I discovered Pure Barre in September and let me tell you, I’m hooked. It’s addicting. Whatever genius workout scientist figured out this ballet inspired technique, props to them. But when I tell people I do Pure Barre, they always respond with “What’s the difference between Pure Barre and Cardio, Bar Method, insert another type of barre class?” And honestly, I never knew the answer to this. So with that in mind, I decided to break down the Barre classes offered in Orange County to find out, well, what is the difference? Here’s what I discovered:
The Class: Pure Barre is my home away from home. The class itself focuses entirely on form and technique. If you’re looking for an authentic barre class, this is the studio for you. Throughout the hour-long class, the instructors walk around and make adjustments to your body to ensure the movements you are making are tiny so they sculpt your body in the way it’s intended to. It takes a couple of classes to master the technique (a whole month for me) but once you have the lingo down, you will immediately start feeling your body change.
The Cost: $23 a class; prices change depending on what package you buy.
The Class: Cardio Barre is just what it sounds like, Barre with more cardio to it. Instead of focusing on the small movements, this barre class opens with stretching and squats at the barre, but then moves into a more aerobic type exercise, think high kicks and torso twists.
The Cost:$17 a class; prices change depending on what package you buy.
The Class: Bar Method is very similar to Pure Barre, but it moves at a slower pace. Throughout the class, the teachers are very aware of your small movements, and correct your form if need be. This class also uses fewer props than most – the teachers really want to focus on making you feel the burn!
The Cost: $20-30 a class depending on the studio; prices change depending on what package you buy.
The Class: Their Barre (HIIT) class is high energy, and only 30-minutes. While the class is still ballet inspired, it functions more like a boot camp class than dance class.
The Cost: $20 a class, prices change depending on what package you buy.