'Best' is a big word, and the right gym for a beginner isn't always the one with the flashiest kit. What you need when you're starting out is coaching, patience and a room where nobody looks at you twice. So rather than simply telling you we're the best HIIT gym in NW6 for beginners(we'd say that, wouldn't we?), here's what to look for, and how we try to live up to it.

If you're comparing general gyms as well as studios, read our guide to finding the right gym in West Hampstead first. This article is specifically about starting HIIT from scratch.

Every class is coached

HIIT is demanding, and poor technique raises the risk of injury. A beginner-friendly studio has a coach who watches how you move and corrects you during the session. Our classes are fully coached, and trainers give alternative movements so everyone works at a suitable intensity. It's one reason our members say coach-led classes beat training alone.

Exercises are scaled, not skipped

You don't need to be fit to start, although a basic level of fitness helps. What matters is that every exercise has an easier version, so you can join the same class as someone who has been coming for years and still get a proper workout.

Sessions are short

All our classes are 45 minutes. That's long enough to work hard and short enough that beginners don't burn out halfway through, and it's easier to fit around work.

There's a structured way in

A good beginner experience starts before your first class. Our 2-week Kickstart gives you four sessions and a goal-setting consultation, so you start with a plan rather than guessing.

HIIT or SGPT: which suits beginners?

We run two types of training, and both work for beginners. The right one depends on how you like to train.

SGPT is especially good if you're returning from injury, feel unsure in a gym or want to build confidence with weights. HIIT suits people who want to get fitter fast and enjoy a lively group. You can find out more on our HIIT classes and SGPT classes pages.

How often should a beginner train?

Start with two sessions a week and leave at least a day between them. Once that feels comfortable, move up to three. Doing HIIT too often, especially early on, is how people get sore, tired and put off. Our coaches explain why in is HIIT safe every day?

Two or three 45-minute classes a week, plus some walking, puts you well on the way to the NHS physical activity guidelines for adults. If you're coming back after a long break, an injury or a baby, tell your coach. SGPT is a good place to rebuild, and new mums can also look at our postnatal fitness classes.

What members say

We have over 400 five-star Google reviews, and a lot of them mention the coaches by name. One member described working out harder than she ever had, while staff kept her motivated all the way through. Another praised the trainers for always being there to answer questions and give advice. You can read more on our reviews page.

Your first class checklist

• Book through our app and arrive ten minutes early.
• Wear comfortable training clothes and bring water, a towel and a padlock for the lockers.
• Tell the coach it's your first class and mention any injuries.
• Go at your own pace. Nobody expects you to keep up with the regulars on day one.

Our first-timer's guide to choosing a class in NW6 will help you pick which class to book. If you'd like to talk to a coach before starting, get in touch. We're on Broadhurst Gardens, 30 seconds from West Hampstead tube.