STARS of a city soap felt the heat at the launch of a new fitness studio.

River City stars Paul-James Corrigan, Gary Lamont, Nalini Chetty and Jordan Young joined locals and business owners at the glamorous launch of Bikram Yoga Southside last night.

The actors put their stamina to the test when they tried out some poses at the Eastwood Avenue studio, which teaches people yoga in 42C heat.

Popular with sporting stars including Andy ­Murray and Lee McCulloch, the fitness craze has been increasing in popularity with locals and celebrities alike.

Owner Linda Ibrahim said she couldn't wait for the high temperature exercise to come to the South Side.

She said: "It's intense and challenging but afterwards you feel so amazing that you can't wait to do it all again.

"I'm so excited to see it growing in Scotland.

"It's such a healing exercise and it's great seeing people overcoming injuries that they thought they would never be able to by doing Bikram yoga.

"We are going to run 18 classes a week, and we're open seven days a week.

"The classes are for people of all abilities, from complete beginners to experts as everyone is able to work to their own level."

The new studio has been refurbished from an 5000sq ft office block and has been spacious changing rooms, practice rooms, a juice and smoothie bar as well as candles and mood lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere.

hannah.rodger@ eveningtimes.co.uk