A new directory of group fitness classes – claimed to be the largest of its kind – aims to make it easier for people to find suitable exercise sessions.

Featuring more than 40,000 classes across the UK, the new Classfinder will allow users to view nearby classes using their postcode. It will present a list of available activities and contact details for the instructor or organiser.

The platform, launched by EMD UK – the national governing body for group exercise – contains seven key group exercise discipline filters, including cardio, strength and conditioning and dance fitness. Users can also filter classes to include classes suitable for their specific needs, such as classes designed for new mothers or for those over 60.

Development work for Classfinder has received funding from Sport England and it has also been made open data-enabled through a partnership with the Open Data Institute (ODI).

The open data aspect will allow Instructors, leisure operators and other physical activity organisations open their class data via the ODI to automatically be seen in active searches.

“Classfinder revolutionises the way people search for group exercise classes," said Shelley Meyern, head of business development for EMD UK.

"No longer do you have to visit two, three, four different websites before finding the class you want – an extensive list of local classes can be displayed to the user in one place.

"This is a great tool to reach those who don’t know where to start with exercise, whether they are complete beginners or looking for a new challenge.”