Now officially in the 250 club! I've been waiting for this day for a long time, especially because…read moreI lost one of my 100 club sock. PB was great to adapt to Covid, from reducing class size early on to quickly offering livestream classes. They initially offered livestream class through Facebook, and then set up its own website for recorded sessions. I've enjoyed the flexibility with livestream, especially I could take classes with instructors who I don't normally get a chance to!
While I have been comfortable taking livestream sessions since Covid, it's only because I had plenty of in-studio experience, especially with modifications. I'd recommend anyone who is comfortable with going to studio take it in-person as opposed to virtual.
The only thing is I wish the livestream is offered through Zoom. I talked to the instructors and inquired about Zoom as an option. However, because the class is so music driven, it's hard to get the correct microphone feedback over Zoom.
The Boston studio is also located on the second floor of a building, slightly more tucked away than the Harvard Square location. It has two individual bathrooms and one changing room. Plenty of locker space and equipment for all. Before the pandemic, I've been here a bunch of times since you can take classes either at the harvard location or here. Now, you can take classes from any of the three locations: Brookline, Boston, or Harvard Square.
Different instructors have different styles, and it will take you some time to find what's best for you. Angela is definitely popular here. I took two classes with Fiona, and loved her! I love Amanda, and am glad she is here temporarily for this summer! If you are brand new to barre, it will take you at least a week or so to fully adapt to its rhythms. The good news is they offer free Foundations class for new members, or you can always check out the intro class on YouTube to get a better idea on what to expect.
The membership is not cheap, but comparable to other professionally owned gym or barre studios. They have membership sale from time to time (e.g., new membership for $99 for 3 months or 20% off of lifestyle membership), so definitely keep an eye on its marketing emails or social media and take advantage of that. I'd also recommend check with your work or insurance to see if you can get any partial reimbursement on fitness membership.
Some other tips:
1. There is a 4-hour cancellation window, after that you will have to pay a late cancellation fee. If you are unsure of your schedule, you can always sign up at the last minute (if there is still room for the class). Also, be sure you are early or on time. Typically, you may be turned away if you are more than 5 - 7 minutes late for class, for safety reasons.
2. While some poses are hard, don't be afraid to modify them. Personally, I find myself better off without the weights for the weight section from time to time just to get the form right. Form over heavy lifting, as always.
3. Wear long pants! For top, I see a variety of sports bras or tank tops. While shorts are allowed, it is not recommended. Better with capri or 7/8 or full pants. Also, you can wear regular socks, but may find plank or other positions challenging. Most people have Pure Barre sticky socks (which I think is now $18 a pair). You can buy sticky socks on Amazon for a cheaper price.