I have all sorts of workout DVDs but I always love the ballet themed workouts since they really pack a punch. I purchased The Bar Method's Beginner Workout on DVD several years ago and gave it a try. I loved that it was only 35 minutes from beginning to end so I could fit in the workout daily. The workout itself was very effective and left me sore in a good way the next day. It's always nice when a workout leaves you sore so you know that it is actually working! I liked that this was not high impact so there was no bouncing around or anything but it was still fast paced enough to get my heart rate up. I didn't particularly care for the instructor's rather rough instructions. He was borderline rude instead of motivating. After I figured out what I was supposed to do I ended up muting him and just listing to music instead. Overall, this is a good, unique workout and worth a try if you are looking for something more dancer based.

capers01

Vernon Rockville, CT

Im sorry ladies, Ive take this class is really just another gimmick!!! Ive been a personal trainer for over 20 years now and have trained a wide variety of client Pro athlete, Playboy model, house wife,businessman..you name it. People are always looking for the next best thing.......of course you are sore its something thats new to your body. After awhile it will become the bore method....You need resistence to get that real toning!!!! And if you think you are burning fat. again you are wasting your time. If you want to do it 1 in awhile to spice things up go ahead but really dont rely on it for real gains there are much better choices!!! I would go with pilates if you want to stay away from the weights. I have a quick story...a friend of mine was a Bar method teacher and she had a video shot coming up for her new video on bar method! She need to get inshpae fast so she called me and asked me to train her....I laughed and said are you serious why not use your bar method....she laughed and said " i need quick results" .............I rest my case!!!!!!

dijon44

Sea Cliff, NY

I've been a loyal customer of the Bar Method now for close to a year, and I have seen my body completely transform.  I've tried the other core classes, as well as running as much as I possibly can, and nothing came close to what the Bar Method has done for me.  I have muscle in places I didn't even know existed!  My abs, thighs, glutes, and upper body have become more sculpted, and I have lost a ton of body fat.  The class itself is paced to up tempo music while enthusiastic, helpful instructors guide you through the entire hour.  I never feel as though I have to be completely decked out in Lulu or come in with a face full of make up either (like other Chicagoland gyms).  The focus here is strictly on the workout with a "come as you are" attitude that has made me a loyal customer.  I cannot say enough great things about the Bar Method!

Baimurph

Chicago, IL

I took my first Bar Method class this past Tuesday night and I can still feel the burn 36 hours later.  The class promotes: "fat burning format of interval training, the muscle shaping technique of isometrics, the elongating principles of dance conditioning, and the science of physical therapy".  I think its yogalaties meats Jane Fonda.  The studio was incredibly clean and well managed with clean showers and a plethora of lockers with keys (so nice I hate having to bring my own lock).  The studio is carpeted so you have to wear socks for the workout.  They play upbeat music as you dive into stretch and strength training movies that are small in actual movement but big on results (did I mention I'm still sore).  The hour long class goes fast and the instructor was incredibly helpful to me as a first timer. While I tend to gravitate more toward 'boot camp style' workouts rather than a more traditional female only exercise class, I would do class again.      

aimeesh

Chicago, IL

The Bar Method on Sheffield off of Belmont is the most amazing workout ever! The hour long workout is aimed and toning your core with the use of ballet, pilates and isometrics. In the first week I felt as if I were walking taller and feeling trimmer. I definitely feel and see the difference!

happymom

Chicago, IL