Ambiance: 5/5 Customer Service: 5/5 Friendliness: 5/5 New to the area? Moved during COVID-19 and don't have any friends? Consider Pure Barre. I just tried the free introduction class on a Saturday since I was trying to figure out what fitness/gym center I should sign-up for. I knew nothing about Pure Barre coming in, but the folks there are quite responsive via text. Upon walking in, I was greeted by the instructor who was at the front desk, and she had informed me that I was the only one who had signed up for that class time, so I basically had a one-one session with the instructor. The environment was very clean and the ambiance felt bright. The instructor was very lively and fun to be around. She had emphasized that it was a welcoming environment and even informed me of a military discount since she recognized I was in the army. She had noted that the community is very friendly, and it is a great environment to be in if you just moved to the place. During the class, she was very professional and guided me through all of the movements. I would say that the Pure Barre class reminds me of a mix of Pilates and Ballet. It definitely did make my muscles sore during the workout, but I thought this was a little slower place than what I was looking for, and I didn't feel sore the next day. If it were my style of exercising/what I was looking for (an exercise that will help me train for the ACFT and learn how to incorporate heavy weights into my routine), I would have definitely signed up. At the time I had tried the free class, there was a promotion of the first 3 months being $99 each month (which is a steal!) since their normal prices are usually around $199, so it is a great way to start Pure Barre and see whether or not you like it. In addition, they had informed me that the capacity is currently at 10 people (due to COVID-19). People on average comes in 3-4 times/week but others come in 1-2 times/week as an addition to another workout. So, I'd say: give this a try! You never know if you'd like it or not. read more

I have been going to Pure Barre Bethesda for over a year now and have absolutely loved it! I am seeing amazing results going in two times a week. (I'm more fit and toned, have way more strength than a year ago, I'm more flexible, and got rid of my back pain!!) The instructors are so helpful, friendly, encouraging, inspiring and always want you to have the best time, and to do your best with the utmost kindness and care. On top of the incredible people who work here, all the people who go here are so nice, and it feels like a small, supportive community everytime. Absolutely love this place and highly highly highly recommend it to anyone who wants to get in shape while having fun in a super supportive environment! read more

I came here on a Wednesday night through Class Pass. The class was with Sarah Snyder. The studio is located in a small shopping center on Hampden Lane. The studio itself is not that big, there is a small area with open several cubbies for your belongings and one bench for you to change into your socks. You are required to wear sticky socks, Pure Barre sells their own brand of them for about $12. I had done Pure Barre years ago at a different studio, but I had a negative experience and never went back. This studio has completely changed my attitude towards Pure Barre :) The front desk helped me sign in and the instructor introduced herself to me. I appreciated how Sarah took a few minutes before the class started to walk me through how to do the basic move, a tuck. The workout consists of tiny movements aimed at working your core. There are many moves that target the rest of your body as well (booty, arms, legs), but your core is engaged throughout the majority of the workout. Once the class started, Sarah was great with guiding everyone through each part of the workout. She would walk over and help correct everyone's form. She never pushed me too hard, which I always appreciate from a studio. She did help me push myself, but not to the point where I was about to injure myself in the process. I don't enjoy bootcamp, drill instructor like classes. If you want a tough workout with lots of encouragement I would recommend this class. The studio and the staff here are great, I definitely plan on adding this as a regular part of my workout. The staff make a huge effort to be friendly and personable, they even sent me a postcard after my initial class to congratulate me on my first class! read more

Pure Barre Bethesda - Cubbies - Barre Classes Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

See all

I was less than one minutes late due to traffic and the instructor looked at my right through the door and ignored me. Looked down at my phone and it was one minute after 10 am. I drove 25 minutes for this class and they still charged me. Insensitive money hungry fitness studio read more

The instructors are friendly and helpful. I switch between coming to this location and the one in Arlington. The studios are equally as clean and instructors equally as great! The music is on point and the instructors are good about offering hands-on corrections for posture and verbal modifications if needed. Even when I find myself modifying, the instructors are so encouraging. I never feel judged, and that's why I go back! {Parking}: street metered parking if you can find a spot, or the parking lot right in front of the studio is $5 for an hour. read more

I was impressed by how genuinely friendly and hands-on the instructors are. This is the only Pure Barre studio I've been to so I don't have much to compare with but it's impeccably clean and organized. Classes always start on time and hands down one of the best work-out playlists I've heard throughout. It was perfectly catered for each exercise whether it was a warm-up, high intensity, etc. Now, I am as far from an athletic person as it gets. If you're like me, you're gonna love this! First, the instructors are awesome and will help you throughout the class. The next day you feel a different kind of sore, not the painful-I'm-never-gonna-walk-again, kind of sore, it's more like the I wanna do that again, kinda sore. Also, the bathroom has everything a girl needs pre and post workout. Makeup remover, dry shampoo, tampons. Ya name it! Go ahead and enjoy a free first week when you sign up!!!! read more

Please note, these reviews and 5 star ratings are all before the latest management/owner take over. Unfortunate, disappointing and unnecessary changes have been implemented to a formerly professionally managed studio, upon takeover by a new mgr/owner as of August 2021 (list below). One of the best long time teachers left, many long time clients have left. Things that haven't changed are the beyond amazing teachers and clients! Some of who warned me, so trying to pass on the favor. Buyer beware...Do not expect the former customer service, professionalism or Pure Barre experience a client used to receive from the previous managers/owners. Current owner/manager isn't aligned with or honors certain aspects of the former PB Bethesda managment or corporate brand. Examples of changes: unlimited 1 yr contract rewritten-can only sign up for 15 classes at a time, only 1 freeze allowed, no longer includes bringing 2 new clients per mo. etc., parking no longer validated as it was, classes cancelled within an hour before class (but late fee charged if clients don't cancel 4 hours prior), livestream classes cancelled, schedule not posted until a few days before next month, schedule never the same month to month, studio policies no longer emailed, classes waitlisted evenings and weekends (need to sign up weeks in advance), wipes no longer provided to clean equipment, clients have cleaned toilets, reduced rate/intro pkg for new clients replaced with one free foundations class, mistakes made with contract/class pkgs, blocks former clients from social media after cancelling client membership contract, former clients considered trespassing if no membership, 100, 500, 1000 etc. milestones not acknowledged in real time when achieved, PB challenge rewards earned not provided. read more

Pure Barre is my JAM. Allow me to start by saying I am not an athletic person, lol. I also have a hard time doing extended periods of cardio or anything crazy with weights due to back issues. I found this studio through ClassPass and liked it so much that I cancelled ClassPass and signed up with the studio instead. I waited to sign up for the 12-month package on Black Friday and got a super deal as it is quite expensive otherwise. The instructors are super, they know pretty much everyone's name when you come to class. The barre technique is unusual but they will adjust your posture in class and go over the moves with you before your first class. It took me a month or two to really start understanding how I needed to be moving and standing correctly. Everyone looks like a dork for the first few times and there is truly no judgement. After coming here for two years they still adjust me sometimes.Music-wise it's fast paced but you're using small movements with your body during the class so it's a nice balance. It's helped sculpt my muscles and keeps them looking lean. The very small movements are weirdly effective. I go about two times a week and it's exercise that I actually enjoy. Later classes are much less packed! I always bring a water bottle and you have to wear socks inside (you can buy nice ones with those grips for cheap on Amazon). I really enjoy coming here! read more

I joined here in December 2021 and have thoroughly enjoyed both the classes and the people! Going to PB Bethesda is often the highlight of my day and I have met several wonderful people and gained some friends as well. They validate parking for unlimited members which is great if you take classes multiple times a week (otherwise it's $5 to park in the lot, street parking is available for $2.70, and the studio is close to the metro if you don't want to drive). Classes are offered at convenient times and the ability to book ahead on the app makes planning my classes every month very easy. I am glad I joined this studio and look forward to reaching my goals! read more

Let me start out this review by saying that I am a huge purebarre fan and really enjoy this workout method. I decided to check out this studio when visiting family in Bethesda, and let me just say that I was not at all impressed by this particular studio. I walked in and mentioned that I was a new client and the girl at the desk gave me a clipboard of information to fill out - which is totally standard. When I gave it back to her I was surprised when she didn't ask if I had done barre before, nor did she offer a tour of the studio. I was immediately turned off but how unfriendly and unhelpful she was. The class itself was fine. The instructor, Dixie, was fine but literally did not correct anyone's posture, nor did she bother to introduce herself or ask my name. Also why in the world do they have a single bathroom for men? Why not make them unisex, considering men are not frequent customers...? The validated parking is probably the best thing this studio has going for it. Overall, I definitely wouldn't make a point to go to this studio the next time I am in town (which is unfortunate, because I visit for a weekend every couple months and would love to get a workout in!). read more

Love it here! Parking: Easy as can be- they validate for the lot in front of the store. There is also on street metered parking. Facilities: Some shopping as you enter. Cute lighting and friendly front desk staff. Cubbies to store your items during class. Two bathrooms that are well kept. Studio space is always clean. Equipment is clean and kept tidy. Staff: The staff is here is wonderful! They clearly believe in the power of Pure Barre and its hard not to be motivated by their good attitude and high energy. Also, everyone from the barre-tenders (front desk- witty right?) to the teachers take the time to learn your name. This is so helpful for personal corrections on technique. I find each instructor to be so terrific, but my first class was with Naomi and I'll always appreciate the time she took after class to help me with the hard to get techniques. They truly seem to care about each individuals progress which makes it motivating to come back. Class: The 55 minutes fly by. This is coming from someone who would never say that about any hour long workout before I found Pure Barre. Every class runs through the same order of activities, but each class mixes it up by doing different exercises to keep things fresh. Music is always playing that goes along to the pulse of the current exercise. Cost: It is a little pricey, but for the amazing results, small class sizes, and individual corrections given it is well worth it. Of all the things to spend money on, shouldn't your health be the first? Scheduling: Couldn't be easier- you can do it in store, over the phone, online, or there is an app that syncs with your calendar. They offer many class times that can fit with any schedule. Overall- a must attend! read more

I've been going to Pure Barre Bethesda for about a month now. I just got home from my 6th class. I've taken classes with 5 instructors and each of them teaches differently. Some are easier, some make me hate myself for going to class...it is a nice mix. About the studio: Parking is super easy. They validate and there are always places to park. There is also street marking on the meter. The studio is always very clean, nicely lit, etc. They have a cubby for your shoes and coats. A receptionist is always at the front and can easily view the door and cubby for safety. One of the nicest things about the studio is that all of the receptionists and at least half of the instructors know my name and knew it from week 2. I can't express how much that means to me. I'm currently relocating yoga studios, with one reason being that none of the teachers have made an effort to learn my name in over a year...Pure Barre knew my name after 3 classes. This might not seem like a big deal to some people, but I really appreciate the genuine effort to learn my name. As for the classes: The classes follow the same order of warm-up, arms, legs, seat (behind), abs, a little more seat and back, then a cool-down. There is stretching in-between each section. Although the order is the same and many moves are the same, you do get variation for the seat and legs and sometimes abs that is different from the last class you took. That helps keep it challenging and interesting. I still know I am not doing some moves correctly, but I ask questions after every class to learn and try each time to make sure I shake and push myself. In class, I don't think about anything else in my life. It's a great mental focus on the physical demand of class. Bottom line-if you don't feel yourself shaking, you're definitely not doing it right! One thing you might notice is that all of the classes are a level one type class. I heard an instructor say that they are only doing the level one for now because they just opened. I suspect that in the future, they will offer a more advanced class. As always, if you need more of a challenge, then you have to make one. Squeeze harder, lift higher, etc. Each class is what you make of it. What helped me understand the moves that go on during the fast-paced was attending a free workshop with co-owner Mary Beth. She went through most of the moves to explain what to do in classes. It was really helpful. She took questions, made the workshop interactive, and demonstrated many of the moves I did not understand during class. My reason for going to Pure Barre is to tone and strengthen. There isn't much talk at the studio of strengthening, just toning and slimming. That's where my strong yoga practice fills in that desire to become strong, not just thin. Yoga and Pure Barre are a great combination for getting healthy, fit, slim, toned, strong, and happy. If you want to try Pure Barre, you should. It's expensive, but I really do enjoy it. Check out the Pure Barre website for their technique tip of the week to get a better understanding of some of the moves. read more

I really enjoy my workouts here, more so than B. Fit in DC. I'm not much into exercise, but I knew I needed to tone up for the summer, especially after trying all of these great DC-area restaurants approved by Yelp. You will sweat, but not to the extent if you were doing high-impact cardio, which I like. Barre makes me feel graceful, which is not something I typically feel during exercise. Though I do have years of previous dance experience, you really need to know nothing about ballet to have a good workout here and to enjoy your experience. Just make sure to buy some sticky socks--you will need them, especially with the carpet in the studio, or you will slide all over the place. You don't necessarily need to buy the ones that they sell at Pure Barre--I found some cheaper ones on Amazon. I purchased the $100 new student unlimited classes for a month deal (though now there's some LivingSocial deal for 2 weeks for $35...too bad I didn't wait and just get that). I did 3-4 classes a week for two weeks and was really starting to notice changes in my body. Unfortunately, I recently sustained an injury to my foot/ankle (not related to Barre). The staff was very nice and understanding to my situation, and are going to let me resume the rest of my remaining two weeks once I'm all healed. Apparently, they don't typically do this, so I was very grateful that they were understanding. I can't wait to go back once I can walk again. The free parking validation is awesome. Just hand your card to the girl at the desk once you arrive and check in. The only thing that I wish could be improved upon is the layout. The waiting area is tiny. I went to a 5:30 class on a Friday, and quite a few people (5-7) had just come from work and were still in their work clothes. Our class had to start late because there are only two bathrooms, and both are inside the actual studio, so the women who had to change into their workout gear had to wait until the previous class was done before they could change. I wish they would've just changed at work so it didn't hold the rest of us up since I had plans immediately after class was supposed to end around 6:25. Other than that, I really wish that I could afford to continue to come here after my month is up. read more

I was introduced to Pure Barre by a friend while I was visiting Atlanta and was excited to see there was a studio close to home. My first class with Dixie was amazing! I'm by no means athletic, in shape, or flexible, but Dixie made me feel right at home in the studio and was very supportive in correcting me to makes sure I had correct form. After all, what's the point of a work out without proper form?! I love how the instructors are very careful to move the mic away when correcting your form. You never feel like you're being put on the spot (... I'm looking at you, Bikram Yoga) and the instructors are actually paying attention to everyone in class. I've decided to take advantage of the new client special and have had classes with Alix so far. Let me say: She's wonderful! True to Pure Barre style, she keeps the class moving at a steady pace Parking is a breeze. I've had no trouble on week days or weekends. Perk: Parking is included in the monthly membership. All of the staff has been very helpful and friendly. Most of all, I genuinely look forward to class despite how much my body may hurt the day after, I keep coming back and am motivated to continue to return. The instructors definitely make you feel like you're getting your money's worth. Plus, who doesn't love working out in a judgement free and positive environment? We're all just trying to work on our bodies. read more

I started going to Pure Barre a little over a year ago when I was looking for a workout routine near my office that was similar to yoga or Pilates. I've never enjoyed working out and have not been able to commit myself to a fitness routine before Pure Barre. The instructors and staff at the studio do such a great job of making new members feel welcome, and you begin to feel a part of the Barre community. I especially appreciate how each instructor familiarizes themselves with your abilities and knows where to push you and where to make adjustments. The format of the class is comfortably methodic, with individual exercises varying just enough each class to keep your body from getting complacent. The music is fun and upbeat and the 50 minute classes fly by before you know it! In terms of results, they vary. I'm a small person so the workout isn't necessarily a calorie burner for me. I have, however, noticed great results in my muscle tone, waistline, energy levels, and overall core strength. I'd highly recommend Pure Barre for the uncoordinated, unathletic people like me that get intimidated by something like an Orange Theory but still want to have their butts kicked (in a less sweaty way!). I only have two complaints- first, the lack of changing rooms can be frustrating sometimes when you are waiting in line to change in the bathroom. Second, because the studios are individually franchised, my membership doesn't count at other locations. The Bethesda location is right by my office, but sometimes I wish I could go to the DC location that is closer to my home on the weekends/in the mornings. Otherwise I'd highly recommend! read more

Feelin the friendly staff and my body in progress. Flat foot still there tho.

UPDATE 4/17/14: They did send me a post card thanking me for coming (all handwritten to me) so I will give them props for that personal touch. But not enough for another star to be added. --- I went to my first barre class ever (in general, not just at Pure Barre) this past Sunday and had no idea what to expect. All I have heard is that it can give you a great workout (and hopefully body) and that it was a mix of Pilates, ballet, and yoga. I personally hated the class just 3 minutes in and probably won't go back. I will give one more star because of the instructor. She was very sweet and helpful (I won't lie - her bod was AWESOME) and I am pretty sure this is the style of all of the classes, not just hers. You're wondering why... Well, it was like taking a class with Richard Simmons in short. It was so high energy that I was cringing. Look - I am all for high energy during work outs to get motivated but this was another level. It was too much "AND UP! AND UP! JUST LIKE THAT!" for me. I actually wanted to walk out of the class just 3 minutes in since I knew I already hated it. Another thing that struck me as odd is that we would do certain movements that burn, followed by a stretch. But as soon as she told us to stretch a certain way, we would move on to another movement in less than two seconds. How is that stretching anything?! It was a typical women's group fitness class but on steroids in terms of the high energy and this just isn't the type of class for me. I heard not all barre classes are like this (like at Equinox) so maybe I'll try it again elsewhere... read more

Absolutely love the class. Teacher was wonderful. Patience with me on my first class. Great cueing. Studio clean and great. Can't wait to go tomorrow. read more

Really enjoyed class with Kara this morning! I've been to several barre classes at other locations and this class was more intense but also still super easy for a newbie to follow along! read more

I like these workouts. They are tough, but effective. I noticed a difference within 3 workouts. The sessions are not monotonous; they change up the routine, but the tucking and seat form doesn't change. This is good, so that you're not just working the same parts over and over again. All muscles are utilized if you keep coming back! I try and focus on the right posture (tuck, back posture) to maximize my workout. I know I'll eventually get it. It's just like any new form of dance, they have their own set of rules. I also like the music. It's usually an upbeat combination of dance, synth-pop, club type music. It's the exact same music that I listen to when I workout solo. To those people who wrote about the stretching.....I never thought the stretching was too short, but I always stretch before a workout. So if that's a concern, maybe arrive 10 minutes before and start stretching. To the other person who complained about the bathrooms. Legally, a facility has to have separate bathrooms for men and women. This was adopted in the late 1800s and has only recently been challenged due to gender neutral trans people coming into the spectrum. It has nothing to do with Pure Barre and is simply a formal legality. I have been to crowded classes and used the men's bathroom, as did other women. It doesn't matter. People seem to do it if it's crowded. And none of the men cared because there weren't any in that class. Nor were there any lawyers policing the bathrooms....lol read more

I'm loving Barre so far and the gals at PBBethesda are so nice and helpful!!! I can't wait to take more classes here!

Amazing workout, but the best part is the staff. Every single person is cheerful, helpful, and makes an effort to learn your name and make you feel at home. I've only been going for a couple of weeks, but I'm already invested and feel like a part of the group! Highly recommend. There are women of all ages in the class. read more

Wow - a few days later and I'm still feeling the burn! I've taken several classes here and all the instructors are great but Mary Beth's class is amazing! As an Equinox member I'm sometimes lulled into a false sense of fitness security with their barre classes, which while great, don't target specific muscles as effectively as the isometric exercises at Pure Barre. I love the boutique fitness vibe here and everyone from the instructors to fellow clients are very friendly. If I didn't live in Georgetown I would at Pure Barre Bethesda everyday. If you are nearby sign up for a class ASAP, your abs [and glutes and arms and thighs and boyfriend/husband] will thank you later. Highly recommended! read more

I was so excited when I entered the studio yesterday and they greeted me by name and it was only my second time there!! Great core/total body workout. Very clean studio! read more

I love this studio! I had not worked out for years and was super nervous to get back into it - and now I am on an unlimited class plan and truly look forward to going to Pure Barre every day! From the minute I walked into the studio my first time, the front desk and instructors have been so friendly and helpful, but never overbearing or judgmental! It is definitely a little more low key in terms of the studio itself, which I really appreciate in contrast to some of the more stuffy work out environments in the DC area! For instructors - Alex is amazing and pushes you to your limit! Bri really knows the technique and I always leave feeling better than when I walked in. Michelle is so friendly and very welcoming to new clients. Dixie is inspiring and always makes me want to perfect my technique. As for the front desk, thank you Katie for always greeting everyone with a smile and helping in any way you can. All in all, if you are looking for a challenge in a really positive environment, I highly recommend Pure Barre Bethesda!! read more

Can't say enough about the studio, teachers and classes. But they recently went above and beyond by cancelling a class for me without penalty when i couldn't make it at the last minute, without me even asking. read more

Thays Lizaso is such a great instructor! She makes me feel motivated. I love her sayings, "You're stronger than you think" and "squeeze that ball like you're gonna pop it." She is always keeping an eye on my form, which I constantly forget about. She has a great music playlist to keep me pumped. Great addition to the Pure Barre Bethesda team. Best part of my day! read more

I love going to Pure Barre bethesda! I have never been someone who works out a lot, and I have never been one to be in shape. I started going here with my classpass package and I instantly fell in love and decided to just do pure barre full time! I was intimidated at first since it is definitely challenging, but once I went to a few classes I got the hang of it and felt like a pro! Dixie and Michelle are awesome! I always try and go to their classes. read more

This is an amazing studio. I love the instructor Alix, she is very sweet and thorough. My legs were shaking the whole time, very exhausting work out today. I feel great! read more

Highly recommend! The workout is fantastic, the staff are very friendly and helpful and the studio is always extremely clean. So happy I found Pure Barre Bethesda and have made it the staple to my exercise routine. I'm only a month in, and I'm already so much stronger from when I started. The results are real! read more

Great teachers! They make the class fun. Highly recommend anyone thinking about taking a class do so!

They always validated my parking until yesterday. They say they will only validate for auto-renew clients and not for those of us who pay for packages as we go and don't like to have our credit cards on file. The parking was really convenient and paying another $5.00 per visit in Bethesda is just really kind of annoying, especially since I'm now a second class Barre client. read more

I attended several classes at Pure Barre Bethesda with a friend in November. I had had back surgery in June. I thought all was fine with my back so I bought a 10 pack of classes. The next class I took I hurt my back and could not take this class again. I was in pain for several weeks. I called the studio in December to ask if I could transfer my 10 pack of classes to a friend. I had to call several times, but the answer was no, all I could do was spend the money on merchandise. I asked to speak with the owner but she never called me. I am very disappointed. I understand that I paid for the classes but I was not physically able to continue and had found a friend who would happily buy the classes from me. The classes and teachers themselves were great. I would just recommend making sure you are in good health before you take this class. It would have been nice to receive a call from the owner herself so I could better explain my situation. read more

Overall this is a good studio - it's easy to get into any class time you want and it's an effective workout. However, I recently stopped going to this location for a couple of reasons (I now go to PB Dupont). My favorite teacher recently left: she quickly knew my name, was always friendly and put a lot of effort into switching up her classes with great music etc. I've found that even after taking other instructors classes many, many times some have still put zero effort into learning my name or applying corrections to me in class.... which I have to say I found discouraging. They also no longer validate parking which is a $5 increase to every visit (unless you have the unlimited package). Certainly still a good workout but for me Dupont is a better choice! read more

Very encouraging and true to pure barre, I love the technique they've perfected and the moves

Great workout, friendly staff, wonderful teachers. Really feel this workout every time.

I've been a barre enthusiast for years and have practiced barre across studios for a number of years (primarily due to my work travel schedule that requires me to be out of DC 4 days / week. I really have enjoyed the Bethesda studio over other barre and Pure Barre studios. In particular, I find that the instructors really focus on getting to know the students and helping them to correct their form. I am pregnant - and have also really appreciated how much time they have spent with me in modifying my poses so that I can still get a great work out. I have mostly gone to the classes with Naomi, Sarah, and Alix. All 3 focus on form and play great music, etc. One particular compliment to Naomi -- I really appreciate the time she spends in each class with each person adjusting positions and has also spent the most time with me as I learn the pregnancy adjustments. Love this studio! read more

Got a deal for a few classes and have been here four times with four different teachers. Maybe I'm just slow, but the classes seem confusing and chaotic. It's really hard to follow along several reasons. First, the teacher moves around the room but wears a microphone so it can be hard to tell where she actually is to copy what she's doing. Plus you're not always facing her. It's the most confusing when you're facing the back wall and she's facing the front wall. You look over your shoulder at what she's doing but if everyone on the front wall is doing something with one leg, you might be tempted to mirror it, but that would mean you're using the wrong leg. They explain the moves, but very quickly. This may be fine for some people, but it takes me a a few seconds to understand the alignments they are blurting out. Lastly, when you're not sure what to do and look at what everyone else is doing, everyone else is doing something slightly different from one another! Feet pointed in different directions, knees bent or straight, different motions or directions, etc. You don't know what's right and you don't know where the teacher went. My suggestion is to pick someone in the beginning who really seems to know what they're doing. Remember what they're wearing (since you won't always see their face) and copy that person when you're lost. The stretching is useless. The poses are held for literally about 5 seconds each. As soon as you settle in to a pose (or maybe even before that) they're on to the next one. If you take the time to drink from your water bottle, you'll completely miss something. Also the canned motivation such as "You're stronger than you think" gets old really fast. Another thing I found totally bizarre is that they dim and turn off the lights at the end of the class. I would think it's to cool down, but we're still exercising the whole way through. I guess they think that a cool-down means core work lying down? I prefer the barre class at Next Phase, even though they don't have an actual barre. The moves are more "dance-like" and the classes are at a better pace and moves are explained better. Better prices too! read more

Love, love, love Pure Barre!!! Bri's class yesterday was awesome! Double rings are back!!! I do miss Rocky though!!! She was always smiling and happy and a double ring maniac. Great workout, fun, friendly atmosphere. I just wish they would add more times on Saturday and sunday... a brunch class, if you will. Really tones you and you leave feeling great! Try it!! read more

Love this studio and the location is great! Free parking makes it so easy, and shaves time off of my day since I know I won't need to spend 10 minutes looking for parking, unlike other studios in the DC area. Pure Barre workout is amazing and all of the instructors here are great Highly recommend! read more