All I can say is: DO IT. Although I've been through an entire month of Bar and like 18 classes, I just felt compelled to do a review because I went to The Bar Method studio in Burbank and it was NOT THE SAME. In fact, I just posted a review on Burbank's page because I think people need to be aware that all of these studios are owned by different people and have different cultures. I paid $20 for a class at Burbank, and while it was cool, I wish I had just put that $$ towards another month at Pasadena, which I'm pretty sure I'll be digging coins out of the bottom my purse to pay for now anyhow. So, I just typed a novel on the Yelp page for the Burbank studio, but short synopsis: love Bar, lost 15 pounds in 3 weeks (in conjunction with a lower carb diet), toned up immensely, still want to lose more, arms look better than they have in years, now a Bar devotee quickly on my way to becoming a Bar evangelist. I'd made a resolve to just go around LA to the various locations and do the month trial at several different locations, but I just LOVE Pasadena. I didn't even think I would be this passionate about it, but having a comparison now, I see that my initial love of the Pasadena studio wasn't just some crazy transference issue and my fears of having some weird, unhealthy attachment to the studio that introduced me to the Method were unfounded. It's just a kickass studio with awesome teachers and a great culture. Love that the studio is SO bright and well-lit (windows cover the walls in addition to the standard bar mirrors), love that the instructors are really personable and fun, but also no-joke when it comes to the workout. Love the loft-style feel of the studio. Just love it all. I listed all kinds of other things I loved about this studio relative to my feelings about the Burbank studio here: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-bar-method-burbank#hrid:v9TLcKZ07N8tSM9sn-8q0A , but there's no need to rehash it here. Suffice it to say I love The Bar Method and I love the Pasadena Studio. When you go, try to take Mason's class--he's amazing and his class is fantastic. Jenn is also badass and tons of fun. I've taken Kelsey and Anna as well and have no complaints with them! I've never taken Kate's class, but I've heard she is a killer--maybe not the best intro if you're brand new. I'm STILL not able to make it through an entire class without stopping at least 3 times, and I won't be taking Kate's class until I can! read more

This class is deceivingly difficult!! I walked into a room full of all women who looked like a mixed fitness level (on the lower level). Grabbed the heavier weights and found myself a spot by an older woman. OMG i got rocked. Why was I the only one shaking like a leaf, and is it normal to be sore for days after?! I like to think I'm pretty fit, but this class is very challenging and you use muscles you don't normally work on. I'm not in love with the class/workout. Not sure I'd do it again. read more

I started going to this studio in early June after just getting tired of being out-of-shape and weak. I had heard good things about bar method from a colleague a few years back about how much stronger she had gotten. This studio...staff and instructors...are wonderful. This space became my sanctuary for about 2 months before I had to move. Natural light. Such a calming atmosphere. Great work out. Friendly and welcoming.Everything an introverted non-athletic girl can want in a fitness community. Sad I'm not able to come here on a consistent basis anymore. Thanks Bar Method Pasadena! read more

My workout of choice is indoor cycling/spin, and bar/barre is my 2nd favorite workout. I've taken MANY barre classes at various studios, and this class was fantastic. I took the 6:30A Mixed Level class on Tuesday with Kristina, and she was wonderful. She really kept track of everyone's form and made the necessary adjustments to make sure the workout would be the most effective. This is up there as one of the most challenging barre classes I've ever taken, and it makes me want to go back. As for the facilities, they're very clean and you can tell that the staff takes great care of the location. Parking is the only thing I found to take some time. I parked in a parking garage near by that gives everyone 90 minutes, but one should keep that in mind when going to the studio - make sure you give yourself time to get to class on time. I will absolutely be coming back when I'm in Pasadena! read more

yep, passed my 2-year mark in Feb 2013, and I'm still going strong. I'm writing a follow-up review because there've been some personnel changes over the past year or two. sadly (for us) Kelsey & Jenn left, but the good news is a) they opened their own (very successful) studio in Silverlake and b) the Pasadena studio brought in a couple of extraordinary instructors. I always have such a hard time with change - just a creature of habit, I guess - but I quickly came to love our new-ish instructors. (i say "new-ish" because, seriously, it's been over a year). I never reviewed Jessica, so let me just say, "WOW" and "OW". she's terrific x 10. go to her. go to her now. you will be worked from top to bottom. no joke. I rarely ever get to take Sara's classes, but dang, I wish I could more often. even if it was just once a month. schedule conflicts, unfortunately :( she's magic, though. you won't get through a segment without knowing which area of your body you just worked. I also adore Amber and Kat - they're both crazy-talented instructors, out to give you the workout you deserve, but also very supportive and non-threatening in their approach. Heather, the newest of the bunch, is great at talking the class through. not sure if that's a new-instructor trait, but I find that her classes remind me that I can't get too comfortable with the Bar Method routine. sometimes I really appreciate (and need) the reintroduction. it keeps things fresh. and of course, continued praise to the veteran teachers: Liz, Kate, Mason and Anna. so thankful to them for their dedication. lucky for us, they still bring it pretty hard. read more

I first have to start off by saying that before Bar Method I wasn't much of a workout kinda girl. I never found something that motivated me and I dreaded working out. With the Bar Method I totally saw a change in my body within a month. My husband would call it my "stretching" class until he finally took a class with me and he agrees it's harder then it seems and a total body workout. I've been taking classes 3-4 times a week for a little over a year and look forward to going to class. I love that the instructors take the time to learn your name and correct your form. I also like the fact that in the mixed classes you have different options to challenge yourself. My favorite instructors are Anna, Jessica, and Mason. Each have their own style, but they totally kick a**! Bar Method is definitely a must try! read more

I wish I could come here more often, but I did come in using the Yelp! deal and found the classes very satisfying. I run like 3 marathons and a handful of half-marathons each year on average and work out 6 days a week, but this class works areas I'd otherwise not get to conventionally. The first time I went, my legs felt like jell-o afterward. Things got easier after that, or things just hurt in different places, but that's part of the satisfaction. I'm pretty sure I'm the least graceful person who has ever "graced" that studio, but the instructors are nice when correcting you. Mason was my favorite. read more

Wow, Bar Method is something else. Its where everybody knows your name! I didn't know what to expect when I took the first class and it turns out that their method is a hard core form of pilates, ballet and some light weight training. The instructor has your hold these positions that look fairly easy to the point that your knees buckle under you. I can see how regular attendance can improve your flexibility, strenght and everything else. My butt in particular hurt so bad the day after which made me really happy. If I had the money, I would be a regular. Loves it! read more

I went to my first Bar Method class today and had so much fun! The class, instructor, and studio were great and made me want to return soon. I purchased a Gilt City coupon for five classes for $45. I had worked out at Pure Barre, Cardio Barre, and Pop Physique so I was curious to compare Bar Method to its competitors. I had downloaded the Bar Method app prior to arriving at the studio and I liked that the app tells you how many spaces are left in each class. I'll know whether I need to reserve a spot or decide the day of to attend class. The studio is located in downtown Pasadena and next to Bella Cures. The front staff was polite and quickly checked me in. I was so happy to see lockers with keys and a beautifully stocked women's locker room. There were towels, Aveda face washes, DryBar hair products, and hair ties. This was such an upgrade from Pure Barre! Christopher taught the class, and he personally introduced himself before class. I felt so welcome! The class only had 7 people so it was great to be in a smaller class. Throughout the class, Christopher was so attentive to each student and made modifications based on skill level. He really tailored each exercise to the student and was very pleased to see such care. I always had an issue with other studios who packed students in and the instructors who were so robotic. The class workouts are most similar to Pure Barre but with more stretches throughout the class. I also liked that there were different barre heights for your flexibility level. Overall, I was happy with my first class and looking forward to more workouts here. Pros: clean facility (socks required), attentive instructor, great instruction and modifications Cons: No parking validation read more

I still love this location and classes over other barre classes in Pasadena and Alhambra.

I went to many Pilates places to compare. This one is a good studio~ good service, instructor is nice and the environment is okay. But what I dislike was the music. It does not really makes me energetic and does not provide the rhythm for ppl to follow. Kinda random... And what I really wish at the moment of exercising was for the instructor to really tell me how much more to go... " last ten! Seven, eight, night, ten more! Then, .... Seven, eight, nine, ten more..." I really wish she could tell me just the truth so that I won't hold my hope then count again... Otherwise it's all cozy and nice~ the instructor paid special to me because I was a new to class. Appreciate it. read more

I hadn't really thought to review an exercise studio/class before, but wanted to write about this one because I was so surprised. I wouldn't have believed you if you told me how sore and toned I'd feel after an hour of exercise that didn't really get my heart rate too high or involve weights greater than 5 lbs. I've taken a good amount of pilates and yoga classes and was still very impressed with the muscular intensity of the workout. I've taken a few classes there now, and every time have felt ridiculously good at the end of the workouts, which isn't something I can say for all the exercise class options I've taken (I'm really lazy about cardio/toning type work so if I don't go to a class I'll just lift weights). Plus it really stretches you out and I'm terrible about stretching on my own. Each time the class has been unique which I find refreshing (I hate when you've gone to a class enough times to know exactly what's coming next). I also like that the exercises are set up to allow you to work to your maximum level, so you can kind of pick your point of failure (if that makes sense) which is what gives really good workouts. The studio is absolutely beautiful and perfect for the classes, although the men's locker room is a bit small, which contributes to the one negative which is that it feels pretty distinctly female-oriented. That's not to say I feel out of place or don't get an amazing workout, but the core audience is definitely women (one nice thing is that you can pick your own weights/resistances at times so you can put extra oomph into bicep curls, etc.) The teachers are great and really good about correcting form and ensuring a great workout. It's really nice when my muscles are shaking and I want to quit to hear the instructors cheer on my effort. Overall a terrific workout that goes way beyond what you'd expect and really allows you to push yourself to the max without hurting yourself. read more

I have attended a few classes here and I have to say I love it. I didn't necessarily feel that way after my first class because I had no idea what I was doing and didn't really feel the burn, it wasn't until after my second class that I realized that you are supposed to shake for the class to really take effect, that's when I fell in love with it. The burn is soooo satisfying! The instructors are great and the staff there is really helpful and friendly. The only downer is that the classes are super expensive, keep an eye out for special deals on different sites, because it makes a huge difference. Oh and if you are looking for parking, park in the structure across the street from Tiffany's it is closer than the other one on Fair Oaks and you can just cross through the alleyway. Have a happy work out! read more

Holy crap. Im so out of shape. I took my first Bar Method class with Mason today. Let me tell you that it will definitely give you a work out. My legs have never convulsed and trembled so hard before. I was really intimidated when I came in but Mason was so nice and personable. I would definitely say that Im not at the height of my fitness but I was able to keep up and Mason let us work to the best of my ability. As for the workouts, theyre very unique and I work very well to isolate problem areas. I like the you work out and stretch to get lean muscles. Also as a FYI, they provide lockers and towels. You can use the parking structure on delacy since there is one and a half hours of free parking. You can get to class fifteen minutes early, grab a spot, work out and still make it back to the lot with time to spare. Bar Method, Ill be back! read more

Been going for over 2 years now- love it! Aside form the knowledgable and personable instructors, parking is free for 90 minutes, can't beat that! You can't say that about other bar method locations that are a nightmare to park! The first thing I noticed was my how fast my behind got into shape- the butt exercises are extremely effective! My favorite's being arabesque & pretzel. The loft location is beautiful with nice rooftop views, it's a nice distraction while your thighs are shaking & burning so intensely that you want to scream! Along with a good diet regime, this will get you into a NICE physical shape fast! read more

I came here with my gf to see how she spends her morning. I thought this would be some foo foo exercising but I was sadly mistaken. Bar Method is tough and you really have to "work it". Makes me appreciate her much more on the time and effort she puts in to look good for her and for me. First class is usually free. Go and try it out! read more

This place is AMAZING! I'm giving this place a try through a Living Social deal they had. I'm barely heading into my second week so it's too soon to say how the results are, but so far, this place gets 5 stars from me. First of all, the studio is awesome and you really get what you pay for. I think it's a girls dream come true! They have lockers with keys for you to put your belongings, provide water, and even towels. The restrooms have EVERYTHING too! It includes lotion, face & mouth wash, face wipes, and even a bowl of hair bands. The instructors are great and are always helping with form. I'm still a noob to this so my form is always off (still can't get the tuck right) but I'm sure with time, I'll get somewhat better. The workouts, if done correctly, BURN and make you SHAKE like crazy. Although I hate the feeling and can't wait to get it over with when I'm doing it, I know I'll be thankful later :) read more

Little gem in old town Pasadena! Located on the second floor in front of Spinfish. Took the free trial class and oh man I had my arms and thigh sore for few days. The instructor Anna who is pregnant currently is amazing! She will come to you and fix your position to reach the ultimate workout. Parking is easy if it's not weekend or evening , park in structure. read more

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This studio was recommended to me by a friend. I was hesitant at first because I wasn't sure exactly what type of workout to expect, but I decided to try it out one day and OMG! I struggled so much after class walking down those stairs to exit the building. I think we've taken every instructor there and they're all super friendly and encouraging. All of the movements/exercises are really small and simple but they make your muscles burn so much that they start to shake uncontrollably! My husband and I decided to purchase the deal they offered on Groupon when I was about 18 weeks pregnant just to get me out of the house to exercise and I'm so glad we did. It's helped me out tremendously throughout my pregnancy. I was getting leg cramps in the middle of the night and coming to bar a few times a week has given me peaceful nights of sleep! The instructors have been great in accommodating me every week as I progress with my pregnancy by giving me modifications of the exercises. I'd recommend this studio to anyone looking for a good workout! The first class is FREE so come check it out! :) read more

I always get my butt kicked every time I come here, and can't move the next day. However, I still find myself returning to Bar Method time & time again as my tried-and-proven strength regimen. I hate the gym or using heavy equipment to build strength, so this is my answer! By all means, the classes here does not equal to frolics in the flower fields, but all the instructors are encouraging and great at keeping the energy level up. Besides, each 1 hr class (warm up and cool down included) is quite time-saving for those on the go. I also enjoy the windows in the studio that lets in sunlight, as compared to other locations' office-like environments. The only downside is the steep steep price, so as much as I enjoy these classes I can't afford to attend them regularly. I guess you get what you pay for because the results are fantastic!! Thankfully there are deals from time to time, so take advantage! read more

It hurts so good. I exercise all the time. I ran a marathon and a half marathon this year. I'm at the gym usually 3-4 times a week. I came to the Bar Method and it kicked my butt. My muscles were worked every which way here. I haven't felt my legs hurt like that in a long time. The instructors also take the time to try and learn your name...which I thought was a nice touch. Nice amenities in the locker room like every skincare/hair care product you'd ever need to get ready. I only checked it out because of the Yelp Deal, which I was grateful for. So I got a nice 5 class package. Too bad I can't afford to do this regularly. Its too expensive for me to do 3-4 times a week. So I'll just have to go back to my regularly scheduled gym program...and maybe buy some Bar Method DVD's just to get that good hurt again. read more

This class had me sore for 2 days straight!! During the class my legs were shaking like crazy! I think this class worked me out harder than Insanity ever did. I would totally get a pass here if there was a location closer to me, because I know they have a great first time customer deal right now. They also have a deal where you can email your friend a free class to let them try it out! What really impressed me about this facility was just how beautiful and clean it was. The bathrooms come with drinking water in a jar, facial lotion, face wash, and many free lockers! The actual room where the class is held is impressively clean and well kept as well. I would definitely recommend this place! read more

I was visiting Pasadena with a few girlfriends and we decided to try a barre class. Although we are an active group (of sorts), none of us had ever taken a barre class. So, three beginners (newbies, tourists) walk up the stairs to the beautiful studio space. The room is open and airy with painted brick, large windows, mirrors, and wooden barres. We were greeted and welcomed as soon as we entered. We never felt uncomfortable for having no reservations and just 'dropping in'. Our class started on time. The instructor was new, and a little nervous; however, she had great energy, led a good class, and was encouraging and knowledgable. We went to a 4:00 class and there were 4 other students 7 total). The music/routine was a little 'canned', as other reviewers have noted, but was fine for our purposes. We all left sore, feeling as if we'd had a great workout! read more

I Enjoy coming here for our work out the trainer are very nice and will remember your name the first time you tell them. They're pricing is a bit pricey for every day workout but definitely come check it out. If you don't want to workout alone at the gym. P.S. The workout is pretty great leaves me sore in a good way. read more

Just took my first class here last week and it was nice... The place is nice and clean, teacher remembers all the students name, love the natural sunlight comes in the studio feel very comfortable. Got plenty lockers for students to use and free water right outside the studio unlike the kickboxing place i went to that they sell sports drinks and bottle water :S Got my ass kicked a little bit after i abandon ballet for 10+ years :S but not too bad... hopefully i'll get my groove back soon ^____^ Nice place, can't wait to come back this week. read more

Update to my previous review. I've been a member of this Bar Method for around 7 years. I do circus and martial arts outside of Bar Method. However, after sustaining a major back injury earlier this year I had to stop all my intensive training and do physical therapy. After my initial recovery, I came back to Bar Method and it became my main fitness routine. Bar Method was the only thing I could do safely with my injury while regaining my strength. I'm grateful to Bar for even more reasons now and I know that I can trust all the instructors to be mindful of my injury while pushing me to train my hardest. read more

Still loving Bar Method many years in. The Bar Move classes are more challenging than the Level 2 classes and more fun since you never know what's coming next. You need to have a number of classes under your belt for Level 2, but you need even more classes for Bar Move. The instructors give you less instruction on how to get into the correct form for the various exercises since all the students are more seasoned, which means more time to work out. I like how they really emphasize your form and body positions to maximize the muscle you're working out. I also like how the music isn't super loud like other barre classes and they don't shout into the microphone. Anna is still my favorite instructor, but all the other instructors are great too. read more

I FEEEEEEEEL THE BUUUUUUURN!!!! so when i walked into the bar method the first day, i immediately thought, "wow, i am way too fat and stiff for this." this preconceived notion was easily disproved by the second class. these wonderful instructors really push you- in the best possible way- to burn fat and reshape your figure. they are focused on giving you the results that you want! i have lost 15 pounds from doing the bar method (along with the necessary cardio before) and am happy with the results provided. the studio is also super gorgeous and clean. i would definitely recommend coming here! my favorite instructor is anna! read more

Pro: Great workout, easy free parking lot (90min) close by, nice environment and staffs. Con: A little bit pricy without promotion to a student...... read more

They offer a complimentary first free class for newbies that you can email to yourself through their website, so I convinced my sister to come try out a new fitness class with me. I rarely do strength training on my own, so was a little bit anxious to feel the burn. And feel the burn I did! I liked that the exercises did not require much equipment. You definitely don't have to be ballerina status to do this class, although I did despair at the inflexibility of my hamstrings during certain exercises. I learned that even 2-lb weights can be tiring, as long as you repeat lifts long enough. This lesson kind of reflects my main takeaway from the class: I don't see myself becoming a hardcore barre enthusiast just because the routines themselves don't incorporate innovative movements or techniques; rather, the class is just a good way to motivate oneself to workout among others for an hour. I feel like many of the exercises could be done while holding onto one's refrigerator, or simply a wall. But it's good to get pointers about posture and optimizing drills, or enroll in a program if you don't trust yourself to get off your booty regularly! They start promptly when the classes are scheduled--my sis and I strolled in a few moments before 10am and the secretary dude was a little flustered about quickly signing the new student forms and reciting a quick orientation, etc. I guess I've never been to such a specialized gym/training program, as opposed to just my school gym, so the professionalism of the facility and staff impressed me. The instructor Liz Gayed was really attentive and had an excellent name memory! read more

I wish I could afford it on a monthly basis other than Yelp, Gilt City or Groupon deals. If you find one of those, it's a fantastic deal. The class is super hard. Even if you do spin, running, kickboxing, pilates, you name it, this still kicks your butt. But in a good way! I really love adding it to my workout routine, meaning doing it maybe once a week. I'm not sure I could do it daily, as I think it's good to also have a gym membership to get a good variety. read more

Bar Method is a great 1 hour workout. I highly recommend trying it. It is a very thorough workout targeting all areas of your body. I've experienced my muscle fatiguing, shaking, and burning. They have a great routine. Since it is a lot easier to cancel here compare to PIlates Spx in Pasadena, I find it easier to cancel my workout, which to me isn't a good thing. I'm still trying it out after I purchased a Yelp Deal a few months back. I still have 3 more classes so one of these days, I'll complete it by the expiration date. The classes fill up pretty fast. One thing I do not like about their scheduling system is that they sometime only have 1-2 weeks of schedule available. You can park in the parking lots for free up to 90 minutes or on the streets before 11 am. I love that they provide towels, free water, and sometimes even socks when I forget to bring one. They have a nice bathroom area with combs, brushes, tampons, etc. The staffs are all very friendly and have a lot of energy. They are so friendly that they address everyone by name. I prefer they don't do that since as a newbie, you don't want them to call attention to it. read more

I started Bar Method a couple months ago with a Living Social deal. I am loving it! The facilities are really clean and they have lockers for you to store your things. All the instructors are really nice and I love that they make sure to learn your name before class and go around correcting your form. The pace of the class is perfect. The hour always goes by so fast! I love the interval work punctuated by stretching. I have become more flexible doing Bar Method than I had just doing Yoga. Also, it really does help with toning. I don't know how much it would help with weight loss (change in diet and increase in cardio would help more), but it would definitely help with strength and defining muscles. I knocked off a star for the price, because it can really add up! Luckily, you can keep an eye out for Groupon and Living Social deals and they offer "Flash Sales" for the unlimited month option, so sign up for their e-mails so you don't miss out on those! Overall, I think Bar Method is a great supplement to one's workout routine. read more

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Bar method! Took a free trial class with my friend and was SOLD. I prefer exercising more, becauseI get bored of repetitions easily! Doing reps just doesn't cut it and exercise is more overall and doesn't target specific muscle groups. Bar makes doing reps fun and challenging. You do the tiniest movement but you can really feel the muscles working during the workout and after. It's truly amazing. I pretty much love everyone's class! Anna, Kristina, Christopher, and Mason, they are all so friendly and so awesome in many ways. Wait no longer, join the fun! read more

I love the studio with very clean changing/bathroom and friendly staffs. I am writing this and can feel my body sored now. Yes but it is the kind of happy soreness because I know the workout is working for me. I also loved the fact that instructors checked and fixed my form and give me some good feedbacks. Come and try out the class and I am sure you will come back. read more

I just finished my one month introductory package and am totally addicted to Bar Method Pasadena. I have tried most of the fitness studios in Pasadena area and this one out shines them all. It is clean, professional and has an amazing staff. Anna, is a superb teacher and is the real reason I was inspired to write this review. I have taken her class 3-4x per week and she consistently inspires. She helps everyone stay in form and cracks the whip if she sees you slacking but dose it all in a lovely comedic manner. If you are a beginner like my Mother that I brought to class she really takes her time to makes sure you are comfortable and can improvise for any injuries. Thanks Anna!!!! read more

I have been taking bar method zoom classes during Safer at Home, and this is still a great workout. A teacher gives instruction and spots form in one window, and another person is the "sample" person to follow. Great format for online! read more

First, Bar Method Pasadena has outstanding instructors/staff: Liz, Anna, Mason, Christopher, Amber, Kristina, Emily, and Nick -- THANK YOU ! A gem of gems -Bar Method Pasadena is located in beautiful old town Pasadena, upstairs inside a gorgeous historic brick building, yet modern, and clean inside. Has a great 'feel'. Easy parking. Bar Method gives a beautiful, lean, toned body. Classes are fast-paced and over before you know it. There is nothing I've ever tried that works as well. I love Bar Method Pasadena ! read more

Great workout for muscles, didnt know My body was capable of moving in certain ways. Definitely sore the next day

I am not someone who has ever enjoyed working out. Gyms make me self-conscious and uncomfortable, and other classes have never been my style. Bar Method changed all of that. The classes hit all of your muscle groups, and with nice stretches throughout. I had to stop going for a while, because the in-person classes are hard to fit around my work schedule. But now that they not only have Zoom classes, but provide a link that's usable for 24 hours, I can fit classes around my schedule and availability. I am loving it, and just a few weeks in am starting to see changes in my body. Liz, Anna, Theresa, Thomas and Mason are all fantastic! I hope they keep the Zoom classes with link even once they are able to physically open back up! read more