It may have just opened, but Virgin Active’s newest boutique health club was already buzzing when we paid a recent visit. Located on the ground floor of the honeycomb towers of Duo, it’s almost laughably close to Bugis MRT. This easy accessibility and downtown location are just two positives of a club that can help you get the most out every workout. So, if you have been considering joining a gym, or have been looking to switch up your exercise regime, head to Duo Galleria.
Get ready
With workout clothes and towels on hand to borrow, there’s no need to lug your sports bag around (though you will need to bring your own footwear). Download the Virgin Active Singapore app and you can even book into your classes on the go.
Virgin Active only offer flexible, 6-month and 12-month membership options, so you needn’t be tied down by a long-term contract. Plus membership fees are deducted every fortnight, which means you don’t feel the same pinch on your purse strings as with upfront, lump sum payments. Whatever option you choose, you’ll also have free unrestricted access to all five of Virgin’s Singapore clubs and a multitude of others worldwide.
Get set
Virgin Active Duo Galleria is smaller than the company’s other flagship venues. However, clever use of space means it incorporates a surprising number of ways to work up a sweat.
There’s the fully equipped gym floor decked with Technogym workout machines that allow you to track your progress through your phone. The High Energy Studio offers a range of dance- and fight-based classes. The Mind and Body Studio is the place to get your yoga on. Spin your wheels at the Advanced Cycle Studio where classes include Les Mills’ RPM and SPRINT. There’s also one of Singapore’s largest Pilates reformer studios, complete with Stott reformer beds.
For those who really want to feel the burn, Virgin Active has also come up with H.E.A.T. (High Energy Athletic Training). Designed for time-poor professionals who want to stay trim, this is an ultra-rigorous workout packed into a 45-minute session. It’s pretty intense stuff and you need to build up to the full 45 minutes, but at its peak, participants can expect to burn 1,000 calories per session.
Go!
On our visit, we took the more sedate option of a Reformer Starter class. Led by upbeat but patient instructor Kho Waihan, this class familiarises you with the workings of the Reformer bed. Don’t be fooled though, you’ll still be stretching a bunch of muscles you forgot you had, plus you’ll come out with the confidence and knowledge to progress to more challenging sessions.
Screens outside each studio let you know what classes are on when, and outside of those times, members can use the equipment for their own private workout, or with their personal trainer. The public can even get in on the act with free outdoor classes held in Duo’s public plaza on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
And relax…
Of course, it’s not just about making it easy to get fit, it’s also about feeling good. Take a moment to chill in the reception-lounge area with a drink and healthy snack before heading to the showers. Wash away the day with a rain shower and luxe Panpuri shower products. Hairdryers, ceramic straighteners and even an iron and ironing board mean you’ll be walking out of here fresher and fitter than when you walked in.
As the saying goes: “The proof is in the pudding”. If you’re keen to check out Virgin Active’s newest club and its facilities, book yourself a non-obligatory tour.
#01-09 DUO Galleria
7 Fraser Street
6911 0328 | virginactive.com.sg
Get more advice on staying healthy in our Health & Fitness section.
