I want to give a shout out for The Bar Method Marin. The staff and other students are like my second family. All of the teachers are so well trained. Our safety is their Number 1 concern. I have been doing The Bar Method for over 10 years. My body has become lean without bulking up (which happened years ago when I was doing "Boot Camp" type workouts). Many of us lose a little of our height as we become older. My height has not changed at all. My doctor agrees with me that The Bar Method workout has likely attributed to keeping me from "shrinking". Adrienne, the new owner of the Marin Studio is fabulous and has made many beautiful improvements to the studio. One last shout out to Lynn, the Studio Manager. Lynn has worked at the studio for years and always greets me at the 6:30AM classes with the biggest smile. It doesn't matter if it's your very 1st class or your 500th...Lynn will always make you feel so welcome. Thank You Bar Method Marin for bringing such joy to my life!!! read more

I just completed my 10th class today and I'm joining. I already see results and feel more flexible. The instructors do a great job of helping me get into the correct form. All of the classes are challenging and all the instructors are good. I should have tried these classes years ago! I love that there is childcare and that the space is aesthetically pleasing. All the employees are friendly and encouraging. I love meeting new people here and feel it's a great community. Cannot wait to see my results in a few months! read more

Love this place. I've been coming here for about a year and half and it's great! The instructors are great and the staff are super friendly. The studio is big with plenty of lockers. read more

I am an athletic person who does/has done competitive dancing, vinyasa yoga, hot yoga, boxing, tae kwon do, swimming, rock climbing and personal training. Needless to say, I am someone who gets bored easily with my exercise and needs variety/challenge. And although I've never been overweight, I carried a little extra weight that was hard to get rid of and no matter the high cardio/high impact exercises I was doing. Now that I'm approaching my 30s, it's only gotten harder. Bar Method changed my body. I joined when I found them on Groupon and I was hooked! The tiny movements do not look like you are doing much at all but holy hell you are going to be in pain. Burning pain. This is a total body strength training and it sculpts and sucks everything in. I'm happy to say within 1.5 months of consistently going to barre, I lost 5 lbs! And I feel STRONG. This is the fastest I've gotten results since 22 and I did not change my diet significantly. However, I did notice that my appetite did moderately decrease - I had less cravings and did not go for seconds as much. Perhaps my metabolism was changing as well. The space is great. Lights of natural light letting into the classroom. Ashley Chou is my goddess and I am her muse! I have taken barre at the Berkeley location as well as this Oakland location. And once I took Ashley's class, hers is all I took. Ashley's choreography is challenging and she changes it up for each class so she keeps it interesting. I have enjoyed majority of the other instructors as well, including Leanne and Gwen, but I have seen and felt the most noticeable results whenever I take Ashley's class. The membership is pricey and definitely an investment. But for the first time in my life, I decided to drop the dough because it works. Not only that, the front desk and customer service is top notch and they are very flexible and accommodating. P.S. Be aware that parking during peak hours is hard and you do need to wear socks. If you forget socks, you need to purchase a pair for $15 - EEK! The Berkeley location lets you borrow a pair, so that is the one thing I liked about Berkeley vs. Oakland. -- After three solid months of taking barre classes, I've lost 10 pounds total. I've gotten quite a few compliments on how toned I look and ask what I have been doing to lose it. I took a one month break from Barre, but the previous workouts must have triggered constant calorie burn? I continued to lose weight even though I took a hiatus. Seriously the best sculpting and toning workout ever. If you can afford it, I would recommend getting a membership. read more

Four months post baby and two weeks into Bar Method. I'm rubbish at it - the least bendy, least fit, still so far very much enjoying it. The teachers are pretty diligent about correcting positions, it's hard as hell and the environment is soothing and clean. Classes can get a bit full but I'd say that's a sign of how successful they've been in creating a challenging, engaging experience. So far all the teachers have been good and several have been great. Have the monthly membership and am getting there three to four times a week. So far feels very worth my money and time. read more

The staff is very welcoming and the workout is intense and pays off! I am not really a group workout kind of girl but this is the best one out there! Be prepared to struggle for your first 10 or so classes before you get into the rhythm of things. I do wish they had a slower more introductory workout so newbies can learn the moves and positions but you get used to looking around to follow along with the workout. read more

From the moment I tried Bar Method 7 months ago, I was hooked. I can't say enough about the supportive and encouraging environment the Bar Method team creates - instantly making anyone feel at ease. They have helped transform my body, making me stronger not only physically, but mentally. I am grateful everyday when I step into any one of their studios as I know I will always be greeted by a smiling face at their front desk, and a workout where instructors challenge me to push beyond yesterday's physical mental limits. The instructors are meticulous on form and I am always grateful to the close attention they give me with their corrections. I've mostly taken classes with Laura G, Tara, Jenn and Mara , they all have their own individual and creative style of teaching but yet consistent, contagious and challenging. Thank you all very much for providing the best 60 minutes of my day! read more

What a great place and workout. I was sore in muscle I didn't know existed. The gals appeared a bit clique-y at first, but were actually welcoming by the end of the class. I wish studios like this weren't so expensive, but this was worth the one-time visit fee. Check them out! read more

I tried the bar method initially on Groupon and loved it! I decided to get a membership for the few months I was in the area and everyone here was really nice and it's a good workout! I have trouble with high impact workouts due to my foot issues and the bar method was a great way to try a new workout without injuring my foot! Thank you Bar Method! read more

I've done the Bar Method in SF, and the Daily Method, pilates, yoga, running, bikram, bootcamp. You name it, I've tried most major workout trends. I was excited to see this show up in my hood! Now that I've tried a few classes, time for a review. While it's a decent workout and it's close to my house, I do have a few reasons for withholding the last star.... 1. I've noticed that some instructors really let the newbies flounder, doing something TOTALLY wrong and missing out on some of the benefits of the workout. I encourage anyone new to this type of workout to try one of the less crowded classes and tell the instructor you're new until you get the hand of their special lululemon inspired workout. 2. I tend to cramp easily when focusing on one muscle for too long. While I can complete a half marathon, or lift weights, I find that during class there are times where I have to pause and stretch out my legs because we've been working one side too long without a break. 3. I wish there was an app to schedule classes from my phone, and an automatic email reminder the day before class would be more useful than the confirmation email as soon as you register. FYI - there are lockers to hold all your stuff during class, and a water cooler to fill your politically correct water bottle. Some classes also have childcare so there are often little people running around. read more

Confirmed: The Bar Method REALLY IS a lovely addition to our neighborhood -- and my health. It's the 3rd of July and 35 classes later, I'm as shocked as I am thrilled to report that since I started on May 10th, I've met my goal of taking five classes a week -- a huge shift from exercising zero times a week. Here is my update: Changes In Shape: While the scale hasn't shown massive drops (have lost 3-4 lbs.), my body is changing.The most noticeable changes are in my arms -- visible definition in the bicep/tricep region -- a big difference and stunning to consider it's happened so quickly. My shoulders also look different (in a good way). And I can attest The Bar Method's "seat-lifting" claims are legit -- things are on the rise. I also see the first hints of changes in my legs, which were very out of shape and not at all strong. There is significant improvement in the toning of my legs -- one that I can honestly say I've never experienced before. It feels great! I am stronger -- a lot stronger. What used to be utterly soft is firming, and rapidly. And while all of these shape changes may not necessarily be visible to others (as my size has not yet dramatically decreased), I am thrilled because I feel fantastic in my own body. I know how good this is for my body, my muscles, my bones. I have read on a blog of the Bar Method's founder (Burr Leonard) that it is common, when just a few months into this regular workout, for folks to experience an initial bulking-up as muscles formerly ignored begin to "sit up" and attract water. She swears up and down that if you stick with this exercise, after another few months those same muscles will "wrap around the bones" thus giving a more lengthened and toned appearance. If that should happen, fantastic! And if it doesn't, less-fantastic but still fantastic. Being strong and healthy and vital is a higher prize than a smaller pair of jeans (but that would also be nice, Universe, just to clarify). Changes In Strength: Phenomenal. I have an incredibly weak lower back -- one that has never allowed me to do sit-ups/curls without (almost) instant pain. In the past when I worked with personal trainers, we had to create a number of modifications for me to do push-ups, curls, etc. without injuring my lower back. And planking? Forget about it. That was an instant pain and fragility-alert. I'm not quite sure how it's all been working over the last few months of Bar Method workouts, but this week ... for the first time ever, I've been able to transition from push-ups on my knees to push-ups on my toes. I may not stay on my toes during the entire set, but hell ... "progress, not perfection" is good enough for me as long as I stay headed in the same direction. This week I was also able to sustain a 30-second plank for the first time. This leads me to believe my abdominals and/or lower back are really getting stronger. This workout (especially the "thigh" and "seat" work) is relentless. But it also seems SO economical in that, I can't imagine what else I could be doing for just an hour 5x a week that would bring such significant changes in my body after two months. A decade ago, I ran two marathons. NONE of that training gave me the strength that I have now. Overall Fitness: I have never done any one exercise 5x a week, but the Bar Method is compelling (and addicting). Do I feel strong and fit? Yes. Do I get a lovely wash of endorphins at the end of each class? Yes (and that alone is worth the price of admission). Do I feel I could run the mile to class from my home without getting winded? No. I realize the class indeed gets my heart rate up, so there is definitely an interval/cardio component, but I do not feel that cardio fitness agility/lightness that comes from movement. And while that element is missing, what I do get that feels like a huge compliment to my fitness is all the stretching that takes place during class. The balance between strengthening and stretching the muscles is just a brilliant combo. I definitely feel more "in my body" at all times now and feel taller, or more aware of my posture. It all feels good. I haven't determined if I'll continue with classes or work out solo with their DVDs. I'm not confident with my form (as it's decidedly wonky still), but I'm also not certain I can offer the 4-month commitment they require to take advantage of their $175 monthly unlimited package. I'll be doing their DVD for the next few weeks while away from the studio and if that keeps me going, perhaps I'll take that route. But if I don't continue with in-class workouts, it's not just the excellent teaching and personal corrections/attention I'll miss. It's also the lovely studio atmosphere, the view of the trees from the studio windows, the camaraderie of the other students and warmth of the daily greetings given by Becky and Elyse -- just an incredibly warm, friendly and kind staff! Five stars all the way around. read more

I seriously didn't think I could love a studio as much as I love this place. The space is clean and modern and holy crap, the instructors-they're amazing! I really feel like the ones here are held to a higher standard than the other bar studios I've been to. The class flows seamlessly and they know how to push you! Bar Method is the only workout that I've been able to see results from and actually stick to. I shoot for about 3-4 classes per week. My physical and mental health are leaps and bounds better than they've ever been and I don't know what I'd do without Bar Method! read more

I've been going to this Bar Method since they opened in May 2013, the reason being is that I kept experiencing back pain while sitting at my office desk. I also had patellofemoral syndrome on my right knee which the doctor said was chronic. It is basically an inflammation of the knee cap that caused a lot of knee pain for me when hiking or moving my knees a certain way. I turned to bar method to help me build muscle strength and eliminate the pain in my body. Within a couple of months of taking the class, my back pain was gone and I wasn't feeling the knee pain as often. Now, two years later, I have absolutely zero pain in my knees and my back, I am way stronger than I used to be in my arms and legs, my flexibility has increased drastically - I can finally fold over and reach my toes (something I have never been able to do before), and I have a ridiculous amount of energy after work that I didn't have before. I highly recommend pairing this workout with cardio and a well-balanced diet. Unfortunately for me, I eat too many cookies and pies and have a hard time losing weight because of it. But I am working on that.. Here are some comments about the Bar Method (Oakland studio): THE STUDIO The place is very clean, modern, has everything you need: towels (big & small), a shower, and lockers. Compared to other fitness studios I've been to, this one is definitely one of the nicest and cleanest. THE WORKOUT This is a full-body workout that focuses on working those muscles you tend to ignore. It's low impact and there are always modifications you can do if you have an injury or pain, just let the instructors know. There is a high focus on form at the bar method, so you definitely end up feeling like you are getting picked on more than in other fitness classes. But it's a good thing because that way you don't hurt yourself and the exercises work the way they were intended to. If you are sensitive to criticism, just let the instructors know and they will keep it on the down low. My favorite exercises are the pretzel, leg dancing, kickstand curl, and all the nice stretches at the end. THE INSTRUCTORS All are the super nice and encouraging. I enjoy when they give me compliments on my form, have a good sense of humor, and have positive energy I can feed off of. My only feedback to the studio is to offer some 6pm or 7pm Level 2 classes for those who have been coming for a while and limit the size of the class to 18 (it gets a little uncomfortable with a lot of people). Overall great place and workout. I highly recommend! read more

It's a tough work out especially for those who are just starting to get in shape but it is effective The facility is clean, new and nice They think of everything you need The instructors are knowledgeable and help correct your posture. I'm always afraid to go when I sign up for a class but afterwards, I am glad I did and I feel good read more

The reply from The Bar Method makes it sound as if I tried to leave my child there while he was under 3 months old. That is not true in any way. Shame on them for trying to misrepresent what happened. read more

I love the Bar Method! I started here back in May and have loved it since. I remember when I first started here it was like love at first sight. I would get excited to wake up early in the morning. I remember talking excitedly with my friend after our first class about how friendly the staff is. What I love is how the instructors remember your name and make the effort to really personalize everyone's experience. It doesn't stop there either. I'm not sure how others feel about this, but personally I like when an instructor corrects my form and that's what the bar method instructors do. They make sure everyone is in correct form to really maximize the efficiency of each position. Aside from the awesome class and instructors, the facility is SO clean. After the class you can shower in a personal shower rooms that are stocked with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and a towel! Theyre not even basic brands. It's like dove, aveeno etc. As you can see I'm still on a high on how amazing the bar method is. I'd recommend this to anyone! read more

I am definitely a believer. I have tried all types of workouts - running, yoga, spin, boxing, loved them all, and was even a member of Equinox when I lived in LA. I never thought I would pay more than my Equinox membership, but here I am paying more every month, and it is worth every penny. My butt and thighs have never worked out before like they do in bar, and I feel like for the first time in my life, there may be hope that one day, my fatty triceps will not sway back and forth when I wave. The class is really hard and it takes a few weeks of coming regularly to really begin understanding the movements, but it is totally worth it. It is not one of those classes where you can look at your neighbor to see what you should do, because a lot of the times the movement is so small it is like everyone in class is just standing awkwardly. That's where the instructors are really critical, and the ones in Oakland are amazing. The instructors give you so much personal attention that you will figure it out soon enough. But most importantly, I love bar because I no longer get injured during my workouts. I used to hurt my knee and wrist all the time in boxing. The low-impact movements help you strengthen and tone muscles without injuring yourself. And sadly, as I've aged, my body just doesn't bounce back like it used to. Bar helps to strengthen muscles which prevent injuries in your daily life, and it has actually helped my running tremendously. Give it a try! It is more effective than anything I have ever done. read more

The ladies of the Bar Method in Oakland are FANTASTIC. Used to horrific customer service since moving to the area. Not from these ladies - it is clear they love what they do and are happy to share it with those who wish to practice. The studio space is absolutely beautiful too. read more

Beautiful place. Professional staff. Very beneficial exercise routines. Took 1 star off because it is way too expensive. A lot of people (such as myself) can not afford $165/month to exercise. If it weren't for Living Social, I would not have had the chance to try the place. If you can afford it, go for it. You will not regret it. read more

I've always wanted to try this when I lived in LA but never had the time to but now I do :) I really enjoy the beautiful space and I feel good when I go. The staff is incredibly welcoming and I don't feel out of place even though I'm a complete newbie. This is going to be a part of my routine and I'm looking forward to results! read more

Another fabulous experience with The Bar Method. The instructors Elaine and Knigi were excellent! I am learning something new with my body and it feels great! If you are looking for new body posture and movements to get you back in shape. The Bar Method is the place to be. read more

I absolutely LOVE the Bar Method. I saw results in one month and I am continuing to get stronger, feel sexier, and more flexible. Its still really hard, so if you want an easy work out, go elsewhere. The instructors are personable and helpful, the entire place is spotless, the music is always good, and the other women are really nice. All levels, ages, and lifestyles. At first I thought it was too much money, but I realized its well worth the cost. Although, it would be nice if they offered some better long term deals. read more

If you like Barre or Bar Method, this place is for you. It is modern, clean, huge, and has such great customer service. It is not cheap at all though. AND there is just one class they offer - Bar (and a more advanced Bar) but nothing else. No yoga or cardio or any different type of class. While there is a little variation sometimes between teachers, it is extremely formulaic and actually gets boring to do day after day. I WISH they would have a different type of class offered here. Basically, it's a good muscular workout but otherwise, you most likely will not sweat. If you do, it's extremely limited. So, if you like Bar Method, with almost no variation, this place is awesome! If only they would expand to add a few other things, I would join this lovely gym just to be in the beautiful space! read more

I went a few months ago as a free session from one of my friends. Loved it. Now I just need to sign up and make it work in my schedule.

Tried out this spot w/ gilt voucher after trying (and loving) bar method in LA and downtown SF. This spot is also great! I really like that the studio is on second floor w/ great natural light. The bar facing Lakeshore Avenue has some great people watching which makes thigh exercises seem to pass more quickly. So far I've tried Ashley and Elise - both were great. Also there seem to be a lot of regulars who go and there is a really nice sense of community (of people w/ pretty cut arms and abs!!) The showers / locker rooms are really nice and you can park at trader joes. It seems to still not be quite as packed as the SF studio so much easier to make reservations. Enjoy!!! read more

I have never ever Yelped before, so yes, The Bar Method Oakland is that fantastic! I am slightly obsessed (?) I took my first Bar Method class in the Oakland studio last May and instantly fell in love. I loved that the classes were unique to any other workout I've tried and that I felt and saw results immediately. Classes are high energy with fun music and they are well sequenced to properly warm up the body to avoid injury. After taking classes several times a week since October, I have increased strength (my arms are ready for summer!), more openness in my body (I can do the splits!), better posture and have healed injuries (YAY!) For all these reasons, I am a believer in the Bar Method and the workout makes me feel great! What I have also come to love about The Bar Method Oakland is the community. I feel the instructors and management staff are phenomenal. Each one of them is my "favorite" for various reasons and they all have impeccable client service, knowledge and instruction skills. The instructors are so motivating and push me to change myself. In addition, I have met many wonderful women and men and have formed new friendships. When I signed up for my first class, I had no idea all the wonderful changes Bar Method would bring into my life. read more

I LOVE THE BAR METHOD! I cannot say enough great things about this place and the people. I found this place through a Living Social deal and I've been a member ever since May 2013. I take classes at least 5x per week and I'm still learning new moves. This full-body workout has completely transformed my body, so nice to notice my waist and biceps again. The studio is very bright and clean. The amenities are also quite a perk. If you forget any workout gear they also sell cute attire to purchase.The best thing are the staff including the front desk gals and instructors who are all so friendly and really want you to tuck and squeeze lower. You must check out The Bar Method and I'll see you in class! read more

Studio is bright, clean, and generally a nice vibe. I like how The Bar Method does more active stretching than other barre classes, which I think helps lengthen your muscles. read more

I absolutely love these classes. All of the instructors (especially Ashlee) are incredibly present, skilled, and kind. This workout is like no other it focuses and challenges me. read more

What an absolutely humiliating and demeaning experience. I am pregnant and after months of pregnancy sickness I finally started feeling well enough to go back to a Bar Method class. I have gotten really out of shape and know that exercise is important for me and my baby. I show up at class and ask if I will need to do any modifications at the front desk. They couldn't think of any but were quick to tell me how I would need a doctor's note to participate. A doctor's note?? First of all, I had called several days ago to reactivate my membership, making it very clear on the phone that I was pregnant and Renee whom I spoke with gave absolutely no mention of a doctor's note. But the real issue here is - now Bar Method is in charge of what I do with my body because I'm pregnant? Where are all the doctor's notes, or maybe even medical records for the people who haven't worked out in awhile, or people who have a heart condition, etc?? We are ALL doing this at our own risk, duh. So I keep standing there, like a 5-year old child waiting to hear if I can pretty-puleeeeeeze give you my money and exercise??? Puhleeze? Well they couldn't find the rule about the doctor's note in the official manual, then they tried to call around for a manager, then got through to someone who was clearly also in charge of my body - and the following questions were asked of me in front of everyone by the front desk: How long have you been taking Bar Method? (2 years) Did you already take Bar Method when you were pregnant? (yes) Did you watch the pregnancy video (what video??)? And I guess since my answer to the last one was "no," my personal body keeper, a.k.a. Oakland Bar Method, tells me "no, you cannot exercise here, take this video little girl and go home and watch it and you come back with your doctor's note now and then we will let you exercise your body." (Not their exact words, but 100% how it felt). Then the instructor decided to share, because I clearly wasn't humiliated enough that I was being turned away, that the rules are "to protect the client." We all know there are people a lot less healthier than pregnant women who could keel over, so save the corporate language for updating your manual, and start TRUSTING WOMEN AS ADULTS TO MAKE THE BEST DECISIONS FOR THEIR OWN BODIES! read more

I have been regularly attending classes for about 10 weeks now, and I am obsessed! I've been working out consistently the past five years, but bar method is so different than anything I've ever done. Even if you've taken a lot of classes, they are still challenging because they are constantly incorporating new moves and combinations, and many have modifications to try to increase the difficulty. The instructors are probably the best part: they are all very hands on and correct you without making you feel embarrassed about doing something incorrectly. They also quickly learn everyone's names and praise you when you're doing well. I have to specifically shout out Leahanna, Knigi, Ashley, and Hayley who have taught a lot of my classes and made my experience so great! Classes do fill up quickly, so you need to book well in advance online and leave plenty of time to find parking. The cost is pretty high, but I think I'm going to stick with it because I enjoy coming so much. And the facilities make it easy for me to work out, clean up, and head to work. read more

I have been going to this Bar Method location for a year now and have only good things to say. Cleanliness and organization are prime concerns to these owners and trainers, and they go out of their way to make Bar a great experience. Last -- but certainly not least -- I have gotten results, results, results!!!! --Sharon M. read more

I am still loving it. My Favorite front desk girl has become one of my favorite teachers. My work schedule is crazy so I can't go as much as I would like. I love what it has done for my body and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a change. read more

I just got off the phone with one of the lovely ladies from this location (I'm so sorry I didn't catch her name) and I'm already impressed. I submitted a question about parking via web form on their website earlier today, and received a call back a few short hours later. She was able to answer my questions about class availability and scheduling, too. I'm impressed and can't wait to start my classes. read more

I just started a month ago when I snagged a good deal from Groupon. It is unlike any workout I've tried and you will be sore in muscles you didn't know existed. The teachers are awesome (sometimes they have two instructors) and they provide hands on correction. They remember your name and the studio is very friendly. The locker room is clean and the studio is very nice. I highly recommend The Bar Method in Oakland. read more

I've been coming here since November 2013 and I still find the classes challenging and rewarding. All of the teachers are super nice and helpful and everyone at the front desk is awesome! I would recommend it to everyone who's interested in finding a supportive place where the classes never get old. read more

Bar Method is, by far, my favorite workout for group exercise. I've tried yoga, spinning, Zumba and Pilates. Bar Method exercises are doable for any fitness level. The moves are small and simple but when done properly, your body will burn, shake and eventually CHANGE! The staff and instructors are welcoming. They will encourage you to work hard without you hating them. If you come to class, the instructors will learn your name and assist with you getting into proper form. It's not a place where you can hide in the background! They offer childcare for an additional fee for many morning and afternoon classes. It's a great workout for both men and women. Once you try it, you will be hooked! read more

I LOVE OAKLAND BAR METHOD!! The instructors are nice engaging and tuff! They really push you to the limits and classes are always fun never boring. Staff is unbelievably nice, my kids love their childcare the attendant is very attentive and sweet plus there is tons of toys and activities for all age groups. The place is always clean the workouts are tuff. I definitely recommend bar method for a full body workout especially for toning and lifting.... Must tuck tuck tuck squeeze squeeze!!! Shake Shake Shake!! read more