In one word...Addicting!
I never craved working out until I tried Pure Barre. I have finally found a work out that does not seem like an obligation. I look forward to the workout itself, and the resulting after-class- total-body-euphoria. What is that?!!
The Routine:
The routine is in this order: warm-up, legs, butt (seat), abs, and then your arms get worked during the warm-up and during the routine. The warm-up is typically the same, but the moves for the other parts of the routine are changed up during each class. You will use weights, a ball, a tube (single or double), and a mat during each 55 minute class.
The Results:
I had noticeable results after just 4 classes. My butt was so much firmer and lifted and I developed the most definition I have ever had in the back of my upper thighs. I have always been on the thin side, but have rarely had any muscle tone. After 16 classes, I noticed significant changes to my triceps and biceps and even received a random compliment on my trapezius muscle (I didn't know what that meant, and had to look it up). After about 20 classes, I've noticed substantial changes in my obliques and am able to really isolate individual muscles in my body. Overall, I've gotten more compliments on my body in the short time I have been attending Pure Barre classes (5 weeks, 20 - 25 classes) than I have in the past 5 years combined. Bonus result - at the store, I was able to carry a 20 lb box of cat litter with one hand f-o-r-e-v-e-r. Normally it would require two hands and about 20 breaks along the way. Proud moment!
First Time:
Your first class can be intimidating. There are some strong women in the class who have been attending for a year, and it shows. But there are also attendees of all experience levels and body types. People can appear to keep to themselves and many times have very serious "barre faces" on when they are concentrating, but the more you engage, you will find everyone to be very friendly and encouraging. The Rockville location does a good job of creating a community, sponsoring challenges, and hosting after-class get-togethers in the studio to celebrate individual accomplishments. The instructors are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Ask them anything, anytime! I questioned them to death in the beginning!!
Here are some other tips if you are new to Pure Barre:
1) The class is fast paced and the moves can be a bit confusing. The pace and moves are more manageable the more often you attend and the stronger you get. You'll figure it out eventually. Until then, ask questions.
2) Proper form requires micro movements and isometric holds. Moves are typically tiny and barely noticeable. Watch the Tuesday's Technique Tip videos on YouTube (channel: purebarrecompany) for helpful explanations.
3) If you get lost in class, look for the teacher or someone wearing black socks with red writing on them. Those people have attended 100+ classes so they have experience. BTW, you can purchase sticky socks for $12-15 at the studio.
4) Attend a "Breaking Down the Barre" class as soon as you can. The moves are demonstrated at a slower pace and you can ask questions during the class. Super helpful!
5) Don't overdo it. I was staying in plank position for too long too early on and was having back pain. I am now slowly building up to a longer plank time and my back feels great! Don't be afraid to modify!
6) The routine is challenging, but completely doable! There are moments where I want to scream, but then it's over and I've yet to regret the burn. Class is exponentially harder if you take two days off in a row. Try to attend consistently.
7) For some laughs, read this post called "100 Thoughts I Have During Pure Barre". http://forevertwentysomethings.com/2014/07/31/100-thoughts-i-have-during-pure-barre/
Pure Barre is a fun, upbeat, and challenging workout. I love almost everything about it. The Rockville studio is great and the instructors are fantastic. However, I would be remiss not to mention the very few cons I have noticed:
1) Entryway: There is not much room in the entry way, so it can get crowded. I typically try to arrive 5 minutes before class to avoid the entry way rush.
2) Schedule: The schedule is not ideal for me so I end up having to take leave from my job to attend class each day. The latest class on Friday is at 5:30 pm, the latest class on Saturday is at 11:00 am and on Sunday there is a gap between the 11:00 am class and the 4:00 pm class.
3) Cost: The classes are expensive. The best price offered is a 12-month unlimited auto-contract for $165 per month ($300+ cancellation fee), but if you attend 5 days per week, that's approximately $8 per class. There are other occasional opportunities for discounts on full priced packages during sales or challenges. Also they offer substantial discounts for students, teachers, and military personnel. The new client special of $99 for one month unlimited is totally worth it! read more