Fits Do Fitness Class Reviews: Pure Barre

By Jessie

Back in October, I posted a short post to share my excitement with regards to a rumor that a Pure Barre was opening soon in Minneapolis (read about it here).

And, the time for that opening finally came. The studio had their "soft" opening this week and they offered free classes all week!

I signed up with a few run club girls for a 6 am class this past Friday. After my okay experience at Barre Bliss (read about it here), I was ready for a good butt-kicking. Did I get it?

Well, Pure Barre follows a very different format than Align or Barre Bliss. There is no cardio portion, and the moves are even more concentrated. You do use a small fitness ball and very light weights:

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My first clue that this class was different than the ones at Align/Barre Bliss was the carpeted floors. A few other clues came when I called ahead to see if the studio had showers, which they don't. The instructor informed me that you don't really get that sweaty, and also reminded me to wear socks. Definitely different than the other classes I mentioned.

I don't really know how to describe the moves we did on the mat, but there was a ton of core work and my legs were definitely burning during the work at the barre. But, I didn't get too sweaty. However, I was pretty sore on Saturday (probably not the best idea before a 10 mile race).

Here's how Pure Barre explains their technique:
Pure Barre is a total body workout that lifts your seat, tones your thighs and burns fat in record-breaking time. Utilizing the ballet barre to perform small isometric movements set to fantastic music, Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective, yet safest way to change your body. Students see results in just 10 classes. Pure Barre is intelligent exercise. The technique protects your joints as it does not involve any bouncing or jumping. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretching section in order to create long, lean muscle without bulk. The workout launches a full blown attack on the areas of the body all women struggle with: abs, hips, seat and arms. It defies gravity by tapering everything in and lifting it up. The workout requires such focus that you block "life" out for the hour allowing you to obtain the mental benefits achieved in yoga or meditation. A transformed body and a clear head in just one hour- it doesn't get much better than this.

A few friends have mentioned that they liked the class too, but thought the instructor didn't really guide or explain the moves very well.  Sometimes I felt as though I was doing the moves incorrectly, but there wasn't a ton of feedback or adjustments offered.

I definitely am interested in doing more of these classes, however, the caveat is that the studio is quite pricey. A single class is $22. They offer a month unlimited for new students for $99, but after that an unlimited membership is over $200. A hefty price to pay in my mind!

Another option that might "fit the bill" is to purchase the DVD's that they offer online. No equipment necessary!