Last week Pure Barre (Alexandria) hosted my Moms Run This Town group for a free, private class. I had heard about Pure Barre classes and wasn’t sure I would like it, but I will try almost any new exercise program once–especially for free. 😉 Here’s what I thought about my first Pure Barre workout.
We arrived a few minutes early wearing tank tops and capris and ready to workout in socks or bare feet. (As a group of runners, we have surprisingly well-manicured toes!) We collected light weights, a small ball, and a resistance band, and got ready to “tuck.”
The instructor explained that the Pure Barre technique focuses on small, isometric movements, but when they are done correctly you will feel the burn! As explained on the Pure Barre (Alexandria) website:
In just 55 minutes, you will achieve a total body workout targeted at the areas of the body women struggle with most: seat, hips, thighs, abs, and arms. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve a long, lean, and strong physique.
I was surprised that they were going to lead us through a full 55-minute class (could I handle it?) and even more surprised at how quickly it went. Yes, there were times when I wondered how many more times we would have to (try to) do a certain move, but usually a few seconds later the instructor was counting down our last 10 reps. It helped that the instructors were motivating (but not over-bearing) and that there was fast-paced music to keep us going.
So, what did I think? Honestly, I didn’t like Pure Barre any more than I thought I would, which isn’t very much. On the other hand, a lot of the women in our group loved it and signed up for a package of classes right away. Since it took me a long time to come around to yoga, it’s possible that Pure Barre could grow on me, but right now I’ve got too many other fitness activities I’m enjoying doing!
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Sorry you didn’t like it..it is definitely harder than any other cross training for the fact that you actually need to really focus on keeping your core tight. It’s definitely hard work!
It’s just not for me, but like I said, it took a while for yoga to grow on me too.
I haven’t tried barre class at a boutique yet – just at my gym. I’ll prob try it if the barre studios offer a freebie since I already have a spin package outside my gym.
Yeah, all these special studio classes can get expensive, and it’s so hard to fit it all in.
I have one pair of under armour socks that I love the most.
I kind of had the same reaction that you did. Lots of moms loved it and signed up right away. I need a little more cardio and sweating on my non running days.
Exactly! These days it takes discipline to even do my usual weights routine, which I generally like!
So…I went to my first barre class at Pure Barre Fairfax and left in tears (ok, I waited till I got to my car–but then, wow.) Apart from it being hard, I injured myself because I was constantly straining to watch the instructor for the correct form. Since then, I switched to taking barre classes at my pilates studio –with my favorite pilates instructor who knows my body and my hip issues and is able to give me subtle cues to help me not injure myself. It still is not my favorite workout, but I do feel like it is a good form of strength training for my legs especially.
Oh gosh! This is the type of program where the instructor can make such a big difference. They had two for our class – one main instructor and one who walked around and helped adjust form.
I haven’t tried a barre class (yet), but I’ve been tempted a bit. There are at least 3 different studios with different styles within walking distance of my home, so I figured I’ve got to get there at some point. Nice to hear about your experience.
I’ve never been to a barre class but I have a Cathe Frederick barre DVD – I like it but it is hard!
I tried barre last night and I am still gathering my thoughts about it. I didn’t dislike it but… but… but… I don’t know… it’s different. My calves were burning and I took it right after a zumba class so I thought it would be easy; it wasn’t. It’s definitely not for everybody but it is a full body workout just FYI.
Yes, I’m sure it can be effective, especially if you use good form and stick with it!
I usually wear Injinji or Balega socks but my current choice for compression is Swiftwick. I’d love to give PRO Compression a try.
I do, right now I am loving Balega, but I switch from time to time, when I find a pair I love I buy at least 6 of them so I don’t have to worry about it for a long time:)
So glad to hear that I’m not the only one!
I did a class last year and while I certainly did ‘feel the burn’, I didn’t enjoy the class at all. It always surprises me to hear that people love pure barre and do 3 or 4 classes a week. I just know that that approach wouldn’t get me the muscled physique I want 🙂
I used to take Barre3 classes multiple times a week when I lived near a studio, and I miss it! It took me a few classes to fall in love honestly, but I did tone up and thought that it helped my running improve a lot! I went to as many free classes as possible before buying a package – they should offer free classes when they hire new instructors!
I love my Pro Compression and Balegas!
there is one soooo close to me.
and yet? IVE AVOIDED IT SO FAR 🙂
for now…
Pure barre is not for everyone! I am used to bigger movements so I can cheat and watch the person next to me. I had to pay attention! YIKES! The class works though so Kudos to you for trying it!
I’ve never tried a Pure Barre class. I’ve been taking a Pilates Barre class that I love! I wonder what the differences are between the two?
Thorlos running socks I like
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