By Beryl Burton
There is a women’s-only gym at 44 Portland Place. It’s the only ladies-only gym in the area it is owned and operated by the YWCA Central Club.
It has been at this address for over two years, yet is still a well-kept secret. And being in a Grade 1 listed eighteenth-century town house, no signs and plaques are allowed and so is a little difficult to find.
The club includes a cafe, a gym and health facilities. It also offers a range of courses as well as a marvellous club lounge. Members are entitled to use the club building and facilities during opening hours and may bring guests.
You can enjoy the licensed cafe internet access, a programme of events which include a film club, a book club, club nights, use of a photographic darkroom, a comfortable lounge to relax in.
There are many courses on offer, including language courses, belly dancing. So, if you have always wanted to shake those hips, why not go along.
A Women’s Business Club is also on offer, where invited speakers talk on a variety of subjects of interest to business women.
For those who prefer to sing, there is the choir. This meets on Wednesdays at 6 pm.
Men are allowed in only as associate members but only for them to attend courses and events. Aren’t we women kind, giving them a look in?