20 Mar 2015

Fitness:

Where to Take a Barre Class on the Hill

It’s finally spring (!!!!), so (after today’s little snow storm) now you can come out of hibernation and start working on that beach body. What better way to do that than by trying a class that might be new to you? It’s called barre, and the Hill is full of classes.

No, barre class does not involve making drinks – it’s a strengthening form of exercise that uses postures based on ballet, yoga and pilates. Classes use isometric, small movements at high-reps to work those little muscles you didn’t even know you had. Don’t worry, no dance experience is required!

Barre was founded in the 60’s by a modern dancer, Lotte Berk, who injured herself and needed rehabilitation. Through her physical therapy work and her knowledge of dance she developed barre – and it only continues to grow in popularity.

On the Hill you have several options:

Pure Barre (407 8th St SE)

Image by Pure Barre

Image by Pure Barre

Pure Barre is a large chain across the U.S; studios are often found in college towns and big cities. There are three locations in D.C. – Dupont Circle, Cathedral Heights and Capitol Hill. The location on the Hill is right off of the Eastern Market Metro on Barracks Row, making it easy to get to, and easy to get a drink after!

I was able to take a class with the studio’s manager, Sydney. I’ve taken several barre classes before, and I’ve found that the teacher really makes a difference in the type of workout you get. Sydney’s class was fast paced, difficult and very structured. She walked around for the entire class making sure you were getting the most out of your workout, focusing on those of us who were new. It seemed like a lot of girls in the class come often and know the routine.

Many of the students at Pure Barre work on the Hill, and the studio adjusts its schedule based on the congressional schedule. They also take advantage of being on Barracks Row and organize post-class brunches and wine nights – many students make friends and come for the community feel.

Individual classes are $27, and new students can purchase an unlimited month of classes for $125.

Biker Barre (738 7th St SE)

Image by Biker Barre

Image by Biker Barre

Just down the street, Biker Barre offers two different types of barre classes in addition to spin classes. They have 60-minute open barre and 45-minute mini barre, a quicker version that’s better for the intermediate level. However, their barre instructors are trained to work with all levels, and their classes are filled with newbies as well as experienced barre students. Many students “do a double” and follow up a great spin/cardio workout with the strength and toning of barre.

I’ve done a few barre classes and several spin classes at Biker Barre before, but I caught up with Jane, one of the owners, about what the studio has to offer those of us on the Hill. Jane moved here in 2000 to work on campaigns and knew she wanted to open a studio with Capitol Hill and the Washington lifestyle in mind. The owners time their classes for people who work and live on the Hill, and strive to make the studio part of the community. On the weekends they often have mimosas and everyone stays and chats after class.

“It’s a place you can incorporate in your life, and leave feeling great,” Jane told me.

Biker Barre offers a buy one, get one free special for new students, and a military and student discount for classes and packages.

I also saw that Results, The Gym (315 G St SE) offers barre classes several times a week. I challenge everyone to try a new fitness activity this spring!

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One response to “Where to Take a Barre Class on the Hill”

  1. Jordan Slopey says:

    Barre3 will be opening a studio near Union Station this summer and are offering free community classes right now. KQ will be the studio manager and you can find out more on barre3.com

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