The hardest thing about this place is getting started. The first several classes are really tough, but it's worth sticking with it and after a while you'll get in the zone. There are always challenges and perfecting posture/form so it never gets too easy. I'm quite possibly the least motived exerciser you've ever met and I'm still going after 1.5 years. There is a really nice vibe of no judgement or competition, it's clean and cheery and it has a lovely sense of community. This is a great place. read more

The staff at the Bar Method are always so professional and sweet. The business is run really well - the owner is awesome at communicating. The place feels like a spa. The exercises are great for my posture and boosts my confidence. My arms and back now have amazing definition. It's great to feel strong and look good too ;) read more

I've been going to the Bar Method in Berkeley for 6 months now and am in the best shape of my life. I've had joint problems since middle school with my back, knees, and wrists, and so have shied away from sports and most forms of exercise. I've gone to some bar classes at other studies (the UCB RSF and an Xtend Barre studio) and this one is absolutely my favorite. The whole environment is super friendly and supportive! Highlights: - I've never been able to do a single pushup on my toes before, and now I can do 30!! - wonderful instructors who are enthusiastic and super helpful with correcting form - super easy scheduling online and on an app - can make reservations or drop in if there are spots, for times throughout the day - beautiful, clean studio with a women's locker room, two bathrooms, and a shower room; shampoo, facewash, mouthwash, extra hair ties and bobby pins.... they think of everything! - the workout! I try to go at least 5 times/week since it's really expensive for me. I can go before or after work and feel energized - I love the combo of strengthening, stretching, and cardio. It's expensive, but I find that actually helps motivate me to go as much as I possibly can and then it's not too bad! And I'm always glad when I go, as I always feel better afterwards. Feeling down with the state of the world? Exercising has really helped me cope. read more

This place is the best place to be part of a community of kick-ass women. This form of exercise keeps me pain free and walking after a bad back injury and I have received a tremendous amount of support to get there from Helen (the owner) and all of the amazing staff. Come by and see for yourself. read more

Love the class! Really the best workout ever! The flexible class schedules are the best, and there is a real sense of community. Five stars through and through read more

This place, the people, the workout=incredible. The workout is hard, but the instructors somehow keep it interesting and fun, it almost feels cathartic. Not only does my body look better than it possibly ever has (after going 4x/week for a few months), but I have less pain as a result of the exercises as well. I've had discomfort from an ongoing rotator cuff injury for years, as well as some back and hip issues, but all of it seems to be getting better through slowly building up my muscles. The instructors, who somehow seem to double as physical therapists (seriously, they seem to know a lot about physiology), continually help you make minor adjustments so you get the best workout possible, with the least amount of risk of injury. Also, the studio is spacious, light-filled, clean. I'm hooked. The only thing to be aware of is that this place is so popular that you NEED to BOOK your classes pretty far in advance (like 10 days), especially for early morning and weekend classes. read more

I love everything about this Bar Method location. Prior to coming here I could never get myself to exercise consistently, but it's been over a year and I'm still going strong! The studio is always spotlessly clean and feels so warm and inviting. The exercises are really challenging and continue to be even after coming for a long time. You can really see the changes in your body and feel the increase in your strength and endurance. But the real reason to come is for the people. It's such a positive community and everyone who works here is so genuinely kind and encouraging. All of the instructors are really really great. If you're having a bad day take a class with Yvonne because her cheerfulness and silliness are bound to cheer you up! If you're not convinced, the studio dog Lucy is reason enough to come because she is the cutest! read more

I've been going to the Bar Method for about two years now and I'm completely hooked. The classes are fun and challenging. The teachers are warm and inspiring. AND they have childcare! When I first started, a year after my second son was born, I had zero abdominal strength. I couldn't even get into a plank position. Now my core is coming back, my chronic low back pain is gone, and my overall posture and alignment are improving with every class. I feel stronger and more flexible than ever before. I assume I'll just keep going forever since it's the perfect workout for all ages and abilities and taking care of my body is one of the best gifts I can give myself. read more

I was introduced to this studio and workout by a good friend. I was hooked instantly even though I thought I would head to the light a few times during my first class. While the workouts are great what really makes the bar method in Berkeley are the instructors: they are personal, caring, and knowledgable. And they have really great voices; not the screeching boot camp type coaching voices but positive messages in very nice tones. You may feel like you're getting killed but it's softly! I've become so much stronger and even with my well used knees, I can still find ways to do the moves and the instructors are fantastic in making sure we are well aligned to the best of our abilities. They have great challenges The studio is light, clean and has a positive energy to it. Parking can be challenging sometimes but I just consider the walk part of the warm up. If I can do 20 on toe pushups what's a little walk to and from the car?! Besides, most people know parking in Berkeley is practically illegal... read more

I'm so glad I found the Bar Method! I've been attending classes regularly for over a year now and look forward to many more. I have been running for over 10 years but had never quite found the right complement to running (core strength, flexibility, upper body work) until I started taking bar. After just a few months of classes, I proceeded to have my fastest running year ever! I feel stronger and leaner, and have results to prove it ;) The instructors are wonderful, and really take the time to get to know you so you get personalized attention. The workout itself is surprisingly varied for something that is so structured (they have different types of classes that add a nice variety too). The studio is bright and clean. Finally, they have a great schedule that meets my needs. read more

An excellent total body workout. The classes are according to a format so that the quality of the class is not instructor dependent. The instructors explain the exercises and make individual corrections. The classes focus on alignment and safe execution of the movements. Highly recommend. read more

I've always enjoyed exercise but have never settled into much of a routine because I'm not good at self-directed exercises and gyms are intimidating. I am so happy that I found the Bar Method! It is so welcoming: everyone is provided equal feedback, everyone is positive. The results have been wonderful! I am so much stronger and more flexible than a year ago. And there are always more challenge options to go for! read more

I've always been an athlete; running, swimming and doing other sports. It was out of the realm of my consciousness to do a *gasp* class *gasp* inside. Until I finally admitted defeat about my seriously messed-up back and had to stop doing anything remotely high-impact. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that I could get a challenging, effective workout at the Bar Method that made me feel just as great as running did, and without the pain. Granted, you have to know your injury. The staff is great at working with you on modifications, but only you know what works for you and you have to be very careful to get it right and not trigger your injury. The space is so clean and beautiful, the instructors sweet and encouraging, the vibe calm and meditative. Somehow Bar Method manages to be both a workout and a respite, and for that I'm thankful. read more

This is a happy place. Warm, friendly studio, a continuously challenging workout and a crew of exceptional instructors. Try it!

Finally found a workout I love! I struggled getting motivated to go to the gym, even with the help of a personal trainer. After doing research for a class that seemed more fun, as well as challenging, I stumbled across Bar Method. Not going to lie, my first class kicked my ass, but after going the second time, I began to see why so many people loved this workout. I went from twice a week to four times a week, and really look forward now to my workouts! All of the instructors have been great, knowing students by name, helping to make sure you have correct form, and calling out with compliments and encouragement when you are doing a killer job! The studio is clean and the class schedule allows for a lot of flexibility in order to fit in workouts. I am so glad I found the Bar Method, and I can't wait to continue pushing myself and my body! read more

Facilities are all super clean and modern. Staff are all friendly and helpful. Instructors are awesome and the childcare is affordable. I've taken classes three times a week for almost a month and feel stronger/more fit. I only wish the monthly unlimited price was more affordable, but it is on par with other barre studios in the area...just seems to be the going rate. read more

I love this place. The mixed level classes are great. You do the most you can at your level and build up the strength to do more challenging moves. I felt my muscles getting stronger after one week and the instructors are great. They make sure you have the correct form and make sure you don't forget to breathe. It is also really fun. I am hooked. read more

Love, love, love this place. No matter what class you take the instructors are hands on and you can make your workout as easy or as challenging as you want. I always call it the most efficient work out in 60 minutes. I highly recommend this place for anyone wanting to get fit and wanting to stay motivated and inspired to work out. Thanks Bar Method Berkley! read more

True confessions moment! My pattern is to get excited about a new form of exercise -- sign on with whatever the package deal is, then within a month or two grow restless, not go as often, and then feel bad that I have wasted my money and not fulfilled my commitment to myself toward physical well-being. NOT SO WITH THE BAR METHOD !!!! I have been coming to classes for nearly a year! After a few months, I admit, a part of me was expecting the same old thing -- it would not be too long before I was out the door looking for the next best exercise hit that would sustain my attention and interest. NOT SO!! Okay, so when I ask the question, what is it about THE BAR METHOD that keeps me happily coming back several things stand out... There is nothing about going to the Bar studio that is anonymous. The culture of friendliness abounds. When I enter, I am greeted with a smile and everyone knows my name. There is genuine warmth in the feedback that instructors provide during class. They are very well trained and knowledgeable about anatomy so their feedback is constructive and designed to optimize my progress and to insure that I do not injure myself. Another plus for me is that I am 67 and can't possibly do what some of the 30 years olds are doing in the class. Yet, the instructors are always there in the moment to offer adaptations to anyone who for whatever reason can't do a specific movement or stretch; and then, on top of that, to affirm whatever is possible in the most positive way. They are always there to encourage and celebrate progress however big or little it may be. It cuts through the usual compare and despair phenomenon that often permeates gym culture. And, much to my amazement, by going to BAR classes I have reclaimed an amazing amount of my former strength and agility. It's like turning back the clock. I am significantly stronger and appreciably more flexible than when I started. YEA BAR! read more

The space is beautiful and the instructors are energetic, motivating, and attentive. I've tried the Oakland Bar Method, and while they are still great, I've come back to the Berkeley location for more. It's what they advertise - it's a great low-impact way to get in some cardio and tone your body. Thanks girls! read more

It's more than 4 years later and I am still devoted to The Bar Method Berkeley. The studio is a bright, clean, and welcoming space with a shower for a quick clean up before the rest of your day, lockers to hold your stuff, childcare if you need it and plenty of parking around the neighborhoods. The instructors are phenomenal. They all know the exercises thoroughly, variations for various reasons (making it harder, to do something different, or to deal with the stuff of life - pregnancy, a sore ankle, stiff shoulders, whatever!) I do not know what I would have done without the community there - the community of people who take classes as well as the instructors. They've helped me through shoulder surgery, knee surgery, life crises with kindness, care and awesome instruction. I am completely addicted and as my hair has turned from whatever it was to grey, it's more valuable than ever. These are not classes full of ballet bodies and 20 year old booties - it's fabulous to go there and see so many people, such different body types, and so much friendliness too. The pleasure in people's faces as they say "that was a tough class!" is so cool to see and be part of. Did I forget to mention that after 4 years, my thighs shake like crazy still? Crap, I could go on forever. Maybe I will, as long as I keep showing up at the Bar. read more

I began taking classes in May 2014. It is now September. I typically commit to a new work out regime for 30 days before making a decision about whether to stick with it or not. I have tried circuit training, boot camps, hip hop cardio classes, P-90X and T25 all over a span of 12 months and nothing stuck. I don't enjoy kettle ball swings, sprinting uphill with 20 other huffing strangers, balancing my legs in tethers from the ceiling, nor do I enjoy seeing my arms bulk up. So, when a living social deal came up for Bar Method (Berkeley studio) I thought I should give it a try, but wasn't too excited. This place is amazing. The classes are deceptively difficult and the teachers are wonderful. They all make it a point to learn your name during the first class and they consistently provide very important yet subtle corrections. My thighs were on fire during my first class. Had to soak my legs the first week-but now that I am a few months in, the Epson salt has been returned to the cabinet even though the class is still challenging and my body feels it after every class. This studio is beautiful and in a great location. The other classmates are not super chatty-I assume due to the focus required during class-but they are all certainly very friendly and welcoming to new students. I have lost 5lbs and my body has changed for the better. I have taken classes from Helen, Jackie, Meghan and now Yvonne and I am always learning something new. If my schedule allowed, I would be there every day. I am so happy to have found this place and hope I can keep with it. I highly recommend The Bar Method in Berkeley. If you haven't found the right fitness routine, please try this place. If you HAVE found a fitness routine, please try this. Side Note: I came with a friend who decided that she liked circuit training better. So this may not be the perfect fit for everyone- but if you want to work on your core, your legs, back, arms and butt, I strongly recommend this class. According to my fiancé, my backside looks fantastic thanks to this class. This studio and its teachers want you to enjoy your body no matter your size, age or background. And I think they do a really nice job. read more

There are many things we miss about Berkeley since we left a year ago, and I must say for me Bar Method is one of them...this one in particular. I actually don't like to workout AT ALL but I got so hooked on Bar Method because it is the first time I saw fast results. I felt stronger, healthier and more energetic than any other forms of exercises I've done in the past. Simply put, I felt good and I looked better in all the right places! I've tried Barre3 in our new location but it's definitely not the same. The instructors make a huge difference on the feel of the studio, the community. I miss going to Yvonne, Helen & Megan's classes! They are so motivating and full of positive energy. It was such a pleasure starting my day off with them. I also love the studio because there are mirrors on each wall & everything is well-kept. Last but not least, they have child care for most of the morning classes! That is something I have not been able to find down in this side of the Bay! Because of the lack of child care at most bar method classes I can no longer take them down here. Such a life changer :( Well if we ever move back to Berkeley, I know I'll be go back to this Bar Method studio! read more

I started Bar Method along with the birth of this studio pretty much, back in 2013. I witnessed how Helen, the owner, gave a warm welcome to everyone and now 2016 still does. Because of my work schedule it became difficult for me to attend class so I tried other studios closer to my job, I even have the Dailey Method right across my office ...but still I prefer to cut down hours at work and drive 30 minutes and search for parking to go to the Berkeley studio, it's soooooo worth it! Every instructor is knowledgeable and encouraging. If you are looking to be fit while being challenged simultaneously in a supporting environment , this is the place to be! Try it once and you will see it's addicting, in a good way of course:) read more

The Bar Method is an amazing unique workout that focuses on big isometric muscle movements with little to no impact on your joints. It borrows the best techniques and practices from ballet, pilates, and yoga and seamlessly combines them into a 1 hour total body workout. The best part is you don't need to be a ballet/pilates/yoga master to effectively do this workout. It is readily accessible to EVERYONE. Even if you are a master in one of these areas, it is still an incredibly hard workout that greatly improves your strength and performance outside of class. As an injured dancer who could not continue dancing without causing further injury, this has been my saving grace. In my 5 months here, I've lost 30 pounds and my dance strength and technique has greatly improved (all while being injured). I've gained serious muscle tone in places that I didn't even know existed!! The instructors here are genuinely nice people who are extremely dedicated to helping clients meet their own personal fitness goals. They not only remember everyone's names, but also remember if you have a specific type of injury/medical issue that prevents you from doing an exercise. They will teach you how to modify an exercise to prevent further injury and they even help pregnant women who are close to full term figure out how to safely exercise (when I say this place is for everyone, I mean EVERYONE). Bar Method instructors are extremely knowledgeable (it takes a full 6 months of training before they can teach their first class) so you can absolutely trust them to push you to your limits without getting hurt. I've tried a variety of different exercises and gyms where the instructors are militant and tell you to just suck it up and do the exercises regardless of how it feels in your body. This is not how Bar Method works. It is designed to keep you exercising and healthy for the long term. If you are doing something wrong or need help modifying because you're in pain, the instructors will come up to you during class and immediately adjust your form so that you don't hurt yourself. Most Bar Method clients sign up for long term unlimited monthly memberships. You do have the ability to purchase single or multiple class card, but it's a way better deal to buy the unlimited package. While I know some people just look at the price tag and feel that it may be too expensive, I can tell you that it's absolutely worth every penny. I like the monthly unlimited membership because it encourages me to go more often. The more classes you go to on a monthly basis, the cheaper the rate is per class. Even if you only go 3x a week, you end up paying $13.50 per class, which is a really good deal, especially in Berkeley. They also have great deals for students and if you are a new client, your first month is only $99. If you are looking to make a long-term positive impact on your body without having to spend countless hours working out at the gym, this is absolutely the place for you. This place is seriously awesome and you need to come check it out ASAP. read more

I was so excited to discover that a new Bar Method will soon be opening in North Berkeley! The studio won't be opening till around February next year but in the meantime, the owner is offering FREE community classes in a temporary space. You need to reserve a spot beforehand as she can only accommodate six people per class. I attended last week and loved it! For those unfamiliar with cardio barre, it is a mix between ballet, strength training, yoga and pilates. It is kind of hard at first as you likely have never worked your muscles in that way before, but the teacher is great at talking you through the poses, and once you get the hang of it, you will notice differences in your body! They don't post the community classes on their website, but you'll get emails about them if you sign-up on their website: http://berkeley.barmethod.com/. read more

I'm a lazy person who rarely exercises. Helen, the owner and teacher, was super patient, clear and kind in explaining the exercises, correcting my positions, etc. My muscles ached afterwards, but in a good way. She mixed it up a lot so I didn't get bored. Most of all, she was very warm and welcoming, which goes a long way to helping with motivation. read more

Love this place. Was looking for an exercise routine after having to give up running due to back issues. Has improved my strength and flexibility. Definitely concur with other reviewers that the instructors are great, the space beautiful and parking easy which all combine to make it appealing. Check it out! read more

Definitely appreciated the friendliness and welcoming vibe I got. This is key for me. It's been so long since I did any exercise - AND they are really good at what they do. It looks easy but this workout definitely reminds you how most of us are not in good shape even when we think we are. They focus on core strength, mobility and posture. read more

Overall this is an average studio. But please pay more attention to your students and PLEASE turn on the fans! Unless you want to introduce a Bikram Bar Method class.... it gets way too hot in that room! read more

Again, can't say enough good things about this studio. I have been coming here for almost two years and still find it to be a challenging, great overall workout that has improved my strength tremendously and rid me of previous chronic neck and back pains. Superb, attentive instructors who will challenge you to do more than you thought you were capable of. If you are looking for an exercise class to fit into your routine that will leave you coming back for more, I encourage you to try it out. read more

Berkeley Bar Method has been everything I was looking for after my second baby. Two years later and I am still getting an amazing workout. I love the teachers, I met so many inspiring and awesome friends; and my kids love the childcare. read more

The studio is beautiful and the staff and other clients are very kind and inclusive. The instructor is clearly talented and knows what she is doing. She was very informative and helpful and also had a great sense of humor. read more

The Bar Method has all the ingredients for a great workout: 1. Beautiful, clean studio; 2. Friendly, professional instructors; 3. An ever changing menu of exercise with enough routine to make it doable; 4. A serious yet laid back atmosphere without too much perkiness yet enough enthusiasm to keep you going. read more

I love bar method. I took at another studio for a long time & was on a bar break. A living social deal came up & I thought it was the perfect way to jump back in. I was pleasantly surprised by the Berkeley studio. It's beautiful & everyone is so nice. Helen is an amazing teacher & you feel how much she enjoys her studio in every bit of time spent there. I highly recommend taking classes here. read more

Was walking in my hood and was on Rose Street in North Berk and I saw it...Bar Method coming soon! I'm super excited and need to know when the grand opening is!!? I used to practice regularly in San Mateo and Marina district but recently moved to East Bay. I'm really excited and can't wait! My body was so sculpt and lean back then, such an effective workout and I'm ready to get back. read more

Berkeley's hottest bar workout is Bar Method. It has everything. Body changing/sculpting classes, amazing staff that take the time to know your name and give you useful corrections, socks for when I forget mine, and a beautiful studio space. You really can't beat it. They've even mixed it up and added a few more classes recently. If you're here because you're looking for a butt kicking, addicting workout that will get you hooked on consistent workouts and will get you in shape, get over here. read more

The workout is consistent yet every teacher offers a different style/element. All ages and level of fitness. Safe, professional, clean and welcoming. I have been going for 2 1/2 years and love it. read more

The studio is a central part of my day. Absolutely great instructors. Knowledgeable and supportive. So grateful.

I miss the Bar Method when I have to miss for any reason! Even vacation. The teachers are awesome and constantly pushing us to be our best. They are skilled and really know how to help us gain lean muscles and core strength. After two babies my core had taken a big hit and now I'm stronger than I was before babies. The studio environment is friendly, modern and clean. You'll thank yourself for checking it out! read more