The SportsBarn has added an affiliate business, Barre One.
Managing Partner David Brock said, “Several staff members recommended the addition of barre classes, based on their experience with barre in other cities. The idea fit so well with our ongoing expansion of fitness options that we actually built a studio and created Barre One.”
He added, “Our teachers are very experienced fitness professionals who truly enjoy teaching this method. Barre One is a fantastic addition to our already comprehensive fitness program.”
The studio, which opened Dec. 16, 2013, is adjacent to the downtown center.
Studio Manager Jimmie White said, “Barre One classes are based on the BarreAmped method and use a neutral spinal alignment.
“Before I was introduced to barre, I thought, ‘It can’t really be that tough.' Four minutes into it, I realized how tough it could be! Very quickly, within 10 classes, you will see visible changes in the thighs and seat."
All barre classes trace their roots to Lotte Berk, who in the late ’30s created an exercise method combining dance, Pilates and yoga techniques. Through the years, this evolved into various forms of barre. Small, precise, but intense movements are used to sculpt and lengthen the body. The system is low-impact, so there is little risk of injury.
From Foundation (for those new to barre or just starting a fitness program), to Fire (barre work combined with cardio intervals), Barre One offers classes for all levels. In an average, 55-minute class, the instructor takes students through a series of arm exercises, seat and thigh work, in addition to “under the barre” work, stretching and more.
Jimmie White notes, “Another thing I really like about barre is that, like yoga and Pilates, you can participate at any age and ability. We strive to be open and accessible to everyone.”
To that end, Barre One offers free childcare through the downtown SportsBarn.
Night class sizes range between 15 and 20 people, with day classes slightly smaller. Many SportsBarn members combine barre classes with other forms of fitness. Members can add unlimited Barre One classes for an additional $50 per month, but membership is not required. Non-members receive unlimited classes during their first month for $75, and after that for $99 per month.The first class is free for everyone.