New high intensity interval training workout Tabata will be launched across London from 1st September 2013, with Fitness First health clubs being the first in the world to offer the officially endorsed, scientifically-backed sessions.

Tabata's first commercial arrangement – between Universal Pictures International Entertainment (UPIE), fitness programme producers Big Shot Productions and Fitness First – will see the workout initially available as both group exercise classes and small group training sessions at 50 Fitness First clubs in London.

The official Tabata system was developed by Japanese scientist Professor Izumi Tabata while he was working with the Japanese Olympic speed skating team on their fitness programme.

The Tabata method consists of a combination of 20 seconds of intense exercise, followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated eight times over a four-minute period.

According to its developers, Tabata has been scientifically proven to be the most effective way to increase both aerobic and anaerobic fitness.

Each 20-minute class will include mobilisation, warm up and cool down routines. Instructors will be introduced to new routines and moves every 12 weeks to ensure participants are kept actively engaged and motivated.

For the UK launch of Tabata, Fitness First's instructors will work with a qualified Tabata master trainer to ensure they are fully equipped to deliver the 20-minute classes.

The workouts will feature dynamic bodyweight moves that raise heart rate in order to get participants up to their maximum heart rate over the crucial four-minute Tabata section of the workout.

To find out more about Tabata, click here to read an interview with Jayne Irving of Big Shot Productions in the June issue of Health Club Managementmagazine.