Irish health club chain West Wood Club is launching a new outdoor exercise concept at its clubs.

CEO Alan Leach said the spaces "will include big screens, lighting and stages – and have been made possible as many of the group's six health clubs are big enough to add outdoor studios up to 10,000sq ft in size".

The company has invested €300,000 in the new group exercise brand – Outfit – which is set to launch on 7 June.

"We're looking forward to launching our new group fitness studio brand," said Leach, who was elected chair of the board of IHRSA on 30 March. He assumes this position on 30 June.

The new Outfit studios will allow classes will take place in purpose-built, open-air – but covered – exercise areas.

The move comes as Leach believes there will be "huge demand" for group fitness classes, once COVID-19 restrictions are eased.

The Outfit studios will be able to host a wide range of classes, from cycling, yoga and pilates to HIIT.

When gyms reopen, four of the six West Wood Clubs – in Leopardstown, Westmanstown, Sandymount and Clontarf Rd – will offer the outdoor studios.

Irish health clubs and gyms can reopen their doors on 7 June, but only for individual training – indoor fitness classes will not be permitted. There is no date confirmed yet for when live indoor fitness classes can restart.