A leisure centre in Kent is introducing group exercise classes in a bid to encourage more people to work out.

tmactive is launching bodycombat and bodypum classes at the Angel Centre in Tonbridge in the new year.

The sessions, which will be updated with new music and moves every three months to ensure they are fresh and in line with research, include the use of bars and weights to help with strength and aerobic activities to increase fitness.

Studies carried out at the American College of Sports Medicine and Penn State University in the USA reveal the diversity of group classes makes us less likely to get bored, while the structure of classes plus the competition fostered by exercising alongside our peers means we’re more likely to workout harder and for longer than we would on our own.

Bodycombat and bodypum classes already run at Larkfield Leisure Centre and will launch in Tonbridge on January, 6.

Bradley Watson, health and fitness manager at The Angel Centre, said: “There’s no doubt that exercising as part of a class helps to boost motivation and gives you the incentive to workout harder and for longer.

"The classes are carefully choreographed so they’re fun but effective. They’re a great way to get into exercise if you’re a beginner, and the group stimulus will help you stick with it as you work towards your fitness goals.”

More than 200 people attended a taster event held at the Angel Centre.

For more info visit www.angelcentre.co.uk or call 01732 772690.