I liked a couple of the teachers even though most of them barely give form corrections. But the front desk staff and management here are rude, across multiple issues. Total turn off. I've been doing barre for 14 years and pure barre specifically for 8. I live in the neighborhood. But I make the effort to go across town to UES for other pure barre locations. read more

Pure Barre UWS is the go to spot for a fill body workout! The instructors are amazing and you'll leave feeling lifted and toned! A must try!! read more

I've been taking classes at PB UWS for the past 6 years. In fact, I used to trek across town to this studio prior to living the UWS. It's a powerful workout taught by phenomenal instructors. Can't recommend enough! read more

Love taking classes at Pure Barre UWS - Margo and team have done a great job curating a variety of classes and the instructors are great. We also have a very friendly athletic community on the UWS and it's nice to see familiar friendly faces everytime I visit. read more

I took a class here with Meaghan via class pass. I arrived early and was set up with a waiver and purchased a 20$ pair of Barre socks. Yup, 20$ for one pair of socks with stickies at the bottom. I was really surprised at the pricing here given that the a four pack of these socks were 15$ on amazon. I was told they were required so I didn't fuss about it too much. The class itself was amazing and definitely worked muscles that haven't been bothered too much as I'm a runner. Wow, my thighs were so sore afterwards, but felt amazing! It wasn't too intense of a class for a newbie, but it does give you a great workout. Meaghan was so kind, welcoming, and helpful which alleviated a lot of the stress for a new person. Overall, very pleased with my experience. Now that I have the socks, I will be back. read more

Reply: I love how I got a faster message on yelp than when I call your store during business hours. And yes!! Please don't contact me again :) DONT COME HERE! 30 DAY CANCELLATION POLICY!!! I wanted to cancel my membership first week of July before I paid the membership for another month. Nobody picked up the phone. Once I was charged for July, I called again and tried to cancel my membership on July 11th. They said there's a 30 day cancellation fee, and charged me for the month of July. Fine. Then, comes Aug 11th and they charge me again for one last cycle. So in short, they waited to answer my call until I paid for that month then I had to pay for an additional month. Horrific... This is a dying company that is trying to get any last bit of money from their customers. I called and emailed repeatedly, but no one would pick up. Took me to physically go to the location to demand they never charge or speak to me again. I would try any other place--core power yoga and soulcycle are incredible and worth the money. LOVE soulcycle--nearby and super great. Go there! If you absolutely have to go here, I would avoid paying for a membership entirely and just pay class-to-class. You'll end up paying 10x more if you try to cancel your membership. If anyone's had a similar experience, should consider class action lawsuit. Paying double when trying to cancel an expensive membership is inhumane. read more

This is the most horrible customer service experience I have ever had. When I found out I had to move out of NYC at short notice and had a serious health issue, I asked for the manager to cancel my membership immediately and not bill me for the next cycle. She was not receptive to these circumstances, and she refused. As far as I can tell, not canceling me under these circumstances violates the law, but once I told the manager that, she refused to follow up with me personally and instead contacted me with a lawyer. This lawyer tried to intimidate me to remove my Google Review which contained only facts and opinions about my experience here. They also called my emails "antagonistic" and "hysterical," and my emails asking for cancellation were neither. I suspect they will try to intimidate me to take this review down as well. read more

I have been taking classes here a couple times per month for about six months via ClassPass. Overall, I'd highly recommend it. It's a great workout -- good mix of toning and a little cardio. The classes are fast-paced and can be a little tricky to follow along with your first or second time, but the fast pace also means that the hour goes by relatively quickly. I've taken classes with Jennifer, Gracie, Meaghan, Kelsey, Alyssa, and Maureen. All are excellent -- slightly different from one another in terms of exercises, but the classes follow the same structure and you always get a good workout. The instructors are great on working with you to make modifications if you're recovering from an injury (just let them know before class). The front desk staff have always been friendly to me (and they do an amazing job of remembering names!). Re: the complaints about what you're supposed to wear -- just follow the dress code! In my opinion, the biggest con of Pure Barre is that it's very expensive -- right now it's $37 if you buy a single class (the price per class goes down if you buy a package). I go via ClassPass so don't pay nearly that much, so I'd recommend trying that or trying one of their promotional package deals. I know $37/class isn't that much higher than average for the area, but it's still steep. read more

Terrible customer service. The front desk person is a space cadet who is totally unable to answer the most simple questions about which classes tend to be busy. Why is she working a front desk job if she is so u informed. Go to Equinox or SoulCycle for more intelligent and aware customer service read more

I have only had wonderful experiences at this PB location. Everyone is super nice, and every instructor takes the time to get to know your name! I have had adjustments made almost every class, which I love because having the correct form is everything! Classes fill up fast. If you're a few minutes late, sometimes they'll let you in, but don't expect that to always happen. The studio is clean and spacious. Make sure you wear the attire they tell you to wear in the confirmation emails you get- I've noticed that all the bad reviews are due to personal error. It's not that hard to read and be accountable! I just wish I wasn't on a student budget/had more time so that I could take class 4 times a week as recommended, but I still feel a difference at 2x/week! Look for deals and buy a pair of sticky socks :) read more

I've taken a few PB classes via Classpass and then decided to sign up for the newbie month. The reviews here did make me a bit nervous, but I've had absolutely no issues. The staff has been extremely nice. The classes, even when at capacity, don't feel overcrowded. Yes, the classes do fill up fast- but it's NY. The only cons would be that there are no showers and only one bathroom. Other than that it's been great! read more

First time at this studio - showed up the 15 minutes early as they recommend and despite the instructor and receptionist saying hello, it wasn't until 2 minutes after the class was supposed to start that the instructor came over and told me I wouldn't be allowed to join the class because it was a "liability issue" to be wearing shorts. I live a 3 minute walk away and easily could have run and changed in the time I was waiting for class to start, but instead was told that I would be locked out if I left to change by the time the instructor told me I had to leave. The instructor was unapologetic and overly defensive, acting as though it was ridiculous that I had the nerve to show up in shorts. Never got the call I was promised from the manager either to reschedule... I'm sure it's a good workout like other reviews say, but not worth the rudeness and snootiness in my book. read more

I've been using ClassPass for the last month to test out various barre studios in the area and I plan to join a studio full time by the end of spring. Yesterday I booked a Saturday class at this location to try the new Platform format with my friend. I booked the class in advance and was very excited about the prospect of a Saturday morning lady workout date. Today I received an email from ClassPass that PureBarre had cancelled my reservation. No explanation, just a simple shrug of the shoulders via a poorly-worded 100 character email. read more

Terrible place that doesn't welcome new people or help clients. Wouldn't allow me in the class on an icy day when I was 3 minutes late. Don't waste your time here. I was willing to pay full price instead of all the discounted class pass people, and they were rude and unhelpful. read more

I love this studio and all of the amazing staff that work there. Everyone tries to remember your name, and I appreciate that special touch. The workout is as difficult as you make it, and the some instructors really push you once they get to know you and your strengths. read more

Although I was in town for only two days, I made it a priority to get in at least one class at @pb_uwscolave. As a long-time Pure Barre client in ID and WI, I was so relieved to find out about out-of-town pricing for clients like me! I truly could not have had more a positive experience with everything from emailing Margo and chatting on the phone with Theresa ahead of time to taking one of the best classes of my life with Kelsey! Her class was motivating, challenging, and yet so supportive of the different strengths of each client. Kelsey is a phenomenal instructor and human! I would 100% recommend that new and veteran clients alike try out PB NYC - Upper West Side! read more

I haven't taken a class, however I was helped by one of the women at the front desk to purchase a "gift card" of sorts for my best friend's birthday and she was thrilled with her gift! I was really appreciative of the great customer service I received, and my friend who enjoys barre classes was excited to take class here. read more

I didn't have a good experience at this place. They have their policies, I have mine: not to give my business to places that make me feel uncomfortable. Luckily, this is just one of many barre studios in the neighborhood. read more

If you're looking for a barre class that works off of a classic ballet barre, this is NOT it. (Sadly, from what I'm learning, none of them do... please inform me otherwise if I am wrong!) What this IS like is a typical class at Equinox (who owns this franchise), with LOUD music and an instructor that needs to wear a headpiece/mic. There were six or seven people in the class. Do you really need that volume? I suppose it was intended to get our energy up. It didn't. It did, however, detract from the personalized feel that this studio could have had. In addition, the exercises were presented without attention to form or function. They went by WAY too fast, which is the style of these classes. Very easy to injure yourself. And speaking of insuring yourself, if, as a teacher, you are going to ask at the beginning of the class whether or not anyone has any injuries (I do), then for the love of god, TAKE THAT INTO CONSIDERATION while you are teaching! NO attention was made to proper form or function. There wasn't time! You had to observe the teacher and try to copy what she was doing. The next day, I felt pain in both my hips- and not in a good "Oh, I had a good workout" kind of way. And have I mentioned the waiver they have you sign for injuries? If you are looking for a true low impact, attention to detail class that is based off of an ACTUAL ballet barre, I suggest a pilates class on a reformer with someone who understands the technique. (Pilates was invented by a dancer to replicate a ballet bar lying down. There are several in the neighborhood with very reasonable prices- check Groupon.) "Pure" Barre is pure BS in my opinion. Another corporate owned, glossed up, stylized workout regime that does not take the individual into account. The only good thing that I can say about my experience here is that the staff are very nice. Other than that... Next. read more

I agree with the other negative reviews here about the negative attitudes and harsh policies. I had gone for several months to this studio because I like the instructors (Ashley, Margo, and Harrison are great!), but their customer service at the front desk is not good. For $37 a class, you should expect great customer service. It's not consistent - some are more tact or rude than others depending on who is working the shift. Poor customer experiences are a deal breaker for me. There are so many other fitness classes around this area that know how to treat their loyal clientele. read more

If you are black or brown you will be the only person there, but it's a good workout and the instructors are skilled. It can be a bit overwhelming your first time but they'll come around and correct you. read more

I've taken many barre classes at different studios from physique 57 to figure 4 at pure yoga. I was excited to finally try pure barre, having heard so many great things about it. My first class was taught by Will. I really wanted to love this class but he was not very motivating/inspiring. There were a lot of new students in the class and he hardly showed us the moves. Secondly he would count the first set and then be silent for the rest of the exercise, so if you were a new student and missed his brief / non existent demo, then you were at a complete loss and could actually injure yourself. Perhaps some students like this method of teaching or maybe he was having a bad day, but I don't think I got as much out of the class as I could have. I'm hoping the next class I take will be better. read more

I absolutely love this studio. I've been to all of the NYC locations and keep coming back to this one. The staff & teachers are so friendly, the classes kick my butt, and I always look forward to booking my next class. I would recommend taking the bad reviews with a grain of salt, you cant write a bad review if you are aware of the dress code & are informed by the staff that your clothing isn't acceptable PB attire or if you come after the class has already begun. read more

Although geographically more convenient than some of the others, this studio is far from what other NY PB studios are. It's not that they are bad just not really good- like the ones in Union Square, Columbus circle and the UES where you walk out feeling awesome. That combined with their super strict lateness policy (come on its two minutes after and you're already half way through the warm up?) I won't waste my money there again. read more

Enjoyed my first class with Harrison. He was fun and energetic and corrected my posture and form. I totally recommend going

That is the first time I write a review but I just had to say that I am so disappointment from this place. I arrived 4 minutes late- four! Once I arrived, I immediately been told I can not attend class in this point, since they got this far (the class just started and they weren't even at the barre yet!). Beside the harsh policy, I got no empathy for the money I paid for this class and/or no alternatives. This is just not OK to treat your customers who paid well that way. Terrible attitude! read more

I have been to many Pure Barre studios in different cities and this is definitely one of the cleanest and friendliest. The instructors make a huge effort learn each client's name and also take time to explain key movements to first timers prior to class. I would recommend this studio to anyone who wants a great barre workout, especially those new to barre classes! read more

I had Meghan and she was FABULOUS!!!! This was my first barre class, and it was hard but Meghan was very knowledgable, helpful, and motivating!! I def recommend! read more

I have been a Pure Barre fan for about two years now and have been to this studio many times. It is in a convenient location and the studio itself is in a very quiet area of the building that its in. During a recent visit to class, my instructor was enthusiastic and really energetic. She offered modifications when I had questions about the newer exercises and didn't hesitate to help when I needed. I will come back again and take more classes here! read more

I have been coming to Pure Barre Columbus Ave for 4 months and I have to say I love it. The routines are always changing and I can see the changes in my posture and figure. The instructors Meaghan, Kara, Will and Margo (the owner) are so patient, kind and helpful during the classes. I have a bad back and struggle with flare ups but they are always there to offer advice or an adjustment when needed. I am hooked on barre and will continue to be on the lookout for class card specials. I highly recommend this studio to anyone looking for a good, quick and targeted workout. read more

Another great class with Jennifer. Love the variety of exercises from class to class that keeps it interesting. Jennifer is extremely welcoming and always provides very clear verbal instruction, demonstration and corrections. Looking forward to my next class to continue to learn/improve. read more

Really horrific customer service. Their manager, Audrey, turned me away saying that I could not participate in class because I was wearing shorts (lululemon fitness shorts). She would not refund me the class, nor would she add in another class for me to use at a different time. Instead, she hid behind the adhesion contract they make you sign when you first attend, which may or may not state that you're not allowed to wear workout shorts. I wouldn't know since we aren't actually presented with a copy of our signed "contract" (which is a waiver, and FYI aren't enforced by courts anyway). Capris are ok, btw, so I guess there is something about the back of a kneecap that irks these people? Anyway, regardless of how I feel about their bizarre attire requirements, my main issue was how disgusting the manager was. She was cold and calculated, having clearly issued her robotic speech several times before. More importantly, her attitude showed a really poor business sense. I live a few blocks away and have been attending classes daily for years. I generally will frequent flybarre, physique, or figure4 for my uws barre needs, but decided to try purebarre again because of the 6:15 pm class time. From now on, I'll stick to a studio who actually cares about their clients and business. Their policies are arbitrary and meant to unfairly consume their clients' money -- and also are borderline illegal; you can't charge people for a class, deny entry based upon an alleged policy not standard in the industry and potentially undisclosed (or at the minimum inadequately disclosed), and then refuse to give the value of the services paid for. Either give the client her money back or add in another class for that client to use, but don't deny the product for which the client already paid. Really unhappy with my neighbor here in the fitness community. If anyone else was turned away for this reason, feel free to contact me. Cumulatively, if they are hiding behind an alleged fine-print policy and eating clients' $20+ over and over, there may be a class action on the horizon. Oh, and P.S. Purebarre, your "tights only" policy is effectively gender discrimination. read more

This is a great studio, specifically Juhea and Margot are amazing. Juhea sweats it out in every single class, correcting posture, movements, and constant encouragement, she is unbelievable!! I have never seen a fitness instructor work as hard to engage with students as Juhea. She is a total gem. The studio is clean, friendly, and open to new comers. They learn every persons name and greet you as you walk in. No matter how early in the morning Alyssa is always chipper and says, "So nice to see you Sarah!" Classes fill up very quickly, so reserve online. Hint: If you go early to class they are so helpful to new students, so get great tips! read more

Great neighborhood studio! Clean studio, cheery staff, and kick ass workouts! All the staff is very friendly and pushes you to do your best. I've definitely seen great fitness results in only a few weeks of taking classes. read more

I love PB in the upper west side (Columbus Ave). I have taken Will, Meaghan, Margo and Harrison's classes and they are all great ! I like the welcoming staff, the ambiance and the fact that they try to personalize it a little. It is a hard class but I feel good after the class. I can't really afford to be a full time student there so I try to follow the newsletter and their offers and I will try also with class pass hoping they will have some good spots. Great location, great people. read more

Not impressed. Attended Pure Barre for the first time yesterday. The receptionist was friendly and somewhat helpful, but it was all downhill from there. I arrived 15 minutes early. The class started 15 minutes late. The instructions were given rapid fire, were very unclear, and difficult to follow for a Pure Barre beginner, despite my 20+ years dance training. I am aware that the Pure Barre website has a glossary of terms for beginners, but some thought and attention should be given to first timers so that it's clear what we're being asked to do. I did receive a couple of alignment corrections from the instructor, but the reason I wasn't aligned properly was because the instructions were poor. I was lost about 70% of the time. In fact, the entire class seemed fairly lost - I was definitely not alone. The instructor kept telling us "good work," but as I was looking around the room it was clearly not good work - She obviously didn't care that most of us were confused and lost and she just wanted to get through the class. $37 is pretty expensive - Students should be able to expect a lot more attention and care from the staff for that amount of money. Also, the facilities, while clean and nice, were not adequate. One bathroom and one changing stall for 30 students is not enough. They need to install more toilets and changing stalls. Overall I found the entire concept, the strange little micro-flex-moves, the pounding EDM music, and the nonchalant instructor contributed to a fairly bizarre and disappointing experience. Will not be returning. read more

I love Pure Barre and especially this new location. Margo, the owner, is as sweet as could be and genuinely cares about her clients. Everyone (from the receptionist to the instructors) takes the time to ask and learn your name, which goes a long way in my book (for my job, I try a ton of fitness studios on the reg, and I rarely see them take that extra step). I think my favorite instructor is probably Catherine--there's something about her energy that's motivating in a totally friendly (read: not annoying) way, and I find her classes to be more challenging than some others. But I've never had an instructor I didn't like and wouldn't go back to. I love Pure Barre, just wish I could afford to be a regular member! I've never left a class feeling anything short of awesome. read more

I arrived at 12:01 for a 12pm class and was not allowed in, the woman at the front desk stated that that was their policy for liability reasons. This is a pretty ridiculous policy especially in NYC, where no one can control the subways. I have never heard of a place where if you are 1min late you cannot enter the workout class. It's a work out class, not a meeting with the pope or even a play!!! I was meeting a friend in the class so I ended up just having to wait around for an hour while the class finished. Guess it gave me time to write this review... read more

I have not tried other Pure Barre studios, but I found the attitude at this one strangely hostile. At the end of my first class, I asked whether it would be possible for the instructor to demonstrate the moves in addition to announcing them. I was flatly told "No. Pure Barre is verbal, not visual." I explained that several of us in the class were new and that some of the verbal instructions were hard for us to follow. Again I got the same response, in a very dismissive tone of voice. I don't see why it should be a problem for the instructor to take a moment to demonstrate the moves, especially since he made almost no effort to do any one-on-one correction or adjustrment. read more

Love Pure Barre! Yes, the classes here do fill up (which is unfortunate for those of us who are not good at booking things far in advance), but that just makes them all the more intimate. The location is beautiful, looking right onto Columbus near the museum. The teachers are all quite friendly and helpful. The hands-on adjustments are part of what makes this barre place special, as opposed to others I've tried, like Flybarre. Unfortunately, the price is a bit steep, but it really is a great workout. Thanks Pure Barre! read more