The Bar Method

I love this studio. It’s my favorite barre studio in Austin. The workout is great, the instructors are great, the front desk people are great (in a sincere way) and the facility is very nice and clean.
The workout is not much different from other barre studios I’ve been to, but they have their own spin. What this studio does really well is give personalized feedback. Correct form is very important to me and the instructors really make a point to know everyone’s name and give them pointers when needed. Super appreciated.
The workout rooms and «locker room» area are really nice and clean. They have 4 well kept showers that I use when I go there (I hardly ever see anyone else shower there, which makes it easier for me!)
Oh, and parking is abundant. They have tons of parking in a covered lot as its in the bottom of an apartment complex.

The Bar Method is, hands down, the BEST barre class I’ve been to (for reference, I’ve been doing barre for about a year, and have tried a total of about six different studios/​gyms offering barre class around Washington, DC and Austin).
Why The Bar Method is great:
1. The staff and results are consistent across instructors and studios. This company obviously invests a lot into their people, and it shows. You will get a kick-​ass workout that is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time investment, with a side of individualized attention from a trained, friendly, energetic professional instructor. This will be the case wherever and whenever you go to class, given the company’s rigorous quality control.
2. Did I say kick-​ass workout? Because it is – literally. Your butt (and everything else) will be TAXED by the end of class. I’ve never been more toned in my life. In particular, because the exercises are engineered to get results, you don’t waste hours sweating for naught. The Bar Method respects the time you’ve invested in their workout, and the return on that investment will show in your arms, seat, abs, thighs…
3. This is truly a total body workout. My problem areas are the opposite of most people-​I actually like my butt and thighs, but until The Bar Method, I’ve never had the flat, muffin-​top free tummy and sinewy arms I’ve always wanted. I was, in short, a «potato on toothpicks.» No more, thanks to the Bar Method. I’ve seen results in the areas I’ve always struggled with, while also seeing improvement in areas I liked to begin with. How can you beat that?!? (Now if only they could figure out a move that would give you a non-​surgical breast lift… :-))
4. The personalized attention. Some other reviewers have mentioned that they do not like being called out by name in class. I can understand this for sure, but my impression has always been that this comes from a good place of wanting you to learn the exercises and get the most out of class (so you keep coming back – they are a business after all!) If this just doesn’t mesh with your personality type, then Bar Method may not be for you, but if you’re shy, try to embrace it as yet another way barre class is helping you grow and change for the better! (And I, for one, spend class focused on hiding my boob sweat and correcting my own poor form – not looking around judging!)
5. The facilities are excellent. The studio is bright and clean, and there is cold water, as well as lockers and showers. Not all studios have these amenities (and some are just plain dark-​ugh), and it makes a huge difference.
TLDR – Give The Bar Method a try. Your bikini will thank you.

I was really excited to try The Bar Method because I enjoy taking barre classes several times a week at different studios around Austin, and a close friend had been raving about it.
The studio is nice, clean, and well-​equipped; but the carpeted floor threw me off as my other barre studios have clean wood floors. I couldn’t tell exactly how clean the carpet was when my hands and head were down in plank and push-​up positions. When I am new to a studio, I typically like to stay in the back and get my bearings during my first class. However, I was snapped out of my meditative and observant mindset by the instructor calling me out by first name four times in the first few minutes to correct positions when she could have just come over and made a small adjustment. When I looked around, I noticed that others were not in perfect alignment either and looked at the instructor quizzically… I wondered why she was not reading my body language regarding whether or not I was open to being «called out» by first name when it kept surprising me and snapping me out of my focus. Her calling me out by name over her microphone and repeatedly coming over to me from across the room to adjust my body by an inch irritated me so much that I nearly walked out after the first ten minutes. I decided to see it through, but it got to the point where I ended up having to ask her politely to give me a little bit of space. After that, the class went smoothly and she just gave me a few small, subtle adjustments when needed. My suggestion for this instructor would be to kind of glide through the room adjusting everyone (instead of watching from one corner and picking a couple of people to say their first name and an adjustment command) AND pay more attention to reading the body language of studio newcomers regarding how open they are to adjustments. While I absolutely appreciate exercise instructors learning my first name and giving me subtle adjustment tips when needed, this experience was a bit much for me and I think I will be sticking to my other preferred barre studios around Austin for a more laid-​back vibe and an equally kick-​ass workout.
With that said, this was just my personal experience and I definitely found The Bar Method to be a great workout. I recommend it for the classic barre exercises and nice tempo/​intensity — just be prepared for your name to be heard a lot as a newcomer to the studio.

I’ve been doing barre classes at other studios for about a year now and decided to finally check out Bar Method. I have to say I was pretty disappointed. The workout is pretty good, but its the vibe of the studio that I really don’t like. I didn’t feel welcome by the front desk and I got called out throughout the whole class for not having good form. I understand they probably want me to get the best out of my workout, but as I looked around the room there were several other people who weren’t tucking or bending from the waist and so on. Every once in awhile she would correct another person, but I felt like I was getting called out the most. Maybe the instructor only remembered my name, but I was starting to feel a little embarrassed by the middle of the class. The other studios I’ve gone to would go up to you and help fix your posture or call out to the whole class to remind you to tuck or keep your stomach pulled in. They never singled someone out. I’ve been in the studio twice now and had the same experience with two different instructors. I’m not sure if I’ll go back.

I am so happy that I found Bar Method, it has literally changed my life! After having surgery on a herniated disc 7 years ago I was able to get somewhat back in shape although I had gained a lot of weight. This summer after having to stop my personal training, I started having back issues again — spasms and not being able to stand at times. After seeing an orthopedic surgeon to find out what was currently going on with by back, the x-​ray revealed I have almost no room between my L5-​S1. At some point I will need fusion or a replacement disc but until then all I can do is get my muscles stronger to support my body.
After going to physical therapy twice a week for a month, I found Bar Method through a Tidbits Front Row deal. I did a lot of research and liked how it is physical therapy based and the trainers take the time to really correct your form and make sure you are doing the moves properly. My first class was on a Friday evening at 5:30pm and lucked out since there were less than 10 in the class that day. Kelsey was very hands on and was very welcoming — I really appreciated that. I didn’t know what to expect or if I would feel like I didn’t belong but that has never been the case. No matter what shape or size — everyone is super friendly, welcoming and helpful. I even had other girls helping me get set up with my mats that day! The teachers always say, «if we give you corrections, we aren’t calling you out — just making sure you have the proper form»… and it’s so true! You have to be able to appreciate the corrections and not take it personally or this won’t be the right place for you. The workout was challenging and I had to take breaks during the different segments since by stamina was not up to par (I still have to stop sometimes). The next day I had sore muscles I didn’t know existed anymore — which was awesome and addictive! I kept up going to more classes and noticed my muscles getting longer, stronger and leaner. I really thought my abs didn’t exist anymore — but the workouts really reactivate the muscles after just a few workouts. After a month of going from 1 bar method class a week, then 2 a week and up to 3 a week, I was strong enough to stop my physical therapy.
I have barely any issues with my back at this time (as long as I go to class and continue stretch and roll my muscles). I have now been doing Bar Method for just over 2 months and am up to 4 classes a week — soon to be 5 a week. It is awesome that I can get a good, intense workout that actually helps my back condition. Going from barely able to move at times to being stronger, more active, and almost normal physically is a real life saver! I could not have done it without finding Bar Method. I highly recommend it to anyone!

I took my first bar class yesterday, then got blackout drunk that night. I woke up this morning so sore that I was convinced that I must’ve fallen down a flight of stairs.
I’m not kidding.
This class is a lot harder than it sounds, and my instructor did not shy away from making sure I was doing it right. «TUCK!» My muscles, particularly in my back, are screaming right now, which tells me that going regularly will probably yield some incredible results.
Really, I’m just glad that I (probably) didn’t fall down a flight of stairs.

The Bar Method is the ish! I wanna shout it from the rooftops! I have been going since October and it’s like a drug that I can’t get enough of. All the staff is so welcoming and frlendly, they really care and if you become a regular before long you feel like family. This is my hour long escape from everything and I love the «me» time it gives me. The facility is beautiful. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want a perky butt? I do! If you go 4x a week, your body and your man will thank you!

I am an enthusiastic and devoted Bar Method member in San Diego so naturally when I visit other cities, I get my workout on:) Thankfully this past weekend I was in Austin and was able to attend a Bar Method class. The studio was very busy but the girls were so welcoming! Nikki Jensen was super sweet and helpful! The studio was clean and modern, as I expected it would be. Free parking in the garage, as well.
I love that where ever I go — The Bar Method is always very consistent. I took class with Sloan Chouset. How cute is she? Super energetic and knowledgeable which made me feel very much at home! I visit Austin a lot so I will definitely be returning to this studio.
If you haven’t tried Bar Method before and live in the area — you should definitely try this studio! Love! For me, it was like a little piece of Cali while I was on vaca in TX.

I’ve been to three classes within the last 7 days and can honestly say I’m hooked– not only with the workout but the entire experience that goes along with it.
The first class upon check-​in was greeted by an incredibly friendly woman at the desk (later realizing it was Kate my instructor) we had small talk while I finished my paperwork and once finished was given a tour by another awesome employee Nikki. Being in the customer-​service realm myself I really appreciate being shown around to familiarize myself with a new place to feel comfortable and welcome– you guys are great at it, keep it up!
During the class having already made the connection with Kate at the desk, it made her constructive criticisms and corrections super comfortable. When I’m paying for a workout class I want to get what I’m paying for– if you’re embarrassed or dislike being called out in a class I’m sorry, but you aren’t working out hard enough or maybe group sessions aren’t for you. When I’m in pain and getting a good workout I am the only person in the room and appreciate my body position being corrected to ensure a deep workout as well as assure I’m not risking injuring myself from doing something incorrectly.
Second class was with Lori, another great experience after thinking Kate was going to be my favorite person Lori delivered the same, consistent, tough love of a workout– same attention and passion in the class.
Third class today was with Sloan and honestly, when I thought it couldn’t possibly burn, shake, sweat, or want to rest as badly as the first two classes– Sloan KILLED IT. She is the perfect definition of a firecracker personality and I totally relate to that! She’s got high energy, nothing but incredible encouragement and her excitement made me WANT to keep burning and hurting and fighting to finish my reps. I absolutely love every instructor I’ve encountered at this place and can’t get enough of it.
Sloan, I’ll be seeing you again tomorrow morning for the 9:30 class. Lori, Kate, Nikki– later this week! Thank you ladies for an incredible workout experience!!!

After walking out of Kate’s class I could already feel the difference in my body! Such a fun class that gives you an amazing workout! This is by far my favorite bar class!

Friendly, genuine, and well-​trained instructors lead you through a total body workout in one hour! We ALL can find time for that! :)
I have nothing but the best reviews for Austin’s Bar Method studio. I’ve been taking Bar classes for over 10 years in various cities (Chicago, Venice/​Santa Monica, SF, NYC, Boston) prior to coming to The Bar Method’s Austin location.
I recently moved to Austin from Venice Beach and found the Austin Bar staff and instructors to be the best bunch yet! The teachers are knowledgable, energized, and authentic — all while pushing us to the max in a friendly/​encouraging manner.
As a recently certified yoga instructor through YogaWorks, I was also happy to find the Bar staff well-​trained and on-​point with directive cues and alignment to each exercise. Certainly no sloppiness at this studio!
My final comment is the clientele, the Bar community — I have enjoyed meeting new friends through the Austin Bar Method classes. This studio is a vessel for positivity that radiates to each Bar member.

These classes are hard and fun! The instructors here are the best part — so helpful and patient in correcting your posture. I need that motivation to work out with other people, and to keep going through the tough poses, so having personal attention and a great attitude from the instructors helps immensely. I’ve found myself coming 3−4x per week. The studio itself is bright, clean, and inviting with plentiful free parking. I highly recommend this place, so glad I found it!

I originally was drawn to The Bar Method through an on-​line deal. I’m kind of a coupon whore when it comes to working out because it can get expensive when you don’t’ get a deal.
I went for a month to The Bar Method and loved every minute of it. Sure there was a lot of sweat, a lot of internal cursing, a lot of really sore muscles but there was also the 8 pounds I lost (was also eating healthier than normal). I have been to other Barre classes but I find that The Bar Method gives me the best workout in the 60 minutes I am there. The instructors are very helpful and will come over and correct you if you are not doing the exercise correctly. I appreciate this because I want to get the best workout I can, and if I am doing it wrong then I am not working out my muscles.
I strive to be one of those ladies in class that do the class without stopping and have that rockin lean body that I am working for. I have more work to do, but I know The Bar Method is the right place for me to get that body!

I wanted something different than my usual CrossFit, heavy weightlifting workouts. I was definitely intimidated having no dance background or experience in dance classes. Immediately, I was really impressed by how approachable the instructors were and how much time they took with each person to make sure their form was correct. It was one of the hardest workouts I’ve ever done and, after making myself go back a few times, became completely addictive.
Three months after I started I became pregnant. I continued the workouts up until the day before I delivered. I can honestly say that I had a incredibly easy pregnancy. I had no back problems, I had no major issues with discomfort. I delivered quickly and naturally. And only gained 20 pounds with the pregnancy, which was ridiculous because I really like to eat. And, two weeks later, I was back into my pre-​pregnancy clothes. I attribute much of my health and my baby’s health to these classes.

I’ve recently celebrated my one year «Bar-​iversary» and I couldn’t be happier or more inspired! I have a dance studio and often spend my days correcting my students on their form and body alignment. Man, it feels great to have the tables turned and to concentrate on my own body and workout!
I have taken class from all the Bar Method Instructors and truly love each class! The challenge, the shake and the push are the important factors that make each class so addicting! Even after one year, I still shake in each class! I’m still corrected on alignment/​form and encouraged to try a more advanced version of a specific exercise.
My experience at the Bar Method has been amazing! I’m hooked!
Looking forward to the challenges ahead!

I have been to 3 classes and I think this is the best work out ever. I am an ex pilates fan and tried this because I think pilates is way expensive and I can’t find any classes that work with the schedule of someone who has a 8 to 5 job. Apparently all the pilates studios in Austin cater to stay-​at-​home women.
I am currently in the process of upgrading my lifestyle to healthy and working on the 4 year recession stress weight gain I put on between jobs. This is my mental challenge and companion to cardio. I get bored doing the same work out and this makes me feel stretched out and like I am really working out muscles that have been ignored. It makes me more eager to stay on target because I like the challenge of trying to not die at the end of each hour.
I am not a matchy, cute workout clothes kinda gal. I have a gut and love handles and wear old yoga pants and tshirts. And I feel comfortable and encouraged. This really is something that everyone can benefit from, the cost is totally reasonable, there are tons of classes to choose from.
I will be attending for months to come.

I bought the Austin Tidbits deal for The Bar Method and did 5 classes. I don’t think I’m allowed to divulge any details about the workout, since their «method» is copyrighted or whatever, but let me tell you… it is quite a workout. Your whole body will be sore. The main focus is isometric exercise; you work on isolating and toning individual muscle groups at a time.
The lingo/​jargon they use takes some getting used to. For example, the instructor might tell you to «tuck your seat,» which means pushing your pelvis forward slightly. Took me a few classes to get used to that. Also, posture/​good form is integral. The instructor will correct your form if you’re not doing it right. The classes are intimidating at first, because even though they tell you no previous dance experience is required, you walk into a room full of Lululemon-​clad women who look like they’ve been doing gymnastics/​ballet/​Pilates their whole life and you can’t help but feel like the odd one out. As someone who has not taken any dance classes, I can assure you that you can still do this workout.
They tell you that the Bar Method makes your body leaner and more toned, but I’m skeptical. I’m sure if your body type is lean and long to start with, this method will keep it that way; but I doubt that you will experience significant weight loss. Toning, maybe. If I could afford to take 2 – 3 classes every week for a month I might be able to tell you.
The facilities are really nice. The studios are clean and spacious, and there are lockers and changing areas with showers. I think they even have clean towels for you should you forget yours. Until I find a sugar daddy, you can find me practicing a different kind of bar method… one that involves alcohol :)

I’ve tried the Barre Method once (I purchased a month, so I had better go back). I am doing the Barre Method in conjunction with yoga. While, I was impressed with my Barre class. It will kick your butt, literally. I believe that the cost, for what you get is extreme. The studio that I go to lacks a locker room. There is just a curtain for a changing room, and no showers. So, if you have money to burn, and do not care about being icky, with no option to shower. Go for it. Not too keen on having to register, for classes.

My obession with the Bar Method began in San Francisco, and it’s been 4 years, but I am so thrilled that the Bar Method made it to Austin! The workout is great, better than any other workout in town for sculpting your entire body. The instruction is spot on – the instructors do take the time to correct everyone’s position in the room and are consistently talking you through each position.
The space is clean, welcoming and there is parking. I am very excited to get my Bar Method body back!

I took class here for the first time and Kara was my instructor. She was pretty friendly and was good with names of new people and finding out if anyone had any specials needs like injuries or other concerns.
The studio is brand new and very clean. Feels more like a classroom than a studio though. The warm-​up is kind of a joke. The first 20 minutes I barely broke a sweat as we were doing these long arm movements with small weights. Kara only corrected me once when she called out over the pa system. I definitely felt out of form in several segments of class but no one ever came over to give me any kind of correction.
I have been going to Pure Barre in Westlake for a year and it is a much harder/​challenging workout. You can easily see the difference once you have taken both workouts. I think the music at PB is way more motivating and the instructors are much more hands-​on with clients giving subtle corrections, rather than just barking over the sound system for everyone to hear. I am sure there are people that will prefer bar method, but I certainly am not one of them!