrified.

“You put your trust in doctors, machines and so on – I’d not missed a single appointment in 20 years – and then all of a sudden you start questioning what was missed?

“Did I eat too many grapes? Did I not drink enough water?

“You want to make sense of it to protect yourself, but you have to accept that, with these kind of things, nobody really knows the cause.”

Because the cancer had spread to the lymph nodes, doctors recommended an aggressive approach to the disease.

“I think the hardest part of the whole treatment was the chemotherapy and losing my hair was part of that,” she said.

“It took them a month to decide what kind of drugs would be necessary.

“During the surgery I’d had breast reconstruction and I was lucky to preserve my nipples – so I’d had a month getting used to my new body when I started losing my hair from the cocktail of medication I was given.

“I had 16 sessions and then radiotherapy, which took about 11 months in total.

“It happened just after the pandemic, so while lots of people were going back to work, I didn’t for about a year.

“When you’re on chemo, the drugs make you feel sick but you also take medication to stop you throwing up – that was just a horrible feeling and you’re tired all the time.

“I was really fortunate with the radiotherapy I didn’t have a rash or anything, and I kept asking the nurses if it was really working, because I had no effects at all.

“I was even able to go back to teaching so I would go for treatment in the morning and then take classes afterwards.

“Then, on February 1 last year I was given the all clear – I had a bottle in the fridge all ready to celebrate and then I got Covid.

“It’s been more than a year now, everything seems fine and I’m good.

“I’m on daily medication and every three months I have to go for injections but my check-ups are now scaled back.

“I do get tired and sometimes a low mood, but physically and mentally I’m building up my strength again.

“The reason I wanted to tell my story was to raise awareness so women keep checking themselves and keep pushing if they find something they think isn’t right.

“Around one in three women in the UK will get cancer and finding it early is really important.

“I was lucky – when I found my lump the cancer had already spread and I don’t know what would have happened if I hadn’t found it then.

“I knew of a lady at one of the gyms I worked at who’d had cancer and was fine.

“Then she suddenly disappeared and I later discovered she had passed away – she was younger than me.

“Each day I think of her because my story could so easily have been like hers.

“Even though the treatment can take a lot out of you mentally, as well as physically, breast cancer has a high survival rate because it is relatively easy to treat.

“In my life I’ve jumped from planes and dived with sharks – I was fearless, but now I realise I can be afraid because life can be taken away just like that.”

Suzan is a personal trainer and Yoga and Pilates instructor at Third Space in Canary Wharf

Cancer can come for anyone.

Those who have attended one of Suzan’s classes at Third Space (myself included) will have been struck by her apparently boundless levels of energy and infectious passion for both Yoga and Pilates.

Having come to the UK in her early 20s from Cyprus, she initially studied sound engineering, before going on to work in the field.

Having long practised Yoga, she chose to train as a teacher after breaking up with a boyfriend and deciding to do something for herself – making the switch to the fitness industry and later going on to qualify as a Pilates instructor and a personal trainer.

“It’s an important time in your life when you find yourself,” she said.

“I loved sound engineering when I was doing it, but when I’m on the mat I feel I have more confidence – I know what I’m doing and it gives me pleasure.

“Once I started learning more about Yoga it gave me something – I didn’t realise what that was until I started teaching, but it was what I’d been missing in my previous career.

“It can be demanding, but I never feel tired in the classroom.

“The benefits of practising both Yoga and Pilates are really good and have helped me recover.

“The body is such an amazing machine, but it’s so important to be aware of it – everyone should keep checking themselves because things can go wrong.”

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

May 3, 2023May 3, 2023

Deptford: How Baldr CrossFit is creating a safe space for everyone to exercise

Gym in Deptford’s Childers Street sees David Caetano and Ben Wilson offering multiple options

David Caetano, pictured, and his partner Ben Wilson have launched Baldr CrossFit

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

We wanted a name that represented bravery, humility and honesty,” said David Caetano, co-founder of Baldr CrossFit in Deptford’s Childers Street.

“It’s named after the Norse god Baldr because I lived in Norway for about four years and my mum is still there.

“Everything Baldr does is good, but he doesn’t brag about it, so it’s representative of what we’re trying to create here.”

The virtuous son of chief deities Odin and Frigg, is a firm favourite in Asgard in contrast to the deceptive Loki and bombastic Thor, often because of his calm sweetness – not perhaps the most obvious allegory for the sweat and grind of a south-east London CrossFit gym.

But Baldr’s whole reason for existence is to do things differently.

“Above all, this is an inclusive space,” said David, who founded the gym with his partner Ben Wilson, opening the doors earlier this year.

The Deptford gym has a wealth of of equipment for members to use

“People come in, see the Progress Pride Flag hanging in the window and feel comfortable. This is a place for everyone.

“I came to London from Portugal at a time where there was still stigma around being part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Here, there was anything and everything.

“I became comfortable with my sexuality about three years ago but what I’d noticed was that, when you go to gyms, there wasn’t always representation there. Some do have it and, as soon as I’d walk in, I’d feel safe.

“At Baldr, because we’re LGBTQIA+ we’re more outspoken about this and so people are happier being themselves, speaking about their partners and things like that.

“I really felt there was a need to create something within fitness to change the conversation so we’re not talking in terms of men and women, but about individuals.

“The way we do that is to get away from CrossFit’s weights for men and women and just talk about percentages when we come to the bars and levels of resistance.”

Baldr is located around 10 minutes’ walk from both Deptford and New Cross stations and offers a range of classes for up to 10 people.

Alongside its core CrossFit offering these include weightlifting, gymnastics and Capacity, a barbell-free class designed to improve an individual’s ability to recover from high intensity exercise.

Monthly memberships start at £159 for three classes a week. There are also drop-in packages starting at £20 for a single class as well as small group and one-to-one personal training.

Baldr also offers free trial sessions to new clients so they can get a feel for what the gym offers.

“CrossFit is all about functional movement,” said David.

“Every time you squat, you’re sitting on a couch. The idea is that everything you do in the gym can be transferred to the world outside.

“What we’re trying to do with our programmes is to hit those functional movements so that when you’re 80, you can get off a chair without having to roll over or needing someone to help you.

“We constantly vary the sessions across seven areas of exercise so people will never get bored. The idea is an all-round one so members can say they can lift weights, run a mile and do a certain number of pull-ups.

“We keep the group training small, so we have 10 max in a group, and this makes sure that everyone gets attention in the session, and they get a little bit of personal training in a group setting too.”

The gym is located in Deptford’s Childers Street

With Ben, who works for Deutsche Bank looking after the business side of operations, it’s an offering squarely within David’s area of expertise.

“I was always into fitness and wanted to be good at everything,” said David.

“I originally came to London to study architecture, but sitting in front of a computer all day wasn’t really what I was looking for.

“I started doing CrossFit and then decided to train as a coach – that was about seven years ago.

“After working at my first gym and helping to run it for a few years, I joined Third Space in 2019, working in Canary Wharf.

“The CrossFit gym taught me a lot about running a small fitness business, while working at Third Space enabled me to look at the bigger picture – the language we use in classes and the impact this can have on members.

“I was also able to take a lead and get involved with developing new coaches and instructors, so that experience was really key for this project.

“Ben’s background is in business, finance and accounting, so he handles that side of things whereas I’m on the product side, looking after coaching, development and what we deliver for our members.

“This is perfect because it means we don’t cross over when we’re working together.

“We live close by and were aware there was nothing like this in Deptford, so we started looking to see if there was a space up for rent.

“Then Ben put together a business plan, looking at the area and why Baldr might be needed here – asking what the brand is and what its target audience will be.”

The pair found a space vacated by a fashion manufacturer and set about kitting it out with gym hardware, gender neutral toilets and, of course, the big pride flag.

The gym has been conceived as a safe space where all are welcome

The dream for Baldr is to expand with gyms in a number of parts of London and perhaps beyond.

David said: “We would like to have several locations so that we can attract people living in different areas.

“We are aware gyms can be quite intimidating, especially for people not always comfortable with their sexuality, so we like to chat with them and point out it’s their space, their workout and that we’re here to support them.

“We want to make sure that everyone has a good experience in the community and make sure they get that one-to-one experience in a group setting.

“We are loud and proud, so if you need a space like ours, then we are here for you.”

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

Canary Wharf: How personal training at Third Space delivers the right results

Eliter personal trainer Tim Hart talks focus, science and goals as he puts our writer through his paces

Third Space Canary Wharf elite personal trainer Tim Hart

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

SESSION TEST

Imagine driving your expensive car to a garage, paying a fee and then being let loose on the tools to fettle and prod at your vehicle in the name of maintenance.

Unless you already have a fairly decent body of knowledge, it’s unlikely such activity will yield positive results except in the most basic of jobs.

Now consider how different that is to taking your body – a vehicle you’re born into and will ride in your whole life – to the gym.

Sure, there’s plenty of equipment there, but how well do you really know how to use it? Crucially, will you be doing more harm than good? The logical step is to seek help.

Members at Third Space in Canary Wharf, in addition to an induction session with a trainer, essentially have two avenues to explore in this regard.

There’s an extensive timetable of group classes.

But for those really looking for something bespoke, there are the personal trainers offering one-on-one sessions.

An hour-long session with elite personal trainer Tim Hart was enough to convince me of the benefits of such sessions.

Trained in nutrition and health science, he has a wealth of experience in helping people to reach their goals, tackle physical weaknesses and prepare for intense expeditions.

Consequently, when I told him I wanted to address a bit of knee pain on the right hand side, he was well-qualified to suggest some relevant rehab exercises to improve strength and stability around the joint.

Following a few mobility drills, he soon had me skipping up and down the gym’s track, then leaping sideways from foot to foot, struggling to hold my balance while he watched for signs of instability.

From there, we went to work the core, chest and arms by using moves on a cable machine to ensure all of my body was involved in the exercise.

Then came a series of side-to-side squats with a bar and single leg deadlifts.

During every exercise Tim was constantly keeping an eye on my form, offering corrections and encouragement to ensure I was learning the right movement.

He also explored the range of motion to identify exactly where any discomfort in my knee was occurring – a process that enabled both the modification of the exercises and a far greater awareness of my capabilities than before.

At the end of the session, I left with an arsenal of moves designed to work the affected area without damaging it – a programme that has since seen a big reduction in pain and a great increase in confidence.

That focus, really, is the power of personal training.

It allows, more than any other form of exercise, an ability to address specific issues or goals in detail with the effects multiplied by subsequent, dedicated sessions.

Personal training sessions are charged as extra to membership.

Third Space Canary Wharf is very well-equipped, but how best to use its facilities?

FULL FOCUS – TIM’S THOUGHTS

>> For Tim, who has more than a decade of experience in the health and fitness world, the key to good personal training is putting his clients’ goals front and centre:

>> “From my perspective it’s to provide some science and solid theory behind the process,” he said.

“Your goals will always be your targets, and there may be some worry that a personal trainer is going to hijack what you’re looking for and all of a sudden you’ll be doing exercises you’re not interested in.

“My advice is to find a good personal trainer to start with in an establishment that will have a high calibre of individuals and professionals working in it.

“A client’s aims should always remain the focus and as a customer, you should look for an efficient scientific method being used by the trainer that you feel streamlines the process of really getting to where you want to be.

“For example, if it’s a knee injury and you want to lose weight, then the theory will combine quite nicely by finding exercises that will facilitate a reduction in pain and aid recovery, but will also get you to lose body fat as well.

“Your trainer should not be putting their own goals on you, but be using science and theory to optimise your own goals and help you achieve those results.”

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter here

- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com