Boxing at theLodge.space

TRY-IT TUESDAYS: Boxing at theLodge.space

Proudly stood on a busy road in Canada Water, the theLodge.space and I might never have crossed paths had it not been for my lovely friend Abbey. After inviting me to attend a free boxing taster session well after my bedtime (8pm), I remembered I'm 23, cardiovascularly-challenged and should probably stop being such a bore.

theLodge.space is incredibly easy on the eyes. Boasting a large seating area, 3 studios and an outside space that would satisfy any need to escape the city, the oriental decor has you quickly questioning whether you are, in fact, a Tibetan Monk. The café itself is kitted-out with bulky but sleek redwood furnishings, yet still feels airy enough thanks to the high ceilings and windowed walls that allow light to flood the space. You're never far from a Buddha sculpture nor a health-conscious pre/post workout meal, freshly prepared by the in-house chef team. As a form of bribery, Abbey also whizzed me up a hazelnut cappuccino which I have no hesitation in saying, was one of the best and most needed coffees (remember, it's 8pm and I was about to do unwarranted cardio) I'd had in a while.

The outside space

Luckily for me, Abbey (whilst annoyingly petite and toned), isn't a huge fan of getting hot and sweaty so I knew that we'd at least be able to laugh our way through any of the class we weren't able to breathe properly for. Our trainer Jules quickly assured the class of 12 that whilst we'd probably feel like faking a full bladder and bolting to the nearest pub, having a good time was the main objective even if you felt like your lungs were dislodging from their intended place. Somehow this didn't put me at ease but before I had a chance to protest, we were straight into technique and warming up my neglected heart.

I can't say many people have wronged me in my 23 years, but if you feel like you have at any point, I can guarantee I used your face as motivation during that hour. Talk about stress relief! Hooks, jabs, squats, guard - there were so many movements I honestly felt like Ali's secret lovechild. Before you had a chance to realise your brow was an undiscovered tributary to the Thames, you'd finished the exercise and began another. Intense punching, quick sprints and even a 'Graze Box rewarded' competition kept the entire session dynamic, varied and above all else, fun. Just like that, it was 9pm and all that was left was some core exercises and a much-needed stretch. From my core to my calves to my chest, my muscles felt worked but not like I'd have trouble walking the next day - a very happy medium.

Overall, I had a great time and definitely got a decent workout in. Anthony Joshua might not have anything to worry about just yet but I reckon my chances of leaving a bruise on one of his sculpted-by-a-higher-power biceps certainly increased by a smidge.

theLodge.space : The Lodge, 120a, Lower Rd, London SE16 2UB