We know trying new things often requires bravery (and sometimes a little nudge!). Whether you’re just beginning your barre fitness journey or are a fitness enthusiast, know The Barre Code is for everybody and every BODY! We want to provide you with the information you need to feel prepared for first visit. You’ve got nothing to lose, and everything to gain, so let’s dive in! (If you’re looking for more information about the key differences between our core class formats – Barre, Bootcamp, and Brawl® – click here.)
WHY THE BARRE CODE?
The Barre Code was founded in 2010 by two friends looking for a barre fitness experience centered around empowerment, self-love, a non-judgmental space, and a strong community. These core values are still at the heart of what we do today. Everyone at the studio – from the front desk staff to your instructor, to fellow barre babes – will be there to welcome and empower you. We want to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible stepping into the studio for the first time (and every time). We never idolize slimming shapes or shrinking sizes and are truly a safe space for every BODY to move and grow.
PRE-CLASS
Please arrive to the studio 10-15 minutes ahead of class start time so our team can show you around and tell you what to expect in class. We will also share which props you need for class and get you set up at your assigned studio spot. Socks are required for every class. (Please contact your local studio to determine their policy on sneakers in class.) Sticky socks are a plus and are available for purchase, but any pair of socks will work. Our studio floors are made from the same material you’d find on the insoles of your sneakers, which makes for a low-impact in-studio experience. Working out in socks also allows you to build strength in the main muscles of your feet in ways you cannot accomplish when wearing shoes. Finally, we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Personal lockers are available for you to safely lock and store your items during class.
Before class starts, your instructor will ask you whether you are currently experiencing any limitations or injuries that could impact your ability to move during class, or if you are pre-natal or post-partum. It’s your instructor’s job (and pleasure) to guide you to appropriate modifications. Please share as much as you feel comfortable to guarantee a positive, efficient, and effective experience. All instructors across #BarreCodeNation are trained to provide modifications and advancements in every class, so if you have any questions, ask away! We empower our clients to make personal choices about how to conquer each class. Some days that means adding challenges, and other days it looks like taking modifications.
DURING CLASS
During class, carefully listen to your instructor’s commentary, cues, and coaching. The instructor will lead you through an immersive, fun, and challenging experience, including a quick warmup, strength and/or cardio work, and a cool down/stretch. During class, once you are safely setup in each position the instructor will call out cues to help you understand where the work is coming from, where you should feel the activation, how you can modify or advance the movements, and help you establish a strong mind/body connection. Your instructor will provide hands-on corrections when necessary to improve your technique and posture for optimal results (if you prefer no hands-on corrections, please share this with your instructor before class).
Keep in mind, it is natural during your first class to not fully grasp everything the instructor says. You’re still learning the vocabulary and working to build mind-body awareness, which takes time. We recommend looking at the Barre Code babes around you to get a good visual of each position and movement pattern while the instructor is walking around and verbally cueing class – but do your best not to compare yourself with anyone else. We are all on different fitness journeys with unique goals. When learning something new, there are bound to be moments of confusion and new sensations. Lean into the experience and trust the process and the team around you – and don’t forget to breathe!
AFTER CLASS
Once class is over, your instructor will check-in with you. This is a great time to ask questions about any of the movements you carried out in class. Instructors love questions like this, so don’t be shy! Their job is to empower you to understand your body and how it moves. They will help you grow stronger in both mind and body at the start of your barre fitness journey. Finally, make sure to stop by the front desk on your way out to hear about our new client specials. The front desk staff can also help you sign up for your next class.
Now that you know more about what to expect, we hope you’re as excited to experience The Barre Code as we are to meet you! Click here to find your local studio today.
