Madonna reveals plans for new album at Toronto fitness club launch

TORONTO – Madonna fans can expect to hear some new tunes in the future from the music icon with plans for a new album — but she’s keeping a tight lid on the details.

“Yes, plans are in the works already. Don’t ask me with who, it’s a secret, top secret,” Madonna said coyly in a red carpet interview Tuesday night at Hard Candy Fitness club in Toronto.

In the meantime, fitness was top of mind for the pop superstar who paid a visit north of the border for the official launch of her luxury fitness brand in Canada. The Hard Candy Fitness Toronto club opened for business in October, joining international locations in Berlin, Rome, Sydney, Santiago, Mexico City, Moscow and St. Petersburg.

In addition to the large-scale images of the Material Girl emblazoned on the walls throughout the facility, Madonna also has a hand in shaping the fitness routines with classes based on her daily workouts.

Madonna said dance has always been a big part of her shows and she can’t imagine not having movement, dance and fitness being part of her work — a philosophy she’s applied to her burgeoning fitness brand.

“I have fun working out and I don’t think working out should be boring. And I think dance is an important part of a workout,” said Madonna, looking elegant in a sleek black blazer and skirt designed by famed Canadian duo DSquared2, accessorized with black and gold gloves.

“I used to run when I stopped dancing. I used to run and I thought it was so boring. So dance is fun because you can play music, you can move your body in every direction.”

A select few got to see Madonna in action as she led the cardio-based Addicted to Sweat class, which combines elements of high-impact aerobics with choreography. The session was closed to the media, but among the participants were 30 people who earned the chance to dance alongside the pop diva following several auditions.

“Just to have a window into that world, it’s a once in a lifetime incredible opportunity. It’s like being in a dream,” said class participant Blair Boudreau prior to taking part in the session.

Nicole Winhoffer, Madonna’s personal trainer, said the star averages between 1 1/2 and two hours for workouts six days a week, a rigorous routine that involves fully body conditioning with multiple repetitions, ab and arm work and use of jump rope or basketballs.

“She’s actually really consistent, really easy. She gives such good direction. There’s no guessing. I know what she’s going to like, what she’s not going to like. She gives us very clear feedback and we move very fast. It’s so amazing to work with her.”

So are there any Canadian artists on Madonna’s workout playlist? When asked, she responded: “Drake.”

And would she like to collaborate with the homegrown hip-hop star in the future?

“If he’ll have me,” Madonna replied.

Follow @lauren_larose on Twitter.

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Online:

www.hardcandyfitness.com