I injured my knee several years ago while training for a half marathon, and no amount of stretching on my own solved the problem. Physical therapy helped a bit, but the pain lingered and never fully went away. I then tried a few Bar Method classes and after a month or so I was pain-free! Bar Method Berkeley is awesome! The instructors are fantastic and super friendly, the classes are challenging, and there is a nice sense of community at the Studio -- and even online during these Covid times. Days that start off with a Bar class are always the best days! Love love love Bar Method Berkeley! read more

Totally excellent. Love Bar Method and love the Rose Street studio. Great teachers, fab location in the Gourmet Ghetto, and good down to earth vibe. They offer a ton of classes everyday and child care (not that I need that) making it super easy to fit in a class at anytime. read more

Bar Method is the real deal. It's one of the few workouts I have stuck with in long time. It's very effective and fun. It has improved my strength over years. Instructors are very well trained and will support you. They push you to get a great workout in a nonthreatening manner. read more

In a word -- OBSESSED. I've never been a big workout person. I find the gym to be boring, non-motivating and always got lackluster results that never pushed me to continue. The Bar Method is the opposite -- its super motivating, awesome instructors and I can already see results in the 6 weeks I've been a member. Bar Method makes me excited to workout. It makes me feel more confident, empowered and energized. I never thought I would find a workout that I can stick to and has such great side effects. The studio in Berkeley is very clean and minimalistic which I love. Yay Bar Method!!! read more

I found Berkeley Bar Method about five years ago from a friend who posted on Facebook and I'm so grateful. I've never done such a strong workout that is so thoughtful in its design and with such attentive teachers; no injuries and my strength and flexibility keeps getting better. I love the community - everyone is very supportive. During lockdown I've found their online classes to be almost as good as in person - they still watch carefully for form issues and continue to challenge and encourage remotely. They've also used the time to offer more in-depth workshops on specific challenging exercises. I believe they have launched some outdoor classes with social distancing that I'm looking forward to trying. Viva Bar Method Berkeley! read more

The Bar Method in Berkeley has been one of my top on-line workouts during this shelter-in-place. The owner and instructor extraordinaire, Helen, immediately organized the classes to incorporate all the amazing instructors, as well as the inspiring women who work the front desk to act as models for the Zoom classes. The studio is run impeccably....from the cleanliness to the on-line sign-ups to the timing of classes. If you are ready to try something new when life resumes (or at home for now), you'll be welcomed with open arms! read more

The Bar Method in Berkeley has provided far and away the best workout experience I have ever had. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the facility is modern and clean and the instructors are knowledgeable, helpful and super friendly. I have tried numerous forms of exercise in the past, both classes and gyms, and I have not been able to motivate myself to stay engaged in the workout for more than a few months. The Bar Method in Berkeley feels totally different to me - it is a hard workout but I feel so strong after that I immediately begin looking forward to my next class. I have been going to this studio now for 5 months and I can't imagine ever giving it up. The app makes signing up for and managing classes a breeze and the results of the workout in terms of toning and weight loss (so far 15 pounds!) are truly impressive. Very highly recommended! read more

The bar method is great! It's a very unique full body workout and isn't too repetitive, unlike other bar classes I've taken. Everyone is welcoming and friendly and the instructors provide individual corrections. read more

Finally feel like I'm getting strong! I've always been a casual runner but realized I need something easier on my joints and more focused on building overall strength. I've been taking classes for about 3 months and really enjoying it. The space is super clean and well appointed. The instructors are very friendly, encouraging, and personable. I appreciate that they correct you / help you do the exercises the right way. Makes me feel like I'm getting my money's worth and keeps my on my toes so I don't slack off.. You have to schedule your classes in advance but the app makes this really easy. Definitely encourage you to give it a shot if your considering. I think I might be addicted! read more

The Bar Method is an amazing work out and a great all around experience. As an injured competitive runner, I've struggled to find an enjoyable, rigorous way to exercise. The Bar Method improved my strength and flexibility and class was always fun. The instructors at Bar Method Berkeley are absolutely lovely. They are always upbeat and make an effort to remember your name (and even know your birthday!). Most importantly, the instructors always offer specific adjustments so that you know that you are doing the exercises properly. The studio is clean and well equipped. I highly recommend Bar Method Berkeley to anyone. read more

Really impressed with this studio. The instructor knew everyone by name, and I felt zero pressure to do exercises that caused me injury or pain. I have some major knee issues that barre tends to aggravate, and I felt totally safe and encouraged to modify as needed. The owner happened to be taking class, remembered I emailed her, and checked in with me and gave me advice about my knee injuries afterwards. Talk about running a business well--I will most definitely be back! read more

I looooove the Bar Method! All the staff are really friendly! I started in January and have continued to go ever since. The classes are a little pricey but the studio is very nice. read more

I love this location! I've been going to Bar Method in San Diego for 2 years, and coming here did not disappoint. The space is gorgeous-very open and inviting and incredibly clean. I love that they offer childcare in the mornings as well. The class flowed wonderfully and the instructors make sure to give enough attention to everyone who needed help. There is plenty of parking (meter and 2 hr street) as well, which is great. Plus you can walk down to Philz right after! WIN! read more

This is an update from my 2015 review. Still very happy with Bar Method workouts and wonderful, friendly staff. Even though I've been going for a few years, I always find something to challenge me: a more advanced option for an exercise, increasing my weights, or trying the more aerobic Bar Move classes. There are now 4 different types of classes to choose from, which helps keep exercising fresh. And as the studio has grown, more instructors (all fabulous) and more class time slots have been added. It's now more convenient to get in a workout. Other pluses include $5 childcare for weekday and Saturday morning and the Bar Method app for scheduling classes and childcare. I find it especially helpful if a class is full to use the app to see where you are on the waitlist. If a spot becomes available you get a text and reply Yes or No that you want to be added to the class. I almost always get a spot if I'm #1-2 on the list, but I've gotten in from as high as #6. While clients are predominantly women I've noticed a handful of men who attend regularly and are working just as hard. Many exercises appear deceptively simple, but are quite difficult if you do them correctly. Looking forward to newly added special class focusing on correct form for two common Bar exercises. read more

Okay, after finally trying Pure Barre in Seattle as another major barre chain, I felt the need to update this review so you guys can get the full comparison of every major chain! Bar Method and Pure Barre are probably the two most different barre studio chains, but both are great. . It is the most different in terms of exercises and sequencing from the others and much more high energy than most of the others (especially different from bar method). I think it's definitely the most challenging and I get the most sore from it. So far, Nice instructors but not quite the community feel as bar method has (where every instructor knows everyone's names and calls you by name all through class! - very cool). The music at PB is awesome. Super high energy electronic remixes of great songs. Perfectly curated. Other studios often don't have such high energy music OR it doesn't match as well to the exercises. PB plays the same music that I would listen to on my own, which makes the hour fly by even faster because it's fun. Bar Method music is good, but not great. Caters more to a diverse crowd I think. The resistance bands that Pure barre uses adds an extra element of challenge to the same exercises bar method and other chains do, which is awesome (for example, looping it through your legs in seat work v. just doing seat work by creating your own resistance). Finally, PB pushes to the edge, and completely fatigues a muscle group out before moving on to the next thing, which none of the other chains do, which just makes it a tougher workout. It feels more "bootcamp"-ish That being said, I'm not sure it's a great idea to fatigue your muscles to exhaustion every single day. They need recovery time in between. So, while I might go to Bar Method everyday, I wouldn't necessarily go to PB everyday. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, it's just a different approach to what you're looking for. I imagine that results come more quickly in Pure Barre because you're pushed to the limit. This happens only sometimes in Bar method - the overall energy is much lower. I'll mention here what I did in my Pure Barre review: Overall, I'd recommend Pure Barre more to advanced/fit people because it is more challenging and there is less personal instruction and correction on form than Bar Method, but Bar Method would be a better place for someone looking to get back into shape or very new to Barre. Barre3 and Dailey Method both fall somewhere in the middle, challenge-wise. I've never met a barre class I didn't love, so really, it comes down to personal preference and style/need. Right now, I'm really enjoying PB's high energy, fast pace, and grueling workout but also loved my time at Bar Method as well. I don't think there is a Pure Barre near this Bar Method anyway, but if you're interested in comparison of all the chains, here it is! read more

If you are looking for a fast way to lose weight and tone up, look no further. The classes are rather dull and repeat the the same series of exercises over and over, but the results are great. I came here after having a baby and after a month was able to get into my pre-pregnancy jeans. No small feat! Not a very friendly studio, but when your body is looking and feeling good, who cares? read more

I've been to many bar method locations in the bay area and this is by far the best one - spacious studio (high ceilings & windows), nice changing room, and Helen, the owner, is fabulous. Not to mention an amazing workout! read more

I love this studio! I find that Bar Method classes are a GREAT addition to the weight training and spinning classes I usually do (well, sometimes do). They work your muscles in different ways. I'm sore in different places. I feel more flexible but also significantly stronger at the end of each class. But at the same time there's something restorative about the experience at this studio - from the changing area to the workout area itself. All of the teachers are lovely and committed and helpful. One hour here makes my day so much better! read more

I recently bought a class pass so I've been trying out a bunch of studios. The Bar Method has turned out to be my favorite barre class! The studio is clean and modern, the teachers are super friendly and remember everyone's names, the exercises are challenging and an amazing workout. For my first class here, I arrived the suggested 15 minutes early. Parking was easy to find just around the corner as I usually take the 6:45pm weekday classes. I was immediately greeted upon walking in, checked in, and filled out a few forms. Meghan gave me a quick tour of the studio and then led me to class. The studio is very spa-like and clean. I was amazed at how nice the place looked. Meghan also learned my name right away! In fact, during all the classes I've taken here, every instructor has known my name even when I've never been introduced before. I love the extra effort the teachers at The Bar Method here take to learn everyone's names. It makes the experience so much better and you feel like more than just a body in a class. The actual classes are challenging in a good way. I grew up taking ballet so I was always interested in taking barre classes. I have to say don't expect these barre classes to be like ballet. They're definitely ballet inspired but not the same. Nonetheless, I really enjoy them. I feel the burn with every exercise but I never leave the class drenched in sweat which is good when I have things to do after class! My muscles definitely start shaking during every class but somehow I'm able to push through the pain and not give up. I think this is due to a good balance of the class being challenging but not insanely difficult. Unlike other barre classes I've taken, I feel like the instructions here are very clear. This is very important with barre classes since you're targeting very specific muscles at a time so if you're not doing it correctly, you're kinda wasting your time. I've taken classes at other studios where I got lost trying to follow all the instructions given to me. I like that the instructors call you out on corrections and will also come up and adjust you. It's the best way to learn and correct your form! Overall, I highly recommend anyone thinking about trying a Bar Method class to just go for it! I can't rave enough about this place. read more

Berkeley's Bar Method is awesome. Great teachers and space. It's how I start most weekdays. Having said that, it's also hard and tedious, but I've committed for the year because I know I would not do these subtle and not-so-subtle movements by myself. Having been hard on my body with various sports, I'm more protective of it now because I have to be. I appreciate the controlled movement which reduces the chance of injuries. Still, Bar is pretty fast paced, there is no savasana. Why do I bar? Because I've missed my waist. Because it makes me feel good about myself. Because I don't want to wear clothes to hide my body... read more

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

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

I'm "addicted" to bar method. I tried it for the first time two weeks ago and I am really bummed when I have to miss a day! I haven't seriously worked out for a few years now and, as a result, this type of exercise is not easy. But it is very gratifying and when the hour is done, I feel terrific. The classes vary according to the time they are held: the 6:30am class is much more grueling than the classes later in the morning, and I think this is because the folks who attend are very fit and active and able to do much harder work. The classes that have childcare are where I feel is the best fit for my activity level, but the early morning works for me, too - I just can't (yet) do the higher level stuff. The childcare is great! My kids love it and the childcare people are very friendly and kind. They also know that kids will initially pitch a fit and they know how to handle that. The staff is incredibly friendly and I'm so surprised that they remember my name after the first class! They often correct my technique, which I really appreciate because I don't want to be doing the exercises incorrectly. I notice they also provide modifications to any exercise and there are many people, especially in the later morning classes, who require this. The modifications still whip you into shape, but don't put pressure on hips, knees, back, etc. They have lockers with keys and clean bathroom and dressing area. I think they also have a shower. They have the option to book classes online or over the phone. It is a really pleasant place to workout. read more

In the sentiments of "You get what you pay for," Bar Method does not disappoint. Without a promo, the price is hefty; however, from the service, amenities provided, and instructors, it is the creme de la creme of excercise institutions. Service: From the front desk receptionist to the instructors, they provide great service. The receptionist walked me through the sign up process and even booked my first class for me! An instructor, Megan, showed me around the facility and the amenities they provide. Many may say that they are just doing their job, but I just like how sweet, genuine and welcoming everyone is. Facility & Amenities: Don't let the exterior fool ya, the interior of the facility reminds me of a spa. It provides hair ties, towels, fem napkins, showers, lockers, etc. for free. Even the keys rings for the locker keys look fancy. The Bar also provides day care at allotted times. The changing room, studio, and restrooms are spacious, and new looking. Their amenities got a lot of "ous"and "aws" from me, being that this was an excercise facility and all. Class: I've only attended one, my first, class on a Sunday. It was packed to the gills with students, but Megan was still on point. She even remembered my name and helped me correct my form throughout the classes, along with many other students. Above and beyond points for her were when she saved me a spot so I was able to see the exercises from a front and center viewpoint, knowing that it was my first class. Lastly, that class kicked my ass, in a good way. I could feel my muscles burning throughout the class. The day after, my muscles were sore. I can't wait to go back for some more ass kicking. 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

I never would have taken a class like this on my own, but was talked into it. I was hooked after that. I went from working out 1-2 times a week at my gym to working out 4-5 days a week. Four months later, I have dropped not only weight but body fat, which is much more important. Every instructor is extremely encouraging, the facility is very nice and clean, and parking is pretty easy. They even have a kids room, where for $5 you can leave your child in good hands while you work out! It's low impact and you work out all muscle groups the right way. read more

Very clean and therapeutic workout studio! Instructors were all very nice and motivating. The workout itself is challenging but not too exhausting. This is a great place to workout if you are in a rush and don't feel like showering immediately afterwards lol... read more

I LOVE this studio! I wish I lived closer, as it is beautiful, the teachers are great and the owner, Helen is wonderful. I enjoy coming to Bar Method Berkeley so much! I have been to six or seven Bar Method studios and the Berkeley studio is extra special. Not only is the staff really friendly, but the studio itself is brand new and really spacious and aesthetically pleasing. The neighborhood is cute and the parking is easy. read more

I would honestly drive all the way across the bridge to go back to the Bar Method. I lived nearby and would go before work and on weekends, and it is such a great studio! The only negative about moving to SF was not being able to go to the Bar Method on a regular basis. Megan and Helen's classes especially are fantastic. The entire staff is so friendly and they provide a welcoming and fun environment. It makes you look forward to going to classes! The studio is also very nice- always very clean and well-maintained. 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 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!

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

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