Review: Bar Method
I had some ClassPass credits to use and my schedule for last week was a little weird, so I decided to replace my normal Thursday AM barre3 class with something ClassPass. I wanted a studio with showers so that I could wash my hair after class, and Bar Method fit into my schedule, has showers, and is a convenient location - so I signed up for an 8am class.
I wanted to be there 15 minutes before class, so my plan was to leave the apartment around 7:35, giving myself 10 minutes to get there. I was running a little late, but I also walked fast, so I got there pretty much exactly when I wanted to. I checked in at the front desk, was told to take off my shoes (okay, weird, why can't I take them off near the lockers?), and filled out a laminated waiver in dry-erase marker. My handwriting is messy when writing with a pen, so I'd be really surprised if they could read anything on there. Once I had filled out the paperwork, I was given a tour of the studio and introduced to the instructor. The staff was warm and welcoming, and once I was ready (aka had changed out of my street clothes and put on my grip socks), I went into the studio and started stretching. I really wasn't sure what spot I wanted, but I think I ended up somewhere okay.
Class was very clearly divided into sections - started with arms, moved on to legs, and then finished with core work. There were a lot of very small movements - a lot of the time I wasn't even sure if I was doing anything because the movements were so small that I didn't feel them. Sometimes we did the same movement for extended periods of time, and other times we'd switch between movements every 8 count. It took some getting used to. Oh, and the instructor's count was not always accurate, so she would say something like "15 left" and start counting down and we'd switch to something else after 5. It got very confusing.
In terms of corrections, modifications, etc - class definitely felt geared towards the regular who knew what was going on and what movements they were supposed to be doing, but the instructor did go around and help the beginners. There were some verbal callouts/modifications, which bothered me a lot at the beginning (I didn't need the entire class to know what I was doing wrong), but I eventually got used to. There was also some hands-on correction, which is much more what I'm used to. I could definitely tell that the instructor spent a lot of time looking around the class to make sure everyone was doing the exercises okay and with proper form.
After class, I showered and did my hair. The showers were decent (I used their shampoo/conditioner but my own body wash because allergies) and their blow dryer was fine (I brought my own iron). I finished getting ready for work, said thank you and goodbye to the instructor and the staff, and then I went to work.
Would I Go Again?
Probably. Overall, the staff and instruction were great, and the class wasn't bad, it just wasn't what I usually enjoy. That said, I could see myself liking it more with more classes, and it's super convenient (seriously ... I walk past this place all the time). I don't think it will become a regular part of my routine, but if I'm looking for a workout that's super convenient, this is probably my best option.
