Instructors at David Lloyd Leisure, Virgin Active and Fitness First are currently working with some 1,000 teenagers from four schools in Brent, London, as part of the FIA’s Go programme.

Go introduces teenage girls to physical activity via school club links and is being funded by NHS London.

Emma Taylor, head of girls’ PE at Preston Manor High School, which has linked with Fitness First in Kilburn and Alperton, said: “Some pupils who have disliked PE in the past now have a new appreciation for sport and are very excited to use local gyms.”

The 12-week programme will see teenagers undertake sports including yoga, pilates, salsa, street dance and aqua aerobics, and will measure their changing attitude towards activity.

Rob Beale, health and fitness manager at David Lloyd Leisure, said: “We’re thrilled to inspire the girls to be healthy by offering our fantastic facilities and instructors.”

Carl McCartney, at Virgin Active, says: “The Go programme is a fantastic opportunity to put the fun element back into exercise and to build confidence and self-esteem which, in turn, can create positive exercise habits in the future.”