PSA: You do need the grip Pilates socks, and you should either buy a pair in advance or you can buy…read moreone of the many options of Pure Barre socks they have in the front of the studio. Wear leggings because sometimes you'll be on your knees. It gets hot in there, and I always appreciate it when they turn the fan on.
I took the free foundations class at Pure Barre in Brentwood and was immediately hooked, so I signed up for the unlimited membership for $199/month and I told myself I'd go at least 5 days a week to make it worthwhile, and so far I've been able to keep that promise to myself!
Pure Barre has four different class formats, Classic for low impact & high intensity barre, Empower for cardio-centric strength training, Define for weight-based strength training, and Align for flexibility and balance. I'd say they're all difficult yet doable, but Align is the easiest of the four. The workouts often blur the line between strength training and stretching in the best way.
My two favorite instructors so far are Claudia and Keani, but honestly they're all great, well trained, and going to give you a killer workout. It is so impressive how they lead the workouts, doing the exercises with you to show you the proper form while also talking you through it, and observing the class enough to let you know if you need to make any adjustments to your form to avoid potential injuries.
The classes are between 45-50 minutes, but you'll need to allot additional time to get your equipment before class and wipe it down and put it away at the end, as well as changing out into your regular clothes. If you're participating in the challenges, you'll also need a few minutes after class to get your stars and stamps. Don't be late because they won't let you come into the class if you arrive more than five minutes past the start time.
I love when they do themed workout days, such as Beyoncé! You can have fun with it and dress up for the class, and they play music that aligns with the theme.
For the Brentwood location, it's slightly confusing to find the first time because of the construction, but it's worth it, and after that you'll always know where you're going. Park in their free underground structure (good news, they usually have a security guard) via the alley in the back, then take the stairs up from the garage, make a right, then take those stairs to the top floor, turn right again, and you'll see the sign pointing to Pure Barre.
You'll shake, and they push you harder than you can push yourself, but since it's just for short amounts of time you can do it! After just a few weeks, I definitely noticed more definition and strengths, especially in my glutes and abs.