Combining elements of ballet, Pilates, yoga, and strength training, barre is a low-impact workout that continues to gain popularity, including with Life Time members.
“We offer four different formats of barre, and I love the variety,” says Lillian Davis (@lillian.k.davis), studio leader at Life Time in Mason, Ohio. “No matter which format you choose, the class challenges you to slow down and push through the discomfort of working those smaller muscles using only light weights or your bodyweight.”
The high reps of precise isometric movements that are completed on and off the barre engage muscles in a way that other strength classes or endeavors can’t.
If you’re new to barre, Davis suggests trying out each of Life Time’s barre formats at least once.
“Sampling each version allows you to figure out which format you truly like the best,” she says. “And even after that, if possible, I recommend incorporating all four classes for a well-rounded routine. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and the effectiveness of any workout depends on your fitness goals and health considerations.”
Here, we’re breaking down each Life Time barre class to help you figure out which ones best fit your goals and preferences.
LIFE BARRE Classic
Experience the elegance of ballet fused with power and strength.
What to expect: Practice the precision, control, and elegance of a classical ballet class and the power and strength of barre fitness. From pliés and arabesques to squats and shoulder presses, this on-and-off-the-barre class uses a variety of props and tools to challenge the strength, flexibility, stamina, and mobility of your entire body.
Equipment: Floor-mounted barre, dumbbells, resistance bands, gliding discs, Pilates ball
Length: 30 or 45 minutes
LIFE BARRE Strength
Align strength and grace for a low-impact resistance-training workout.
What to expect: LIFE BARRE Strength is a low-impact experience in which you’ll focus on enhancing your muscular definition using dumbbells and resistance bands on and off the barre. You’ll also flex the mind-body connection as you move from working major muscles to smaller ones with intentional isometric movements.
Equipment: Floor-mounted barre, dumbbells, resistance bands, gliding discs, Pilates ball, weighted bar
Length: 45 or 60 minutes
LIFE BARRE Core
Tone, sculpt, and strengthen your core.
What to expect: This class combines graceful ballet-inspired sequences with challenging core exercises. Pulling from ballet, yoga and Pilates, each class targets your core muscles, as well as your glutes and lower back, which impact core stability. This low-impact workout can help improve your posture and balance via movements that are both on and off the barre.
Equipment: Floor-mounted barre, dumbbells, resistance bands, gliding discs, Pilates ball
Length: 30 or 45 minutes
LIFE BARRE Fusion
Fuse cardio, strength, balance, and mobility exercises for a full-body barre experience.
What to expect: This class combines cardio, strength, balance, and mobility exercises that are choreographed for both on and off the barre. It’s an all-in-one approach that’s designed to work your entire body as well as help you better connect with it through mindful, purposeful movement. Each class features a variety of props to amplify the muscle burn.
Equipment: Floor-mounted barre, dumbbells, resistance bands, gliding discs, Pilates ball, weighted bar
Length: 45 or 60 minutes
Explore all the barre class options at your club — as well as the schedule for live stream classes — on the Life Time app.
