Want to keep fit, but dread the thought of entering a gym full of hardcore bodybuilders? Marie Madden takes a look inside the recently opened, female-only Energie Fitness centre at Briarhill Business Park to find out if the 30 minute work-out really is the way to get going

With female-only fitness centres becoming more and more popular, Energie Fitness is a welcome addition to the city's exercise scene. Centrally located in one of Galway's busiest commercial areas, this new gym aims to provide its members with a wide variety of exercise options under one membership.

Already well known throughout the UK, Energie has only recently spread to Ireland, opening clubs in Waterford and Wexford as well as Galway. From the pink décor in the changing rooms to the open-plan nature of the gym itself, Energie has a very welcoming and relaxed feel and is very customer orientated.

Rather than just offering a 30-minute circuit like other female orientated gyms, Energie aims for a more holistic approach. The gym is divided into a number of different sections, including a 30-minute all over body circuit, equipped with hydraulic resistance equipment. The Energie Express workout is designed to provide a time-efficient solution for busy women who find it hard to fit exercise into their hectic schedules. A traditional gym set up of cardiovascular equipment, including treadmills, cross-trainers, step machines and rowing machines, is also available for those who would like a change from the circuit system.

Everyone who joins Energie is enrolled in the six-week 'results guaranteed' programme, which aims to transform health and fitness through personal training, nutritional information and friendly motivation. A wide range of fitness classes have also recently been added to the gym's programme including Abs Blast, Stability Ball, Boxercise and Hip Hop Dance. Alongside Energie's renowned six-week programme, these classes offer a fun and motivational way to kick start your exercise routine.