Virgin Active is rolling out a new fusion ballet class as it bids to bring the spirit of boutique Los Angeles studios to its UK clubs.

The new Barre workout is based on the bootybarre class developed by LA-based Pilates, dance, and fitness expert Tracey Mallett. Barre combines classical ballet moves with Pilates, yoga and balance to offer an energetic workout designed to tone, define and sculpt the whole body.

The new offering is one of the first products to have emerged from Virgin Active’s recently-announced Discovery Lab – a creative hub made up of health and fitness experts that will drive development of products and classes.

The Discovery Lab has been put together by Virgin Active’s head of fitness, Andy Birch, and is led by the chain’s innovation and fitness team, including James Trevorrow (master of movement), Gillian Reeves (Groupex Guru) and Hugh Hanley (Super Trainer). The panel are also joined by a series of independent experts and partners, working together to share knowledge, ideas and concepts.

“With Barre fitness classes such a hot fitness topic, it was important for us to find the right class for our members and Tracey’s programme really stood out,” said Reeves.

“Her well established and well respected programme, bootybarre, honours the integrity of both Barre and Pilates to give a great workout that is a lot of fun.”