Smarties, the CSP team recently came across this blog post written by Carrie Dorr, Founder & Chief Barre Officer on the Pure Barre website and we thought it was too good not to share. You know we love to add a personal twist! Smarty Jenni and Smarty Liz chime in with their personal take on Carrie Dorr’s myth-busting, fact finding mission. You will see – you are not alone in your thoughts and misconceptions about Pure Barre. They, too, needed someone to set the story straight and they have never looked back!
We think the timing of this post couldn’t be more perfect because PURE BARRE SOUTHPARK is hosting an OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY with FREE CLASSES and PURE BARRE MYERS PARK is running an amazing SPECIAL for new clients: 2 WEEKS UNLIMITED classes for $49. So, read over this article, put on some leggings and get on over to a Pure Barre and see what all the fuss is about!
It’s time for a little Mythbusting, Pure Barre-style. Since launching Pure Barre almost two decades ago, I’ve heard all kinds of myths about what goes on in the studio. Some are true, some are false. Some are a little bit in-between. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common Pure Barre myths and misconceptions, and the cold, honest truth about what really goes down in class.
1. I can’t do Pure Barre because I was never a dancer.
False. Can you work hard? Can you hold on to a ballet barre? If the answer to both of those questions is “Yes,” you can do Pure Barre. No dance experience is required — in fact, most of our clients come to us with no dance background at all.
Smarty Jenni: Yep, this was me. I was convinced I needed a dance background. I even tried to get out of going to my first class using that excuse. TOTALLY NOT THE CASE and I am proof of that. Uncoordinated is my middle name. I didn’t even make the “walk on” cheerleading team in high school.
Smarty Liz: Yes, so me. This sporty girl was never a dancer, but totally love Pure Barre because the movements are small and controlled. I can keep up just fine. Pure Barre actually makes me feel more graceful even though if you saw me in class, I am sure you’d disagree!
2. Everyone wears socks with sticky things.
True. Our Pure Barre Sticky Socks help you to keep from sliding out of positions like planks and pushups and enable you to work the right muscles in each exercise.
Smarty Jenni: Trust me, the socks help you stay in place…and the amazing core muscles you develop the more you go to Pure Barre. As time goes on, your sticky socks become more of a fashion statement. Watch out – when there is a new style of socks to hit the shelves – they sell out super quick!
Smarty Liz: Yes. The socks help immensely and they’re super cute. Some even have bling on them now.
3. The teacher doesn’t do the class with us.
True. Pure Barre teachers are trained to teach rather than instruct. Big difference. They will show positions and some movements, but they are there to help you get YOUR best workout and not work out themselves.
Smarty Jenni: All I can say is THANK GOODNESS! I need the amazing instructors watching out to make sure I am in the correct position or to push me a little bit harder. My favorite classes are when the instructor lifts my leg a little higher.
Smarty Liz: This was huge for me. Other classes I’d taken made me feel like the instructor cared more about her workout than mine. This is not the case at Pure Barre. Each instructor takes time to ensure each client is in the correct form and at times pushing me to do more than I ever thought I could.
4. Everyone seems like they have memorized the program and know what they are doing… Every class starts with this marching thing.
Somewhat false, somewhat true. Each Pure Barre Classic class starts with a warm-up where we “march” (aka alternating knee lifts). It’s a way to organize the body and bring focus in to the room. But it doesn’t mean everyone has memorized the program, it’s just how we kick off the class.
Smarty Jenni: So true. Start off with an easy movement to get everyone focused. I think this is brilliant.
Smarty Liz: Sometimes. The warm ups are all similar which is good, but the workouts change often making the routine new for everyone! Newbies aren’t the only ones who stumble from time to time. I go all the time and on some tired days I am sure it looks like I am NEW to Pure Barre.
5. I’m too old for this.
False. The beauty of Pure Barre is that there is no age limit — in fact, it’s one of the most effective ways to work out well into your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond! Pure Barre is high-intensity but low-impact, creating strength while minimizing the force on your bones and joints. A smart choice for any age.
Smarty Jenni: This is the workout I will be doing for the rest of my life. I am in my mid-40’s and LOVE IT!
Smarty Liz: No way! There are ladies of all ages in my classes and sometimes the strongest ones are the older ones. They put me to shame. What I love about Pure Barre is the small, controlled movements are good for everyone. Also, if you’re not able to do a position, modifications are always encouraged.
6. Everybody is looking at me.
False. During your Pure Barre class, you may feel as though people are looking at you, since the room is smaller with a mirrored wall. But your classmates are really just focused on what they’re doing and trying to get the most out of their workout. I actually close my eyes for a good portion of the class so I can really get in to the zone!
Smarty Jenni: Another thing that held me back… Boy was I wrong. Nobody is paying attention to you. The workout requires such a mind body connection that each person is completely focused on their own form and gritting their teeth until the move changes.
Smarty Liz: Not true! I am barely breathing sometimes so there truly is no time to look around. I love the fast pace of the class, moving from one routine to another. It also helps me not get bored. No time for that. There also is something about the relaxed Pure Barre atmosphere that always has made me feel comfortable which is why I have been going for 8 years!
7. I need to lose 10 pounds before I can try it.
False. Pure Barre welcomes all shapes and sizes – we are here to help you reach your personal goals. The only way to make that happen is to get in there!
Smarty Jenni: Again, this was me. Smarty Jen P. would not have it… she dragged me into my first Pure Barre. I was surprised at the different women that attended classes – all ages, all sizes and levels of flexibility.
Smarty Liz: Just go. Your body and your mind will thank you. Going to Pure Barre truly makes me stronger all the time and that regardless of my weight gives me more confidence.
8. Everyone’s legs and abdomens are covered.
True. You won’t see any shorts or crop tops in a Pure Barre class. We keep our legs and abdomens covered to keep warmth in the body, which increases flexibility and range of motion.
Smarty Jenni: Love this rule!
Smarty Liz: Love this too!!!
9. I’m a runner … this kind of workout isn’t for me.
False. Pure Barre can be a great complement to your running regimen. It delivers strength and flexibility, helping to prevent potential running injuries.
Smarty Jenni: I think Pure Barre is the perfect compliment to any workout regimen you may follow. For me, Pure Barre is my primary regimen. Especially since they have added the Empower classes. No need to go elsewhere for cardio!
Smarty Liz:I like to do other things too, but the toning at Pure Barre is like no other.
10. I thought I was in shape — but after that Pure Barre class I don’t think I am.
False. Pure Barre is a different way of working out and – let’s be honest – it’s intense. But struggling certainly doesn’t mean you’re out of shape. Even professional athletes are challenged with our workout. As with anything, there is a learning curve. Give yourself 10 classes over the course of a few weeks and you’ll be amazed how quickly you become stronger. Most importantly, give yourself some grace and have fun!
Smarty Jenni: I have worked out at Pure Barre on an average of 6 days a week for a year. I always feel like I am out of shape after a work out. That is a positive. When things get too easy your body is no longer challenged and you become bored.
Smarty Liz: Honestly, I say “that class was SO HARD” about every day. You’re not alone if you go to Pure Barre and think it is hard. Just go back!
PURE BARRE SOUTHPARK
OPEN HOUSE
Smarties, Have you been wanting to try a Pure Barre class? Now is your chance! Pure Barre Southpark is hosting an open house this SATURDAY (May 19th): “Join us for a morning of FREE classes, shopping, and socializing at the studio! Grab a friend and come see what Pure Barre is all about!
Open House Class Schedule: 8:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am(empower), and 11:30am!
Click here for email to reserve your spot.
PURE BARRE MYERS PARK/CHARLOTTE
Smarties, Pure Barre Myers Park is running an amazing special for new clients – 2 weeks unlimited classes for $49. * Also be on the lookout for a June Challenge.
PURE BARRE BALLANTYNE
The ladies at PB Ballantyne are feeling #empowered as they are on the tail end of a super hard challenge!
* Pure Barre Ballantyne is always running specials. Shoot them an email, check their Facebook page or give them a call.
Smarties, always remember all three locations offer new clients their first week free!
Locations:
Pure Barre Ballantyne
8430 Rea Road #120
Charlotte, NC 28277
(704) 502-5888
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Pure Barre Charlotte
603 Providence Road
Charlotte, NC 28207
(980) 329-4640
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Pure Barre Southpark
6401 Morrison Blvd Suite 7A
Charlotte, NC 28211
(704) 364-2888
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