Latest reviews for Health & Beauty in London, United Kingdom

Energize Gym - No Nonsense and friendly by 66Nico

66Nico — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:46:25 +0000

Review by 66Nico

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 8748 9933

Website: www.energizefitness.co.uk

A very good value gym, now in new premises. Good free weights, machines and cardio equipment. Bright, natural light and free classes (step, Yoga etc.)
Not too many poseurs, most of the folk are focussed on their training and are friendly.
A very good value gym, now in new premises. Good free weights, machines and cardio equipment. Bright, natural light and free classes (step, Yoga etc.)
Not too many poseurs, most of the folk are focussed on their training and are friendly.

GymBox - Full of gimmick and no honesty by fd4698

fd4698 — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 16:55:22 +0000

Review by fd4698

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7400 1919

Website: http://www.gymbox.co.uk

Tags: massage therapy, bar / cafe, sauna

Pretentious and awful gym. I joined on an offer in the london paper. The sales staff were pushy and superficial, using what seemed like tempting limited offers such as waiving their extortionate joining fee of Â£175 if you sign the contract then and there. I was not happy with all the small print on the contract but was cajoled into joining for the least commitment membership of pay as you go but i later found in the terms and conditions that you still had hidden fees to pay with this. The atmosphere at the gym was disappointing and the staff were very aloof and generally unhelpful. There were always 3 or 4 of each type of machine which were out of order despite the fact that i never see many people using the gym. I read the terms and conditions of my contract and cancelled within the correct time limit (annoyingly even though they sell it as a pay as you go option you need to give a full month's notice and a further maintenance fee if you want to skip a month i.e. you end up paying for NOT going to the gym). Even giving my notice orally and in writing with the un-friendly reception staff and cancelling my direct debit well in advance, another month's payment was still taken from my account. The manager was un-believably rude when I called up about it and it took some talking just to be refunded for the extra month's fee they unlawfully took from me. All in all, it's just one big gimmick so that people can feel like they're getting a new experience but the classes are pretty contrived and either over-crowded or the instructor won't teach if there are 5 or less people. Definitely go elsewhere - this place has short term appeal only!Pretentious and awful gym. I joined on an offer in the london paper. The sales staff were pushy and superficial, using what seemed like tempting limited offers such as waiving their extortionate joining fee of Â£175 if you sign the contract then and there. I was not happy with all the small print on the contract but was cajoled into joining for the least commitment membership of pay as you go but i later found in the terms and conditions that you still had hidden fees to pay with this. The atmosphere at the gym was disappointing and the staff were very aloof and generally unhelpful. There were always 3 or 4 of each type of machine which were out of order despite the fact that i never see many people using the gym. I read the terms and conditions of my contract and cancelled within the correct time limit (annoyingly even though they sell it as a pay as you go option you need to give a full month's notice and a further maintenance fee if you want to skip a month i.e. you end up paying for NOT going to the gym). Even giving my notice orally and in writing with the un-friendly reception staff and cancelling my direct debit well in advance, another month's payment was still taken from my account. The manager was un-believably rude when I called up about it and it took some talking just to be refunded for the extra month's fee they unlawfully took from me. All in all, it's just one big gimmick so that people can feel like they're getting a new experience but the classes are pretty contrived and either over-crowded or the instructor won't teach if there are 5 or less people. Definitely go elsewhere - this place has short term appeal only!

Energy Clinic - Lack of Customer Service by mjennings

mjennings — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:42:59 +0000

Review by mjennings

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7650 0718

Website: http://www.energyclinicuk.com

Tags: massage, healthy food, alternative medicine

Unfortunatly on the day of my treatment i was unwell but was not allowed to cancel. Just to show my complaint and their response, DONT GO HERE if you've ever been ill! Beauticians always have some leniancy towards a 24hr cancellation period but clearly keeping customers is not something they care about. He ignores the fact that he refused to speak with me and that the receptionist didn't call back. He also laughable says it's flu season!! (is he lying about the no. of people, everyone every day calls to cancel?!!) I believe it was the first day of spring!!! I just think companys that value their customers deserve our money far more than ones like the Energy Clinic. He goes on and on about losing money, i go for around 2 treatments a month so yes, he has lost money!
..........................................................
Hi Tarik,

I'm sure you would be able to help.

Yesterday I had myself booked in for an anti-stress cocoon, which I attended to my reluctance. I am currently suffering from the flu and am constantly coughing, my throat is extremely sore and I have a constant headache. I spoke with your receptionist late morning as I realised it would not be suitable for me to attend for the treatment as there was no possibility of me getting anything from it. I was advised that there was a 24hour cancellation period and I would lose my appointment if I did not attend or have someone replace me. I understand that there is a 24hour cancellation period but unfortunately I could, for obvious reasons not foresee that I was going to be ill. I asked to speak with the manager to which I was refused and told that she would try and find a replacement for the 2 hours and call me back at 3pm. I went to lie down and un-surprisingly I received no phone call and my alarm woke me in time to leave for the treatment.

During my treatment, the therapist was very nice and I could tell that the treatment was designed to relax. Unfortunately for me, lying on my back or front caused me extreme discomfort as all I wanted to do was cough, which I did on occasion but I did not want to run the risk of the therapist stopping and me wasting over Â£100. During the wrap, I was told to relax which I tried, but due to me lying on my back in heat I got a migraine and could also not coughing. I left with my skin feeling beautiful but my physical well-being significantly worse. I was very disappointed in the Energy Clinics clear lack of judgement and un-truthful staff. I felt very upset that I was not able to thank the therapist properly as I knew she had done well but I could barely think when I left the Energy Clinic.

Can you please let me know your thoughts on the matter? Myself and a group of friends have a therapist who is leaving the country, much to our disappointment and we are looking for somewhere new to go for our regular treatments. Are you able to suggest any reason why I should recommend your clinic to my friends considering all of the above?

Many Thanks

Magdalena
...........................................................
Dear Magdalena,

Thank you very much for your honest email.

First of all, personally I am very sorry to hear that you havenâ¬"t enjoyed your treatment in Energy Clinic, as this is our aim.

As a manager and a person who has to run the business I have extremely difficult task to balance that business side and any personal situation caused by illness or any other reason that our clients canâ¬"t attend the treatment.

You donâ¬"t need to believe me, but I have daily between 4 â¬ 6 clients wanting to cancel / reschedule their appointments (a big flu season) and as much as I would love to help people, in most of the situations we canâ¬"t do that â¬ it would be easier to just close my business. We are holding the space and the therapists reserved sometimes for 3 - 4 weeks and than a few hours before we found out they canâ¬"t come â¬ as we are very busy, in the meantime we need to refuse xy number of clients who wanted that space, but itâ¬"s booked. Again, as much as I completely understand you personally, Iâ¬"m sure if you would be in my shoes you would understand what Iâ¬"m talking about.

Also, I offered you a solution - if anybody else book the space instead of you, I would happily move your appointment, but sadly it didnâ¬"t happen.

I totally understand that this is not your problem and that you couldnâ¬"t predict the unfortunate illness.

I hope you will understand this and I wish you peaceful and healthy Easter.

Best wishes,

Tarik
...........................................................

Considering it's their aim to have an enjoyable treatment, how can they force people to go when they are ill?!!!

I hope i have provided an insight inta a company which has such a shiny 'celebrity' appearance.

Unfortunatly on the day of my treatment i was unwell but was not allowed to cancel. Just to show my complaint and their response, DONT GO HERE if you've ever been ill! Beauticians always have some leniancy towards a 24hr cancellation period but clearly keeping customers is not something they care about. He ignores the fact that he refused to speak with me and that the receptionist didn't call back. He also laughable says it's flu season!! (is he lying about the no. of people, everyone every day calls to cancel?!!) I believe it was the first day of spring!!! I just think companys that value their customers deserve our money far more than ones like the Energy Clinic. He goes on and on about losing money, i go for around 2 treatments a month so yes, he has lost money!
..........................................................
Hi Tarik,

I'm sure you would be able to help.

Yesterday I had myself booked in for an anti-stress cocoon, which I attended to my reluctance. I am currently suffering from the flu and am constantly coughing, my throat is extremely sore and I have a constant headache. I spoke with your receptionist late morning as I realised it would not be suitable for me to attend for the treatment as there was no possibility of me getting anything from it. I was advised that there was a 24hour cancellation period and I would lose my appointment if I did not attend or have someone replace me. I understand that there is a 24hour cancellation period but unfortunately I could, for obvious reasons not foresee that I was going to be ill. I asked to speak with the manager to which I was refused and told that she would try and find a replacement for the 2 hours and call me back at 3pm. I went to lie down and un-surprisingly I received no phone call and my alarm woke me in time to leave for the treatment.

During my treatment, the therapist was very nice and I could tell that the treatment was designed to relax. Unfortunately for me, lying on my back or front caused me extreme discomfort as all I wanted to do was cough, which I did on occasion but I did not want to run the risk of the therapist stopping and me wasting over Â£100. During the wrap, I was told to relax which I tried, but due to me lying on my back in heat I got a migraine and could also not coughing. I left with my skin feeling beautiful but my physical well-being significantly worse. I was very disappointed in the Energy Clinics clear lack of judgement and un-truthful staff. I felt very upset that I was not able to thank the therapist properly as I knew she had done well but I could barely think when I left the Energy Clinic.

Can you please let me know your thoughts on the matter? Myself and a group of friends have a therapist who is leaving the country, much to our disappointment and we are looking for somewhere new to go for our regular treatments. Are you able to suggest any reason why I should recommend your clinic to my friends considering all of the above?

Many Thanks

Magdalena
...........................................................
Dear Magdalena,

Thank you very much for your honest email.

First of all, personally I am very sorry to hear that you havenâ¬"t enjoyed your treatment in Energy Clinic, as this is our aim.

As a manager and a person who has to run the business I have extremely difficult task to balance that business side and any personal situation caused by illness or any other reason that our clients canâ¬"t attend the treatment.

You donâ¬"t need to believe me, but I have daily between 4 â¬ 6 clients wanting to cancel / reschedule their appointments (a big flu season) and as much as I would love to help people, in most of the situations we canâ¬"t do that â¬ it would be easier to just close my business. We are holding the space and the therapists reserved sometimes for 3 - 4 weeks and than a few hours before we found out they canâ¬"t come â¬ as we are very busy, in the meantime we need to refuse xy number of clients who wanted that space, but itâ¬"s booked. Again, as much as I completely understand you personally, Iâ¬"m sure if you would be in my shoes you would understand what Iâ¬"m talking about.

Also, I offered you a solution - if anybody else book the space instead of you, I would happily move your appointment, but sadly it didnâ¬"t happen.

I totally understand that this is not your problem and that you couldnâ¬"t predict the unfortunate illness.

I hope you will understand this and I wish you peaceful and healthy Easter.

Best wishes,

Tarik
...........................................................

Considering it's their aim to have an enjoyable treatment, how can they force people to go when they are ill?!!!

I hope i have provided an insight inta a company which has such a shiny 'celebrity' appearance.

Bliss - perfect pedicures for the already well-heeled by VictoriaR

VictoriaR — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 19:30:47 +0000

Review by VictoriaR

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7584 3888

Website: http://www.blissworld.com

Tags: massage, manicure

Bliss Spa, for me, is always going to be a triumph of heart/purse over head/budget. For one thing, even by expensive London salon standards, it's at least 20% more expensive than it should be - its facials START at over Â£100, and having visited the New York Bliss spas, I'm all too aware that the services cost the same in dollars as they do in pounds, in some bizarre reverse exchange rate. The telephone manner of the sales staff takes 'brisk' to heights that verge on rudeness, and the pun-matic catalogue is verrrry irritating.

But, on the other hand, it's still a very cool 'location spa', the facials are American (ie, they're not afraid of extractions and will tackle your blackheads until you're squeaky clean - literally) and the waxing (hot and cold wax) is professional and thorough, ideal for the first time Brazilian. The massage is expensive, but gets rave reviews and Keshia is a top manicurist for perfect nails that'll last all week. If you want to treat yourself, or someone, it's the smartest gift certificate in town.Bliss Spa, for me, is always going to be a triumph of heart/purse over head/budget. For one thing, even by expensive London salon standards, it's at least 20% more expensive than it should be - its facials START at over Â£100, and having visited the New York Bliss spas, I'm all too aware that the services cost the same in dollars as they do in pounds, in some bizarre reverse exchange rate. The telephone manner of the sales staff takes 'brisk' to heights that verge on rudeness, and the pun-matic catalogue is verrrry irritating.

But, on the other hand, it's still a very cool 'location spa', the facials are American (ie, they're not afraid of extractions and will tackle your blackheads until you're squeaky clean - literally) and the waxing (hot and cold wax) is professional and thorough, ideal for the first time Brazilian. The massage is expensive, but gets rave reviews and Keshia is a top manicurist for perfect nails that'll last all week. If you want to treat yourself, or someone, it's the smartest gift certificate in town.

Bikram Yoga North - Sweat your way to Success by Glen_Bailey

Glen_Bailey — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:02:56 +0000

Review by Glen_Bailey

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7692 6900

Website: www.BikramYoga.co.uk

Tags: yoga, hot, kentish town

Itâ¬"s not often (well at least in my circle of friends) that you get to stand around topless (guys only, and itâ¬"s optional by the way) in a heated room wearing gym shorts, looking at yourself in the mirror for 90 minutes and sweating like youâ¬"ve never sweated before.

If that hasnâ¬"t scared you off (it nearly scared me off when my partner explained it to me half way through her month long yoga challenge â¬ and I mean every day for a month) then itâ¬"s well worth a try.

I first heard about this type of yoga back in New Zealand where I was taken along to try it out. Iâ¬"d done several types of yoga before so wasnâ¬"t really apprehensive about this style. Maybe slightly concerned when I was told Iâ¬"d need to drink about one and a half large bottles of water before I got to the class, and probably the same again during the class â¬ and that Iâ¬"d probably want to do it topless. I was ok with the water, Iâ¬"m a big water drinker from way back, and as far as the topless aspect went, I said Iâ¬"d wear a vest and see how it went.

Well, the vest lasted around 10minutes before it was drenched in sweat so off it went, never to be seen again.

I was pleased to find several Bikram Yoga studios around London, especially Bikram North, two tube stops away. Perfect for those 6:30am classes they held before Christmas.

There are a variety of teachers at Bikram North, all of whom have there own teaching styles and comments as they move through the 26 postures (each repeated twice â¬ the 1st generally 1 minute and the 2nd generally 30 seconds). Friday night is a favourite of mine, although I hardly ever make it. Itâ¬"s done in the dark with tea-lights around the mirrors â¬ a truly meditative experience. Oh, and thereâ¬"s really good Chai Masala tea on offer afterwards.

I find that no two visits to a Bikram Yoga class are the same. Sometimes youâ¬"ll find it hard and have to lay down for some of the postures (and youâ¬"re not made to feel guilty) and other times youâ¬"ll rock through the whole class doing every posture. You are just encouraged to do what you feel is right for your body on the day - and that will change day to day.

What I find different about Bikram Yoga is that itâ¬"s not just physical exercise which works you inside and out, but it is a challenge mentally to yourself. The first challenge, which the teachers set to new students, is to just stay in the room for the entire 90 minutes, regardless of if youâ¬"re participating or lying down watching. Another challenge the teachers set is to not think about upcoming postures, just accept them and do them the best you can. This can help to hear when your mind starts to wander when you know a challenging posture is coming up.

But the challenge I find the hardest, and I know Iâ¬"m not alone here, is to just stay absolutely still between the floor series postures, otherwise known as the dead posture. You are told to lie back down after a position and relax your entire body, every single muscle, look at one spot on the ceiling and stay still. Itâ¬"s not as easy as you think. The distractions mount up for example the sweat dripping (sometimes pouring) into your eyes, the person next to you moving, someone somewhere groaning, or just the simple fact that sometimes itâ¬"s just really hard to stay still. But, when you get it, itâ¬"s great! Even more, when the whole class gets it, itâ¬"s fantastic! The energy created by everyone staying still is amazing.

If youâ¬"re new to it, drink lots of water before and after the class, donâ¬"t eat 2 hours before (trust me you wonâ¬"t want to, some of the postures push on your stomach), take two towels (one for the yoga mat which will probably end up soaking wet, the other for the shower) and be prepared to be sore the next day. Good news is that the more you go the easier it is! Sounds odd but itâ¬"s true.

And for those newbies of you out there, when I started at Bikram North, they had a really good deal on where you pay Â£10 for 10 days of classes. Great introduction!

Oh, and it really does wonders for your body! You can see it in the mirrors!

Happy yogaring!
Itâ¬"s not often (well at least in my circle of friends) that you get to stand around topless (guys only, and itâ¬"s optional by the way) in a heated room wearing gym shorts, looking at yourself in the mirror for 90 minutes and sweating like youâ¬"ve never sweated before.

If that hasnâ¬"t scared you off (it nearly scared me off when my partner explained it to me half way through her month long yoga challenge â¬ and I mean every day for a month) then itâ¬"s well worth a try.

I first heard about this type of yoga back in New Zealand where I was taken along to try it out. Iâ¬"d done several types of yoga before so wasnâ¬"t really apprehensive about this style. Maybe slightly concerned when I was told Iâ¬"d need to drink about one and a half large bottles of water before I got to the class, and probably the same again during the class â¬ and that Iâ¬"d probably want to do it topless. I was ok with the water, Iâ¬"m a big water drinker from way back, and as far as the topless aspect went, I said Iâ¬"d wear a vest and see how it went.

Well, the vest lasted around 10minutes before it was drenched in sweat so off it went, never to be seen again.

I was pleased to find several Bikram Yoga studios around London, especially Bikram North, two tube stops away. Perfect for those 6:30am classes they held before Christmas.

There are a variety of teachers at Bikram North, all of whom have there own teaching styles and comments as they move through the 26 postures (each repeated twice â¬ the 1st generally 1 minute and the 2nd generally 30 seconds). Friday night is a favourite of mine, although I hardly ever make it. Itâ¬"s done in the dark with tea-lights around the mirrors â¬ a truly meditative experience. Oh, and thereâ¬"s really good Chai Masala tea on offer afterwards.

I find that no two visits to a Bikram Yoga class are the same. Sometimes youâ¬"ll find it hard and have to lay down for some of the postures (and youâ¬"re not made to feel guilty) and other times youâ¬"ll rock through the whole class doing every posture. You are just encouraged to do what you feel is right for your body on the day - and that will change day to day.

What I find different about Bikram Yoga is that itâ¬"s not just physical exercise which works you inside and out, but it is a challenge mentally to yourself. The first challenge, which the teachers set to new students, is to just stay in the room for the entire 90 minutes, regardless of if youâ¬"re participating or lying down watching. Another challenge the teachers set is to not think about upcoming postures, just accept them and do them the best you can. This can help to hear when your mind starts to wander when you know a challenging posture is coming up.

But the challenge I find the hardest, and I know Iâ¬"m not alone here, is to just stay absolutely still between the floor series postures, otherwise known as the dead posture. You are told to lie back down after a position and relax your entire body, every single muscle, look at one spot on the ceiling and stay still. Itâ¬"s not as easy as you think. The distractions mount up for example the sweat dripping (sometimes pouring) into your eyes, the person next to you moving, someone somewhere groaning, or just the simple fact that sometimes itâ¬"s just really hard to stay still. But, when you get it, itâ¬"s great! Even more, when the whole class gets it, itâ¬"s fantastic! The energy created by everyone staying still is amazing.

If youâ¬"re new to it, drink lots of water before and after the class, donâ¬"t eat 2 hours before (trust me you wonâ¬"t want to, some of the postures push on your stomach), take two towels (one for the yoga mat which will probably end up soaking wet, the other for the shower) and be prepared to be sore the next day. Good news is that the more you go the easier it is! Sounds odd but itâ¬"s true.

And for those newbies of you out there, when I started at Bikram North, they had a really good deal on where you pay Â£10 for 10 days of classes. Great introduction!

Oh, and it really does wonders for your body! You can see it in the mirrors!

Happy yogaring!

Cannons Health Club - let there be light! by mazphd

mazphd — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:42:20 +0000

Review by mazphd

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7813 0555

Website: http://www.cannons.co.uk

Tags: yoga, massage, physiotherapy

I'll confess i am an avid gym goer. So when i am on the move (literally) and out of my main city of York i make sure that i have access to various gym facilities.

Cannons, despite its rather small size from the outside, does indeed have it all: Pool, sauna (his n her's), fitness 'suit', spin classes, squash courts, cool down area, bar and even a very compact cafe.

The staff are super friendly and on the day that i went were nice enough to give me a good 20 minute tour. There's an in house Elemis beauty spa for massages etc.

so this all sounds well and good. Except there is one formidable draw back. Mostly underground the gym floor feels like you are working out in a darkened claustrophobic strobe lit environment. And whilst the equipment is well maintained and facilities clean I can't give more than 2 stars to a fitness centre that deprives me of Vitamin D fuelled daylight and rewards your work out with a sun deprived induced headache.

One of the pool and sauna only. For the rest you would be better off using their lockers and taking a run round the blockk and nearby parks!

:-)
I'll confess i am an avid gym goer. So when i am on the move (literally) and out of my main city of York i make sure that i have access to various gym facilities.

Cannons, despite its rather small size from the outside, does indeed have it all: Pool, sauna (his n her's), fitness 'suit', spin classes, squash courts, cool down area, bar and even a very compact cafe.

The staff are super friendly and on the day that i went were nice enough to give me a good 20 minute tour. There's an in house Elemis beauty spa for massages etc.

so this all sounds well and good. Except there is one formidable draw back. Mostly underground the gym floor feels like you are working out in a darkened claustrophobic strobe lit environment. And whilst the equipment is well maintained and facilities clean I can't give more than 2 stars to a fitness centre that deprives me of Vitamin D fuelled daylight and rewards your work out with a sun deprived induced headache.

One of the pool and sauna only. For the rest you would be better off using their lockers and taking a run round the blockk and nearby parks!

:-)

The Factory - DO NOT GO HERE!! by LouiseG

LouiseG — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:24:39 +0000

Review by LouiseG

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7272 1122

Website: http://www.tangolondon.com

Tags: yoga, unique, gym

I went to this venue for an audition recently.
It has an open-spaced gym with resonable studio space and as a venue it is fine...

HOWEVER, the manager of 'The Factory' is extremely rude and aggressive.
Whilst at my audition i accidentally left behind a ring which is of high sentimental value to me and so i called to see if they had found it - they had - and the manager had it in his hand whilst speaking to me.

His tone was awfully rude and he did not try to help at all...he instead threatened to "throw it away" and upset me greatly with the way he spoke to me.

All I can say is that the gym is probably quite satisfactory, but not worth the fact that you will also be greeted by a very angry man who will treat you as if you are dirt on the bottom of his shoe.

What sort of manager treats his customers so?
DO NOT GO HERE!! And if you do, be VERY sure not to leave anything behind!

Kind Regards,

Louise.I went to this venue for an audition recently.
It has an open-spaced gym with resonable studio space and as a venue it is fine...

HOWEVER, the manager of 'The Factory' is extremely rude and aggressive.
Whilst at my audition i accidentally left behind a ring which is of high sentimental value to me and so i called to see if they had found it - they had - and the manager had it in his hand whilst speaking to me.

His tone was awfully rude and he did not try to help at all...he instead threatened to "throw it away" and upset me greatly with the way he spoke to me.

All I can say is that the gym is probably quite satisfactory, but not worth the fact that you will also be greeted by a very angry man who will treat you as if you are dirt on the bottom of his shoe.

What sort of manager treats his customers so?
DO NOT GO HERE!! And if you do, be VERY sure not to leave anything behind!

Kind Regards,

Louise.

Physio in the City - Footfall! by david_2001

david_2001 — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 05:43:59 +0000

Review by david_2001

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7724 8008

Website: www.physiointhecity.co.uk

Tags: physiotherapy, alternative medicine, massage

This place is quite magnificent and offers a range of treatments that will give comfort to anyone suffering pain from a sports related injury.

Physiotherapy, Sports Massage, Shiatsu, Acupuncture, Chiropody and Podiatry are all delivered by highly qualified and experienced staff.

Did you know that podiatrists are qualified to treat people with arthritis, diabetes, sports injuries and those needing nail surgery.

Book in advance, you may have to wait for an appointment.This place is quite magnificent and offers a range of treatments that will give comfort to anyone suffering pain from a sports related injury.

Physiotherapy, Sports Massage, Shiatsu, Acupuncture, Chiropody and Podiatry are all delivered by highly qualified and experienced staff.

Did you know that podiatrists are qualified to treat people with arthritis, diabetes, sports injuries and those needing nail surgery.

Book in advance, you may have to wait for an appointment.

Relax - Started Well..... by Flamehearted

Flamehearted — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 11:27:00 +0000

Review by Flamehearted

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7494 3333

Website: http://www.relax.org.uk

Tags: massage

I recently went along to Relax for an aromatherpay massage. First impressions were very good - nice clean environment, nice welcome on arrival and friendly staff.

However the massage itself left a bit to be desired. Firstly there was a lot of background noise (doors closing in other rooms, people talking etc) and it is clear the rooms are not sound proofed adequately. Seconldy the massage itself was obviously not an aromatherapy massge but more of a vigourous sports massage which is not what I booked. This I guess is the downside of a venue which offers a large range of treatments - are the masseurs really trained and specialists in all of them ?

Masseur also seemed slightly fed up to be there..just another little thing that makes a big difference.

Finally as I left the receptionist seemed to be having a face to face row with a customer which left me with less than a perfect last impression.

Overall adequate but I'll probably try somewhere else next time.I recently went along to Relax for an aromatherpay massage. First impressions were very good - nice clean environment, nice welcome on arrival and friendly staff.

However the massage itself left a bit to be desired. Firstly there was a lot of background noise (doors closing in other rooms, people talking etc) and it is clear the rooms are not sound proofed adequately. Seconldy the massage itself was obviously not an aromatherapy massge but more of a vigourous sports massage which is not what I booked. This I guess is the downside of a venue which offers a large range of treatments - are the masseurs really trained and specialists in all of them ?

Masseur also seemed slightly fed up to be there..just another little thing that makes a big difference.

Finally as I left the receptionist seemed to be having a face to face row with a customer which left me with less than a perfect last impression.

Overall adequate but I'll probably try somewhere else next time.

New River Express Fitness for Women - Friendly gym, fun people by nomadchick

nomadchick — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 04:23:47 +0000

Review by nomadchick

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7226 5444

Website: www.newriverfitness.co.uk

Tags: gym, health club, women's gym

This is a women-only gym, so while there isn't much eye candy to look at, it's very good when you just want to concentrate on your workout. It's a 30 minute workout that you do in steps, perfect to do with friends. This is totally a chill and friendly place.This is a women-only gym, so while there isn't much eye candy to look at, it's very good when you just want to concentrate on your workout. It's a 30 minute workout that you do in steps, perfect to do with friends. This is totally a chill and friendly place.

Grays Health & Fitness - Hidden Gem by sarah7

sarah7 — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 13:05:30 +0000

Review by sarah7

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7483 4130

Website: http://www.graysfitness.com/

I've been training with a personal trainer at Grays for 5 months now and am so happy with the results. I needed to get back into shape after having a baby and would never have been able to do this on my own. My trainer is very knowledgeable and encouraging which makes my sessions enjoyable. All the trainers at Grays seem to be very good so I would recommend this club to anyone.I've been training with a personal trainer at Grays for 5 months now and am so happy with the results. I needed to get back into shape after having a baby and would never have been able to do this on my own. My trainer is very knowledgeable and encouraging which makes my sessions enjoyable. All the trainers at Grays seem to be very good so I would recommend this club to anyone.

The Urban Vitality Company - Was it worth it? by ceedoubleu

ceedoubleu — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 11:37:28 +0000

Review by ceedoubleu

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 8987 9478

Website: www.theurbanvitalitycompany.co.uk

Tags: fitness and wellbeing

The Boot Camp is over, a month of attending three nights a week and being pushed hard for about an hour and I can now review how it went.

The sessions were great. Good fun and physically demanding at the same time. It definitely helped to be a part of a group.

I delighted with the results. I have lost 4kgs and am generally much more toned than I was a month ago. I have a lot more energy, I am sleeping well and waking up refreshed and looking forward to the day ahead. My overall attitude has become very positive.

I'm now going to have a month of exercising under my own steam and then sign up for another Boot Camp in March.

It has been a very positive experience and I am pleased to highly recommend The Urban Vitality Company.The Boot Camp is over, a month of attending three nights a week and being pushed hard for about an hour and I can now review how it went.

The sessions were great. Good fun and physically demanding at the same time. It definitely helped to be a part of a group.

I delighted with the results. I have lost 4kgs and am generally much more toned than I was a month ago. I have a lot more energy, I am sleeping well and waking up refreshed and looking forward to the day ahead. My overall attitude has become very positive.

I'm now going to have a month of exercising under my own steam and then sign up for another Boot Camp in March.

It has been a very positive experience and I am pleased to highly recommend The Urban Vitality Company.

Paddington Sports Club - Tennis, bowls, squash anyone? by david_2001

david_2001 — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 08:37:31 +0000

Review by david_2001

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7286 8448

Website: http://www.psclondon.co.uk

Tags: tennis, squash, gym

I must declare a degree of bias here as this is my local club but in the interests of balance I will try and be objective (uuurrhum).

As well a tennis, bowls and squash there is also a gymnasium, sauna and beauty therapies available.

Additional options are yoga and pilates.

The tennis courts are superior although a little open to the elements being no indoor facilities.

All standards of players are welcome and all 3 coaches are friendly, qualified and organised.

Discount membership is available to LTA 3.1=> ratings.

There is a huge indoor bowls green and an extremely well tendered outdoor green. All levels of player from all ages are welcome. You will be keeping good company as the club has produced 25 national champions and 35 internationals over the years.

Squash is just and enthusiastically pursued with ladies, mens and veterans league teams and numerous club tournaments.

Oh, did I mention that there is an excellent bar, Thai restaurant and this weeks social events include salsa dancing on Monday and the well renowned Odyssey Blues Band playing live on Friday, February the 1st, 2008.

Non members are encouraged to attend the social events and generally (unless you are a tennis, bowls, squash guest) there is no charge.

Please treat the staff and officials at this club with respect and the courtesy that they deserve.I must declare a degree of bias here as this is my local club but in the interests of balance I will try and be objective (uuurrhum).

As well a tennis, bowls and squash there is also a gymnasium, sauna and beauty therapies available.

Additional options are yoga and pilates.

The tennis courts are superior although a little open to the elements being no indoor facilities.

All standards of players are welcome and all 3 coaches are friendly, qualified and organised.

Discount membership is available to LTA 3.1=> ratings.

There is a huge indoor bowls green and an extremely well tendered outdoor green. All levels of player from all ages are welcome. You will be keeping good company as the club has produced 25 national champions and 35 internationals over the years.

Squash is just and enthusiastically pursued with ladies, mens and veterans league teams and numerous club tournaments.

Oh, did I mention that there is an excellent bar, Thai restaurant and this weeks social events include salsa dancing on Monday and the well renowned Odyssey Blues Band playing live on Friday, February the 1st, 2008.

Non members are encouraged to attend the social events and generally (unless you are a tennis, bowls, squash guest) there is no charge.

Please treat the staff and officials at this club with respect and the courtesy that they deserve.

Danceworks - nothing special by LindaHii

LindaHii — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 09:34:27 +0000

Review by LindaHii

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7629 6183

Website: http://www.danceworks.co.uk

Tags: dance, fitness, cultured

I thought it was okay but not as good as pineapple studios.It's deff cheaper but the teachers aren't as good and sometimes it can be quite crowded and not have enough space!
I thought it was okay but not as good as pineapple studios.It's deff cheaper but the teachers aren't as good and sometimes it can be quite crowded and not have enough space!

Life Therapy Centre - Hypnotherapist by peggy0027

peggy0027 — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:29:46 +0000

Review by peggy0027

Rating: 5.00

Website: http://www.lifetherapycentre.com/en

Tags: alternative medicine

excellent therapy, very efficient and trustable, I got wonderful changes and I'd recommand it to anyone who's looking for precise and quick therapy.excellent therapy, very efficient and trustable, I got wonderful changes and I'd recommand it to anyone who's looking for precise and quick therapy.

PJ Cousin - Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine by heretix

heretix — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 16:20:18 +0000

Review by heretix

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7376 1199

Website: http://www.cure-by-nature.co.uk/

Tags: alternative medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture

PJ Cousin M.B.Ac.C is a registered acupuncturist and herbalist with 25 years experience in natural medicine; he also learned massage, homeopathy, Eastern and Western Herbalism as well as acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
PJ Cousin taught all these subjects for 12 years in this country and abroad. A prolific writer he has worked as a contributor on nine books, including 3 volumes of an encyclopedia; as a sole author, he has written three best selling books: "Facelift at your fingertips", "Natural recipes for a perfect skin" and "Food is Medicine".PJ Cousin M.B.Ac.C is a registered acupuncturist and herbalist with 25 years experience in natural medicine; he also learned massage, homeopathy, Eastern and Western Herbalism as well as acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
PJ Cousin taught all these subjects for 12 years in this country and abroad. A prolific writer he has worked as a contributor on nine books, including 3 volumes of an encyclopedia; as a sole author, he has written three best selling books: "Facelift at your fingertips", "Natural recipes for a perfect skin" and "Food is Medicine".

Lambton Place Health Club - Work it! by belinda

belinda — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 16:55:28 +0000

Review by belinda

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7229 2291

Website: http://www.lambton.co.uk

Tags: fitness, pool, health

We have been members for a few months now and have found this club great. The club consists of a gym, classes (yoga, stetch, swim-arobics etc), massage, swimming pool, therapies, suntanning, beauty treatments, and more.

Staff are super friendly, although I have yet to go to any classes but I do have neighbours who have been going for years so I guess they must like it!

Gym is not the largest but it is not full of posers and I feel very comfortable in my creased trackies and no-make-up look. I have never seen it ultra-crowded although I do tend to avoid the mornings and early evenings.

They have runners, bikes, cross-trainers all with TV and you can bring your own DVDs to watch.

You get a free training session every month with your membership and 5 in the first month to get you going on your way.

And they seem to have quite abit for pregnant women - personalised training, massage and advice.

I would definately recommend this health club for anyone around the Notting Hill area, you can pop in for a tour and they will show you around (we did this first) and you can pay monthly and not be tied into any long contract.
Check out their website for more info:
http://www.lambton.co.uk/index.htmWe have been members for a few months now and have found this club great. The club consists of a gym, classes (yoga, stetch, swim-arobics etc), massage, swimming pool, therapies, suntanning, beauty treatments, and more.

Staff are super friendly, although I have yet to go to any classes but I do have neighbours who have been going for years so I guess they must like it!

Gym is not the largest but it is not full of posers and I feel very comfortable in my creased trackies and no-make-up look. I have never seen it ultra-crowded although I do tend to avoid the mornings and early evenings.

They have runners, bikes, cross-trainers all with TV and you can bring your own DVDs to watch.

You get a free training session every month with your membership and 5 in the first month to get you going on your way.

And they seem to have quite abit for pregnant women - personalised training, massage and advice.

I would definately recommend this health club for anyone around the Notting Hill area, you can pop in for a tour and they will show you around (we did this first) and you can pay monthly and not be tied into any long contract.
Check out their website for more info:
http://www.lambton.co.uk/index.htm

LA Fitness - Holborn - Not much room to move by Frankie

Frankie — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 22:10:48 +0000

Review by Frankie

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 0845 355 4489

Website: http://www.lafitness.co.uk

Tags: gym, fitness, health

LA Fitness is fairly reliable across it's clubs but the ones on commuter routes are almost as bad as London Underground during the rush hour. In fact most of them are underground but the saving grace of this club is the ground floor location with windows and daylight!

Apart from that I was pretty disappointed. It's very cramped and manic in there with a damp sweaty atmosphere. Stretching mats are laid back-to-back, almost overlapping, the swimming pool is tiny and the showers are appalling. They dribble and you have to keep pushing a button to keep the water 'running'. The temperature goes hot and cold. yuch.

I'll finish with a couple of good points though: the spinning class has a separate room, the mats were new and the weights equipment worked well enough. Good selection of different aerobics machines such as sitting down cycling, running, normal cycling, cycling with your arms, stairs and more. Staff helpful.LA Fitness is fairly reliable across it's clubs but the ones on commuter routes are almost as bad as London Underground during the rush hour. In fact most of them are underground but the saving grace of this club is the ground floor location with windows and daylight!

Apart from that I was pretty disappointed. It's very cramped and manic in there with a damp sweaty atmosphere. Stretching mats are laid back-to-back, almost overlapping, the swimming pool is tiny and the showers are appalling. They dribble and you have to keep pushing a button to keep the water 'running'. The temperature goes hot and cold. yuch.

I'll finish with a couple of good points though: the spinning class has a separate room, the mats were new and the weights equipment worked well enough. Good selection of different aerobics machines such as sitting down cycling, running, normal cycling, cycling with your arms, stairs and more. Staff helpful.

Integrated Bodywork - Excellent Deep Tissue Massage Practitioner by Carberry

Carberry — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 14:48:28 +0000

Review by Carberry

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 07946 389763

Website: http://www.integratedbodywork.co.uk/

Tags: massage, deep tissue massage, alternative medicine

If you're looking for a therapeutic massage practitioner that will find all those stressed out spots, you need to see Sue Carberry @ The Langham Studio. Sue's massage is deep, sometimes a little painful, but you'll walk out feeling taller, more flexible and de-stressed. Simply brilliant!!!If you're looking for a therapeutic massage practitioner that will find all those stressed out spots, you need to see Sue Carberry @ The Langham Studio. Sue's massage is deep, sometimes a little painful, but you'll walk out feeling taller, more flexible and de-stressed. Simply brilliant!!!

Fitrooms - Fitness for a great rate / Basic by MikeinLondon

MikeinLondon — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 22:40:35 +0000

Review by MikeinLondon

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7610 1410

Website: http://www.fitrooms.com

Tags: yoga, massage

This Gym changed owners a few times over the last few years. It is now known as Fitrooms.
It offers Fitness at a great rate. It is spacious with Sauna and Steam Rooms. Feeling is a little dated but ok. Located on the busy North End Road Fulham. No Parking.This Gym changed owners a few times over the last few years. It is now known as Fitrooms.
It offers Fitness at a great rate. It is spacious with Sauna and Steam Rooms. Feeling is a little dated but ok. Located on the busy North End Road Fulham. No Parking.