A futuristic cycling training gym has been unveiled at Lee Valley Velopark, so heavy smoker and reporter Barnaby Davis was put through his paces.

The VeloStudio, hidden in the recesses of the velodrome in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, is equipped with the latest hi-tech monitoring for advanced cyclists wanting to perfect their pedal technique or people simply wanting to escape the mundanity of gym cycling.

The studio, which opened on Tuesday (September 15) includes Sufferfest training sessions which are designed to put you right in the heart of the world’s greatest races like the Tour de France through TV screens and a punishing sound system.

The 30-minute to an hour long programmes give even the avid gym avoider an incentive to push themselves, as a narrative is created for your character a novice cyclist looking to impress other professional riders in international competitions.

The studio has a “mood changing, immersive LED light and sound show” which makes you feel a bit like you are cycling through Manchester nightclub The Hacienda in its hey-day.

The bizarre music choices range from apocalyptic techno to gypsy punk in places all the time being bombarded by inspirational messages like “C’mon that all you got?” and “time to get ugly round this corner”.

A less competitive session is offered in the Matrix MyRide training where a virtual instructor can talk you through the beautiful but still brutal Austrian hill climbs.

All in all it is an intense workout which puts you in perfect mood to try and break Bradley Wiggins record on the fast track circuit upstairs or to swerve between the cars and HGV’s of High Road, Leyton on the way home.

Brian Daley, director of venues for Lee Valley Leisure Trust called the VeloStudio a “terrific addition” to the Lee Valley VeloPark.

He said: “VeloStudio offers the ultimate in two-wheeled indoor fitness and training and together with great visual, sound and lighting systems, participants are given a unique, all-round pedalling workout.

“We have chosen leading products in this field, and working with Wattbike and Matrix, we are able to provide a wide choice of activities to suit just about anyone, from complete beginners to elite athletes and further enhancing our cycling offer.”