Tried & Tested: Team Sassy Checks Out Project S

“Life Begins Outside Your Comfort Zone” — Team Sassy went behind the scenes to discover exactly what makes Project S so unique.

There have been whispers in the wellness space of a brand new boutique fitness studio in the heart of Sheung Wan. A bright and lofty space perched high up in the penthouse of The Chelsea. There were rumours of never-before-seen group fitness classes and lux amenities to help you get on with your day in style.

Always here to help, Team Sassy grabbed our active wear and put Project S’s signature classes and 5-star facilities to the test. We like to think we’re a representative bunch and amongst our crew were seasoned gym junkies, lapsed fitness fans and those who dabble with the occasional workout.

First Impressions of Project S

As the elevator doors open we enter the light and airy studio. With fresh flowers and neutral tones, it really makes for an inviting modern space. We check out the spinning room, fully equipped with the latest bikes (cue the nervous glances from the cardio-phobes) and then the fitness studio with breathtaking views from either side of the windows.

Fitness Classes at Project S

Regular gym-goers will be familiar with Les Mills classes. Project S offers crowd-pleasing 45 to 50-minute favourites like BodyPump, RPM and BodyBalance alongside 30-minute high-intensity SPRINT and GRIT. But what really sets this studio apart is the signature Project Strong 50-minute classes which combine a 25-minute HIIT-style weight session with 25 minutes of spinning.

Project Strong Fitness Classes

First up we hit the weights. Project S founder and lead instructor Sarah walks us through all we’ll need. We grab the lululemon yoga mats (a nice touch!), set up our barbells and then get ready for two rounds of interval training. Each set works a different area, there are squats, presses, core work and burpees (did you even train if you didn’t do a burpee!).

With Sarah’s personal touch there are easy modifications to suit all fitness levels. More experienced team members amped up their workout by adding heel raises, jumps and pulses to their moves, while those with less experience or injury could dial it down as needed. Overall striking the right balance of less impact (important for those of us with dodgy backs and weak ankles) while maintaining form and keeping our hearts pumping.

Next up it was over to the bikes. These machines use the latest tech to track your training but are suitable for all levels of fitness. Experienced spinners can bring along cycling shoes with SPD cleats to maximise their workouts, but regular workout shoes are fine too.

There were a few first time-spinners amongst our group, including this writer. If I’m honest, I’ve always found bikes intimidating and my knowledge of spin classes is walking past dark, night-club-like rooms en route to the group fitness classes. But, never one to knock it until I’ve tried it, I hopped on my bike and did my best to look like a natural. There were a few nervous glances (especially with our legs already wobbling from the weights), but just as in our strength session, Sarah was able to see how we were going and make adjustments to tailor the workout to our fitness levels.

Studio Facilities

Where Project S really elevates your experience is in the changing rooms and facilities. There were collective “oohs” and “ahhs” as we explored the luxe bathrooms. One of the challenges all of us have found when squeezing fitness into our days is having that comfortable space to refresh before cracking on for the next appointment.

The showers had that 5-star hotel feel with rain showers and customised local bath and body products. We could definitely see ourselves putting the Dyson hairdryers to good use and lingering a little longer doing our make-up with the natural light flooding in. The USB-charging points in the lockers were a thoughtful touch, as was the addition of long hanging to keep our clothes neat and tidy while we train. We also really loved the lounge area with tea and coffee available, perfect for catching up with gym-buddies post-workout while admiring the gorgeous views.

Project S Packages

Naturally, we couldn’t check out Project S and not start comparing prices. We were pleasantly surprised to find there were no lock-in contracts, simply pay as you go. Casual, single-class passes are $280/$380 (for a 30-minute or 50-minute class respectively) and when you purchase a package, that comes down to as low as $210/$310 per class. The team was in collective agreement: great value for the variety of classes, premium quality of facilities and expertise of the instructors on offer.

Sassy Tip: Take advantage of the 2 For 1 First Timer Package from $280!

Project S, 33-34/F, The Chelsea, 69 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2328 8211, [email protected], www.project-s.com.hk