Review: Beyond Barre | NYC

Beyond Barre | NYCClass: Beyond Barre
Length: 55 mins
Cost:  $20 drop in or $99 for 1 month unlimited (new client special)
Studio: New York Sports Club | UES, NYC
Instructor: Jenna
What to expect: Beyond Barre seems like just another ballet-inspired exercise program, but what makes it unique is that it mindfully integrates cardio. The brainchild of two pilates instructors, Colleen Ketchum and Michelle DuVall. It is a challenging full-body workout yet welcoming for all fitness levels given its easily modified nature. Founded in Warwick, New York, classes are now being offered at select New York Sports Clubs in the metropolitan area. Note: Ballet slippers not provided. Bring your own or wear socks.

Our take: Having spent so much time working out in boutique yoga and fitness studios, it was startling to be in a gym environment again. Thankfully, Studio 2 turned out to be a Beyond Barre haven equipped with the many required props—the ballet barre, GlideBoards, 2 lb. free weights, and balls. If I had been overwhelmed, the easy instruction quickly eliminated my too-many-props worries. The class was organized thoughtfully, paying close attention to distinct muscle groups and using repetitious movements to target them. After a few rounds of stretches and jumping jacks, we moved to free weights and arm exercises, followed by a heart-pumping sequence on the GlideBoard, legwork at the barre, and an abdominal series. It felt somewhat like an old school aerobic class, making the upbeat mix of oldies all that more appropriate. Most importantly though, the class was fun. I spent many moments laughing at myself, and although I rarely felt overly fatigued, just a few hours later, my body was already sore.

difficulty:  (3) atmosphere: (2) likely to return:(4)

Reviewed by Danielle E. Alvarez, an NYC based journalist who channels her healthier self on a daily basis.