Foundry is a gym designed for anyone who wants to work out in an environment free from egos, posers or pressure – and it's just around the corner, next to Sainsbury's in Richmond. 

The site opened in Richmond in 2022 and is one of five Foundry gyms across London (the other sites are Vauxhall, Old Street, Bank and North Kensington).  

Nub News recently sat down with Henari Veratau, Head Coach at Foundry Richmond, to find out more about what makes this gym special.  

Henari said: "We really focus on the idea that everyone is welcome.  

"We aren't about egos, we're about training hard but also having fun at the same time. 

"We know that gyms can be very nerve-wracking places to walk into – so we try to make it a space where everyone is welcome.  

"You come as you are, and from there we can teach you how to move, how to train hard, and how to achieve your goals." 

Nub News recently sat down with Henari Veratau, Head Coach at Foundry Richmond, to find out more about what makes this gym special. (Photo Credit: Foundry).

Henari explained that when people join the gym, they kick off with a 1:1 evaluation: a chat through your exercise history, goals, and any niggles or injuries; a movement screen; and an optional body composition analysis.  

This allows the whole coaching team to get to know the person; and gives them the insight they need to  tailor the Foundry Small Group Personal Training sessions to each individual. 

They try to make the gym as welcoming as possible. (Photo Credit: Foundry).

He said: "It really is about community – about people coming together, having the same sort of objectives, and working together in a welcoming space without being judged. We don't have any mirrors here in the gym because we're not focused on how you look or what you're wearing.  

"We want people training in a place where they feel comfortable." 

He also explained that they have a busy events and socials calendar: "We have in-house competitions, Saturday brunch, and visit places like Ibiza and Morocco to add some spice to the training schedule.Life is about balance, and we try to provide that for our members." 

Voted the best gym in London 2023, Foundry runs personal training sessions on the hour, every hour in their five sites across London. (Photo Credit: Foundry).

He said: "My favourite thing about working here is the people.  

"We have a diverse range of people come through the door, from a range of backgrounds., I'm Australian and haven't been in the UK for too long, but I feel at home here – you get to meet so many people and it's just interesting. 

"Every session is a different conversation and a different sort of fulfilment." 

Voted the best gym in London 2023, Foundry runs personal training sessions on the hour, every hour in their five sites across London.  

They ease new members in with their 21-Day Challenge, giving you the chance to experience the gym without any ongoing commitment.  

You can find out more about Foundry here.