frequently asked questions
1. What is the difference between Pure Barre and other ballet barre methods?

All the barre techniques are different and there is one for everyone. PB is intense, extremely athletic and moves at a good pace- it is not cardio, there is no jumping and our range of motion is small and controlled but we keep our heart rates up and keep the flow going. PB is also very musically driven and we are constantly changing our choreography and positions.
PB Company wide also has a strong culture of being welcoming and positive to everyone who passes through our doors. We believe exercise should be fun and that every body can do Pure Barre. We have an amazing team from corporate to our franchisees and teachers- we all love Pure Barre!


2. What is the difference between Pure Barre and other group fitness classes?

In PB, we keep our classes small to ensure each clients receives personal attention and hands-on corrections. It's like getting a private for a group price! Our teachers are trained in the technique but they are also trained in how to actually be a great teacher so you can get the best workout possible.


3. Is ballet experience required? Do you have a beginner level class?

As long as you can hold on to the ballet barre you can do PB - no dance experience is required. All classes are the same level as the technique was designed this way. The positions and movements are basic - it's how deep you work in them that makes the difference. Most locations offer a "Breaking Down the Barre" class for free a couple times per month so you can work on perfecting your understanding of the positions.


4. Do you only do Pure Barre or do you still need to do cardio?

Your heart rate will go up and down but whether you need to do cardio in addition to PB really depends on youevery body is different. We suggest trying doing only PB for a month 4-5 times per week and see what happens/ how you are feeling.


5. Will you lose weight doing Pure Barre?

You will burn calories and gain lean muscle while doing Pure Barre so you can lose weight - it really depends on how often you are coming and what you are eating!


6. How many times per week should I be taking class and can I take it 2 days in a row?

PB is designed so you can do it every day and many of us do just that! As with any exercise, the more you do it, the better the results. 3-4 times per week is ideal.


7. I am one of those people that bulk up - will my thighs get bigger?

The beauty of PB is that you won't bulk up. Almost all of the exercises we do utilize your own body weight rather than a heavy weight and are followed by a stretch so you will achieve long, lean muscle mass. You may feel your thighs burning and things may fit differently but that is your body gaining definition and changing shape - the goal is to lift everything up and in!


8. Why is my body shaking?

When your body shakes it's your muscles fatiguing and that is a good thing! Your goal is to have the muscle group we are targeting during a specific section of class pretty shaky every time.


9. Why do I feel my standing leg in seat work?

Seat work is a weight-bearing exercise meaning your supporting/standing leg does a good amount of work. This is not a bad thing as it strengthens the hip as well as works to taper it in on the standing side. However, the way to focus more on the working leg in seat section is to shift your weight to the instep of the standing leg so your weight is transferred more to the center of your body rather than sitting in your standing hip. In time, your standing leg will become stronger and it will be easier to fire from the working leg instead.


10. Why do I have to wear socks and keeps my legs covered?

We keep our bodies covered to keep our muscles warm - you will see faster improvements in your flexibility this way - think of the difference when you pull on a rubber band that is cold verses warm. The stickie socks also help you from sliding on the carpet and allow the proper muscles to work instead of other ones clenching up in fear of slipping.


11. How do I assemble the at-home door barre