The Tabata high intensity interval training programme has just been launched at Glasgow Clubs, part of Glasgow Life, and is now also available at Fitness First, Everyone Active and Active4Less Gyms.

The Tabata system, developed by Japanese scientist Professor Izumi Tabata during work with the Japanese Olympic speed skating team, uses short sharp bursts of intense exercise to get fit quickly.

Tabata group classes last 20 minutes and feature bodyweight moves that have a heart-pumping effect, aiming to get participants up to their maximum heart rate over a four-minute interval.

Each class includes a mobilisation, warm up and cool down routine and instructors will be introduced to new routines and moves every 12 weeks.