Pure Barre

I love Pure Barre. I’ve been a regular patron here for many years now and the workouts push me much harder than what I could do on my own. I’ve also tried Bar Method and Barre3, but in my opinion, Pure Barre is hands down the best for both instructor and workout quality.

I tend to not like most exercise — I’m a couch potato for sure so «small movements» is where it’s at for me — but boy do they cause impact! I’ve tried Orange Theory Fitness and a personal trainer and classic Pilates and a few attempts at the «gym» — I will tell you that I have NEVER walked away with the soreness Pure Barre gave me — and I only maybe barely sorta kinda felt stronger with all those above. But 1 day of Barre improved my balance, made me actually feel stronger and feel sore in areas I forgot had muscles!
The instructor was really good — perfect flow in her voice/​call outs/​descriptions/​corrections. She was professional and sweet and great energy.
I definitely felt the burn and I will definitely be back!

GO FOR: BARRE… duh ;)
I came to this location last week for a 75 minute instructional class. It was EXTREMELY helpful. I’ve taken collectively about 20 barre classes at various studios, but learning the basics really allowed me to maximize the workout!
Clean and brightly lit studio, parking next door, and Lela the studio frenchie is adorable!

I read that 2015 is the «year of the barre», and I completely agree! The Pure Barre workout is no joke — even a few of my male friends think it’s challenging! If you commit to taking barre class a few times each week, you will see results within a month.
I found my way to Pure Barre thanks to the Unilocal Elite Event at the PB Redmond studio back in March 2015. It was my first barre class ever, and it kicked my seat (in a good way)! Since then, I usually attend classes at the Queen Anne studio since it’s closer to where I live. PBQA offers class times that work for everyone, and the FREE underground parking is a big plus too. The 5:30pm class is usually full, and the 6:45pm class can get pretty packed too. And whenever I have to stay at work late, I still have time to make it to the 8pm class. There’s a learning curve to taking Pure Barre classes — give it a handful of classes to get used to the class format, more verbal instructions (instead of visual), and focusing on yourself rather than comparing yourself to others. I feel stronger after every Pure Barre class I take, with more noticeable changes in my arms and core.
The instructors at PBQA play great music, and they push you to give it your all during class. Even though the structure of every Pure Barre class remains the same (warm up, arms, thighs, seat, abs, cool down), each instructor has her own way of doing each portion of the class. In other words, no two classes are the same. Some instructors are more attentive to form than others — try taking classes with different instructors to see who you prefer. For me, I’ve had great classes with Lori, Kristen, Fawn, Yenelle, Vivian and Sami (the owner). Sami is an awesome teacher, and she’s famous in the Pure Barre franchise (I even own her Pure Barre DVD workout!). Her classes usually have a waitlist, so I suggest booking her class weeks in advance.
A single drop-​in class is pretty steep at $ 23. The punch cards break down to a lower cost per class, and there have even been a couple times this year when the punch cards were offered at a discounted price. PBQA, and the 5 other PB Seattle and Eastside studios, are also part of ClassPass. If you’re new to Pure Barre, PBQA recently introduced a new client special, 3 classes + socks for $ 39. I also recommend taking the FREE Breaking Down the Barre workshop to familiarize yourself with the class format.

I am a typical gym goer 6 days a week and run as well. I love coming to Purebarre to mix up my workouts. When I am lifting at the gym I am not focusing on the smaller muscles and am sore for days after a Purebarre class. Hate to admit it, but I struggle with these classes which is a good thing!
The instructors are great! Only complaint is the sound system. You cannot always hear the instructors. And I do not wear the socks required so that may be what’s holding me back. :) I bought a 15 pack that I use every so often and noticed they always run three pack classes with free socks. You would think the almost $ 300 course packs would come with the socks and not the 3 for $ 40? When this 15 pack runs out I will be sure to purchase another 15 pack.
And I walk to this studio, meaning I am not sure how parking is and traffic to get to a class.

I have really loved my time at Pure Barre so far. I have been about 30 times over the pass couple of months and I have really noticed a difference! I have lost 4″ total off my body and I am happy to say that I have found a workout that I don’t dread doing, ha ha. I have had the worst time finding something to stick to and I was thrilled when I recently moved and saw that Pure Barre was across the street from me. It was meant to be!
I have been to a couple of the higher level classes — the more challenging ones-​and I admit that I wish all classes were at this level. Though it’s true that you need to take responsibility to push yourself in these classes — only you know how hard you’re working. The lower you go in your thigh work, the better your results, etc. so sometimes it’s hard to make sure you’re pushing yourself to your limits. But if you do, it’ll definitely pay off with these classes. I’ve noticed the biggest difference in my abs and thighs. those sections of class definitely kick your butt more than the others!
I typically take classes from Frances and Vivian and love them both! I have taken classes with a lot of the other instructors too and like all of them. What I also really enjoy about Pure Barre is that it is such a welcoming, non-​judgmental group of women who are all there to work on their individual goals. It doesn’t feel competitive and it’s nice that everyone quickly gets «in the zone.» I only wish the classes were a little more budget-​friendly! But that’s my only complaint.

The workout is addicting! If you have not tried Pure Barre yet, go do it. It’s changed my life!
Great staff, cute clothes! Just go!

Such great workouts and I love the instructors! Every time I leave a class I really feel like I have worked every muscle in my body! I love all their ab workout as well. And its great for people who have just started or are in great shape. The instructors give great tips to help, and keep up the high energy in the class.
They have great deals to sign up for online, and very accommodating to work schedules.
One hint: get there early to get a good spot in class.

Take a class with Sami and your life will be forever changed! Love PureBarre vibe — challenging classes and great music. Really like that PureBarre uses numerous types of resistance bands, which a number of other barre studios don’t use.
INSTRUCTORS
Favorite instructors (Sami, Lori, Dana, Italy, Samantha) do a good job of paying attention to form as well as introducing new sequences to keep workouts fresh and interesting. Wish that Sami, Dana taught at Queen Anne and/​or Cap Hill. Have also taken classes with Vivian, Brittany E., Chelsea, Caitlin.
LOCATIONS
PureBarre has done a fantastic job expanding into neighborhoods, which is super convenient if you’re on the go. Currently has 6 locations in Seattle/​East Side — opened 3 brand new studios last year in Greenlake (Dec.), Redmond (Oct.), and U District (July), in addition to Q. Anne, Cap Hill, Bellevue.
CLASS SIZE
5:30pm classes at QA are packed, and 6am classes can get pretty full both at QA/​Cap Hill. Noon and 6:45pm classes are fairly reasonable at both locations.
PERKS
First class is free! PureBarre also offers Breaking Down the Barre, which is a fundamentals class for those new to barre, helpful for learning proper form and standard exercises.
LASTLY
Studios are well-​maintained and well-​lit. Sole wish is for shower facilities. Queen Anne location has free parking in the underground QFC lot ftw.

I’ve been doing Pure Barre for almost two years and I LOVE it! I’m not going to lie, but the class is really challenging. The primary focus is to sculpt lean muscles and you feel that everyday when your whole body shakes. Over time, the class seems «easier» because your muscles get stronger and you become more familiar with the positions.
One of the most challenging things about taking class for the first time is understanding the positions and the choreography. Personally, I think it takes 5 – 10 classes to feel like you got it down enough to not get lost in class. Class always begins with a warmup followed by arms, legs, seat, and core. Your whole body will be very sore after your first class.
The cost of taking class is something to consider. I think everyone should try the new client special for $ 99 to see if the results you obtain are worth spending your money on. Only you can really decide if your money is well spent. Also, taking a few classes here and there isn’t going to make much of a difference, so the first month is a good balance to see if this is something you want to continue.
All of the instructors are definitely trained well. However, you will form your own opinions about which ones you like based on how they teach and their personalities. I’ve had many great experiences with Nance, Kristen, Amy, Frances, Dana, Vivian, and Sami. I would recommend building up some tolerance before taking Sami’s class. As the owner, she teaches the hardest class.

Larger classes than I’m ordinarily used to (think 20 or so people), but a good workout nonetheless.

I started coming to the QAPB after my schedule changed a few weeks ago – I was coming quite frequently, and it was super convenient to walk to this studio.
I love the staff – everyone is super friendly and supportive, and the classes are challenging to just the right level. If you’re looking for a good studio to start PB, this is it!
The only complaints I have: there aren’t enough lockers/​the lockers are super inconveniently placed in the space to create traffic jams; and the bathroom is directly accessed through the studio, which is inconvenient if you need to step out for a moment.
Otherwise, I’m a huge fan. I consider this my ‘home studio’ now, especially since they recognize me when I arrive!

If you’re new to PB style barre, be advised that it’s a bit more intense than Barre3. The studios don’t have much natural light, and the instructors are more «ballet madame» than «yogi.» I personally think you get a better workout overall and it’s easier to get through because of how they divide it into sections by body part. I know that all I have to do is survive my least favorite (read: most painful) sections for 5 – 8 minutes before I can leave it behind for something else. The teachers manage to push you to work to your max while not making you feel bad if you can’t keep up.
The Queen Anne teachers and barretenders are all fantastic. Each teacher has their own style, and while I have preferences I like the fact that each class promises to be distinctly different from the last while keeping a strict format.
The lobby area of this studio is a bit cramped compared to some of the others (Bellevue, U-​District), but that’s no bother. For those who need it there is ample parking underneath the building.

I was first introduced to Pure Barre in 2011 by my friend. At the time it was a bit intense for me as I had just gotten back into exercising and was shopping around for an exercise studio. I then switched to Barre 3, as it was easier with a mix of yoga and toning. Just as I was about to sign up for an annual contract, I decided to give Pure Barre another try. I’m so glad I did. Pure Barre gave me the challenge I needed, and has definitely made me stronger. It’s much more fast pace and intense when compared to Barre 3.
In choosing a barre class, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a less intense workout with focus on longer yoga stretches, then Barre 3 may be right for you. For more fast pace and emphasis on a full body workout each class, then Pure Barre. As for other barre classes, I have yet to try Bar Method, etc.
As for the studio, Pure Barre does not have showers, but I generally shower at home anyway since I don’t sweat as much as I would in a hot yoga class. The studio has more of an urban loft feel with its high exposed ceiling, which I like. The other barre competitor is also nice with its spa like colors, finishes and more bathroom amenities.
Some instructors at Pure Barre focus on adjusting you, to ensure you have the proper form, or even to just to challenge you. Regardless, they all provide good instructions and each class is structured to ensure you work out your whole body.
This is my 3^rd consecutive year, and continues to be my favorite workout. I have also introduced a few friends, and they are now hooked as well. They also tried the competitor’s studio with me and agreed Pure Barre provided the intensity and challenge they were looking for.

I recently moved to Seattle was so happy to find a Pure Barre studio in my neighborhood! I’ve been going to Pure Barre classes for a couple years now and love the QA studio.
It is incredibly clean and the staff is so friendly and encouraging. I knew my first class going back after a few months was not going to be easy and it was so nice of the instructor to stop by before class chat with me about my previous barre experience and ask if I had any questions.
I cannot say enough positive things about the workout itself. I love that I can get a full body workout in a hour! Each instructor has their own style and the workouts vary so it keeps things interesting. After each class I feel stronger without bulking up. I usually go once a week but obviously have seen better results when I increase my frequency.
I always tell my friends to give it a try, keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Some of the movements take some time to get used to but the instructors are all awesome and are there to help.

I LOVE THIS PLACE! I’ve been pretty active my whole life with soccer, volleyball (beach and court), color guard, ballet, dance, Pilates, and even college marching band (Fight On Trojans!), but NOTHING has been so physically challenging and fruitful than Pure Barre!
I’ve also been a long-​time sufferer of lumbar back pain (since childhood). Since doing Pure Barre (started in October 2013), this is the longest I’ve been pain-​free thanks to the incredibly effective core strength training I’ve gotten from these fabulous instructors. Those teeny tiny movements WORK!
Pretty sure I’m going to take these classes forever. :o)

I have wanted to write a review for PB for a while but wanted to wait until I’d been going for at least two months.
PROS:
— It legitimately works. I was recommended to try barre by my physical therapist for hip problems I’m having. I noticed results in the first 2 weeks (stronger, more toned), and I am already a fairly fit person (I am a yoga teacher)
— The people who work there are kind. The front desk people are bubbly and smiley and do a good job of making you feel welcome — I know that’s not always easy. The instructors likewise do a good job of keeping energy up. I have only had a couple instances where I felt like the teacher didn’t want to be there or the adjustments they were giving were overly aggressive.
CONS:
— Cost. While you will definitely get results, it is very spendy. They do offer student discounts though. There is also an insane late-​cancellation policy where if you do not cancel 4 hours before class they charge you FIFTEEN dollars. Which just seems kind of excessive.
— The teachers, while kind, sometimes don’t have great knowledge about anatomy and say things that just don’t make sense. I should also mention I have witnessed, on more than one occasion, fat-​shaming in barre classes (this is not exclusive to PB only though).
I recommend going and trying as many teachers as you can. I had some ladies I clicked really well with and others not so much.

I first tried Pure Barre after noticing its new location near my home and coming across a Living Social deal for four classes. My first class was very challenging and memorable — Chelsea, the instructor, was very welcoming and did a great job of walking me through it, but it became very clear to me very quickly that I was lacking in the strength department, and I was very sore afterward. At the end of my four class deal I was still intrigued by the challenge of PB, and had had a great experience with all the teachers I’d taken class with, so I purchased another month pass. I’ve been addicted ever since.
Pure Barre has done wonders for my strength, flexibility, and mood. I’ve become quite fit and very experienced in the technique, yet it continues to provide challenge and results. I have yet to meet a teacher who isn’t warm, encouraging, and an impressively professional instructor. The Queen Anne studio became somewhat of a sanctuary for me through times of stress and seasonal blues — the staff and environment are friendly, welcoming, and supportive.
The strength I’ve developed through Pure Barre has also helped me in my yoga practice and aids me in hiking and other active endeavors. I LOVE it and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, effective, full body workout.

My goodness this was a tough class! The lady really seemed to know what she was doing (evidenced by the fact that she was FIT) and tried to help us with our form a lot (which is a good thing). The only reason why this is getting a 4 out of a 5 is that it is pretty pricey. There is a discount for being a newbie but I don’t want to get hooked and then find myself paying an arm and a leg every month after.
If you don’t mind spending the money, it is a great studio to take barre.

This location opened on September 15^th. I am so glad they are opening up a new spot in Queen Anne.
I came here for its grand opening party and had a blast!
The lobby and studio appear bigger than the University Village one.