By Laura Williams

I’m always up for trying a new fitness class so I hopped at the chance to sample the new Pure Barre in Guilford. Pure Barre is the largest barre franchise in the U.S. and offers a total body workout that uses a ballet barre to perform small, isometric movements, which burn fat and sculpt muscles.

The class started with a warmup in the center of the studio using light weights and subtle movements and a lot more planking and core work than I usually care to do. The remainder of the session utilized small medicine balls to tone targeted muscles and double tubing for resistance while at and near the ballet barre.

I’m not exactly in tip-top shape (trying!) but from vast experience, I know that most instructors suggest working at your own pace. Same goes here, I was happy to learn. Detailed cues from the teacher included lots of tucking, pulsing and holding. And somewhere in there I heard the words, “It’s hard because it works.”.

The cheery retail shop located in the entrance is packed with racks and racks of athletic apparel (for women AND men) from Lululemon, alo and more. Grippy socks are essential for Pure Barre and can be purchased on site. My trusty Bombas worked perfectly.

The sessions are 50 minutes and the class changes each time so you’ll never experience the same class twice. A super friendly staff and a packed room of encouraging women also made for a very uplifting morning.

Conveniently located in the complex that houses Fresh Market in Guilford. First class FREE.

purebarre.com

1919 Boston Post Road in Guilford – Unit 204