The bespoke way to stay in shape

It has got to that point in the summer where our long-ignored Bikini Fitness Plan needs to be wrenched off the bottom of the to-do list and worked on. But while we'd all ideally like to drop a jean size in time for a trip to the beach, no one wants to waste money on a gym membership we might only use for two months, and committing to 10 yoga classes when we might only want to try the first session seems futile.

FUNKACISE
What? Fun, fresh, fierce dance fitness, done to the song words rather than a routine chucked over any old music.
With who? Scott Whitley, an excitable 28-year-old fitness instructor who wants us to have fun and feel sexy during an all-over body workout to house and pop music. Whitley did dancefloor aerobics for years before adding his own "funky" feel. "What I teach is different. It's camp, fun, it's my own thing," he insists.
Involves: Finding your inner popstar and using muscles you might not normally move. With dance move names such as The Sexy Britney (shimmying), the Gaga Walk (side steps ending with a hard elbow strike - "remember, guys, we are the Lady Gagas of Elephant & Castle") - the Pump it Up March (marching with arm movements), Catwalk (fast-paced walk with a wiggle), the Sunrise (a leg pivot and arm lift) and the Sexy Pony (like a hop with a difference), you should be prepared for anything.
Difficulty rating: Not hard or technical if you have previous aerobics or dance experience but works up a good sweat and you'll be laughing all the way home. Make sure you listen carefully as instructions come hard and fast.
Details: Classes daily (except Fridays) in south east London
(£5/60 mins, funkacise.webs.com).

WHAT ELSE TO TRY:
Belly dancing: Good for toning up and confidence boosting. Classes for any level with Melissa on Mondays and Wednesdays (£15/class, LA Fitness, 4-12 Regent Street, SW1).
Outdoor fitness training: Exercise with a team at whichever level you like, with weekly themes including boxing and cardio. Classes daily at locations including Battersea Park and Wimbledon (first class £1).
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: like a combination of martial art and combat sport which improves strength, core flexibility and stamina. Classes most days (£12/class, Urban Kings Gym, 4 Bravingtons Walk, N1).