The Bar Method

I bought the New Client Special for $ 80 and so far I have attended 3 classes. I am very active and do HIIT regularly, so I thought I should try out a low impact work out (injured my back a few years ago so I have to be super careful when exercising). I generally shy away from writing reviews this early into starting a new work out as I want my reviews to be credible.
However, this morning I finally FIT INTO MY 26 WAIST SKINNY JEANS that I have not been able to wear for over a year!!!
I have no idea what magic it is, but I see more muscle definition after JUST 3 CLASSES. My butt is perky. And because my tummy shrunk, my boobs look bigger. My arms are not as flabby either. And I really did not change my diet much.
Positive:
–Beautiful studio with free locker, hair dryer, antiperspirant, hair brush, dry shampoo, water station, shower and bathroom stalls.
–Friendly receptionist.
–They give you free bath salt after the first class
–The instructors KNOW your name and will not hesitate to call people out to correct their postures. I understand some people might not like the attention, but I think that if we are paying so much, we better be getting the best out of class by having the correct postures.
–I stayed after class twice to ask some questions regarding a few postures. The instructors are very friendly and will always show you the correct form, how to achieve the form or give you variations.
–Very routined work out. And no it’s not boring at all! There is no time to think about that because your muscles are too busy shaking.
–You feel the BURN. I see people making funny faces from the pain all the time in class. There are occasions when I feel like screaming from the pain. You will be so so sore the next day. And then you can do it all again :)
Negative:
–It is quite expensive. $ 28 for a drop in. $ 24 for ten class pass. $ 195 for unlimited monthly. Basically if you buy the unlimited monthly you have to go at least 4 classes a week to really make it worth it.
Note that if you are looking for a sweaty work out experience, this is not for you. I don’t feel like there is much cardio as you work on really breaking and building long, lean muscles. I thought bar would be relatively easy as I’ve been a ballerina for years. I was so wrong. I almost died. I could not get out of bed the next day after my first class due to how sore my muscles are. I don’t even feel this sore after an hour of HIIT.
It really is expensive. I think I will continue to go for a few month after my new client pass expires. It seriously is the only work out that worked (and worked FAST) on me. And I’ve done HIIT, kickboxing, dance, yoga, pilates, etc.
I’m now just waiting to be able to fit into my 24 inch waist skinny jeans that I used to wear back in college… haha

I have been attending classes here on and off for about 3 months and have just recently signed up for the 90 day challenge. I am 1 week in and I am already seeing a huge difference between attending 2 or 3 classes a week and attending 4 or 5 per week.
I have really bad/​tight hips so I struggle with some of the poses but the instructors are always there to help. If you are attending your first class here are a few things to know:
1. You need tights or leggings that cover your knees. Shorts are allowed.
2. Bring socks or buy some grippy ones. I like my bar socks because they have extra cushion around the ankle for the bar stretches.
3. You cannot hide. The instructor knows EVERYONE’s name. I don’t know how but some how they do. It is really nice and makes you feel a part of the Bar community.
4. The instructor will call you out in class but this is to help you. «Taryn lower your right leg and lift your chest higher» things like this. Once they get to know you they will also push you which is awesome for motivation. They are always watching… like Santa.
5. After your first class they will give you a cute Chinese box full of bath salts. You are going to need them. Go have a long soak and book another class for the next day. I promise this feels like the last thing you are going to want to do but it helps. trust me.
The only thing that could be improved here would be later class times. The last class is 7PM and an 8PM would be ideal and allow for more people to attend. I am often wait listed.
Give this awesome work out a try!!! Good luck!

It’s been 2 years since my last review and after 360+ classes (!!), I can still claim this is an excellent work out. As someone who has shied away from exercise class (and frankly, I don’t go to any others), my commitment to Bar Method is a testament to how much I believe in the workout.
I have better posture, improved balance, and cultivated a mental toughness about my workouts. I go frequently and love how every class is a challenge. Even after going all this time, I’m still seeing changes in my body. One day, I hope to conquer those splits!
Best of all, the community is so great. Everyone in class is friendly and it’s not competitive. The instructors are supportive, friendly, funny, and each have their own distinct style they bring to class. I still love how they all know my name and remember certain things about me and encourage me to push a little more. It’s no joke that I probably see them more than my family :)

Today with Ria in Yaletown was my best Bar workout so far. I’ve been taking classes on and off for about 6 months — I’ve been back at it for a month (was away for 3 months). I’ve noticed a HUGE difference in my strength and endurance since my last class. It’s seriously incredible.
I also have a very sore neck and alignment/​arthritic issues at my young age due to some injuries. I felt today that my neck stopped aching after class and my posture is excellent. This has been very helpful for my peace of mind, confidence, and ridding myself of aches and pains (Ok, except the ‘good’ kind of aches from a solid workout!)
the Vancouver team will take good care of you. Thanks!

I had my first Bar Method class about a year ago and it took me this long to review it because I have a tendency of trying out new workouts and loving them for a while and then completely stopping. I think I’ve finally found my ‘thing’ with Bar Method and I love it!
I will say that when I first started going, I dragged my feet a little, going to maybe 2 classes a week, cancelling when I was feeling lazy and not putting everything into it. But I found once I started going more often, getting to know the teachers and understanding the movements, it only got better. Now my goal is to attend 4 classes a week and it’s totally attainable! They recommend you bunch your classes, so instead of doing a class, taking a rest day, going to another, rest, etc, do 2 classes in a row, then take a rest, etc.
What I love most about Bar Method is the encouragement and motivation you get from the instructors — takes a bit of getting used to when they call out your name in class, but it’s actually really helpful. They also offer free workshops which are great as they break down the exercises, show you exactly how to get in the right form and show you how to use the right props for your body (every one is different!). There are also fitness challenges and somehow putting that little smiley face sticker next to your name really encourages you to stick with it!
No matter how many times you go to class it never gets any easier and that’s a good thing! You can always go lower, try the harder options and really challenge and push yourself. I would and have totally recommended taking advantage of the beginner’s month if you’re looking for a fun workout that you will see results!

I have finally discovered a form of exercise that is efficient and works, which in my opinion, makes it great value for money.
I love that the studio is clean, I’m always greeted warmly and addressed by my first name by everyone. The changing rooms are spotless, modern and well equipped. I don’t have to worry about anything — lockers, locks, towels, water, and other amenities are all provided.
As many reviewers have already mentioned, yes, it is a very challenging workout but you see results almost right away. The instructors are well trained to correct you, which they do by addressing you by name. At first I was embarrassed to hear my name so often but I quickly came to appreciate that it was in my best interest.
I signed up for the monthly pass about three months before my wedding. I have been going to an average of 3 classes per week. In these three months, I have lost weight, countless inches, my posture has improved significantly and I’m seeing definition in places I never have before. I crave going to class because I know how great it will make me feel. I’m not going to lie, the thigh exercises are the worst 6 minutes of my day!

Bar method is AMAZING! It is weirdly addictive! The studio is great, very spa like. The instructors are all Fabulous and know each students name after your first class, it adds that personal touch and is very impressive! I’ve recommended it to all my friends. Can’t wait for my «Bar Body»

I’d been an avid yogi for a while and had been turning up my nose at the thought of doing any other type of exercise. But recently something had been missing from my yoga classes. Some of my favorite instructors had moved on and the new ones were not doing it for me for whatever reason. A friend suggested trying out Bar Method and I thought «why not?»
I became an instant convert. I loved my first class. The combination of weights, barre exercises and ab exercises made me feel like I had really worked out. Also I really liked having the instructors correct my form — something that had been missing in yoga as of late. It’s been three months and I can see a huge difference in my body. I know I’ve dropped inches around my waist and am stronger than I’ve ever been. I love it and know it’s worth every penny.

Thank you to Connie at Bar Method Vancouver for starting my day out right…
I took the 7:30am class this morning and I am sure I’ll be sore tomorrow. (Sore in a good way!)
I’ve taken Bar Method at other studios, but I was really impressed with this one because the staff was super friendly, the facilities were very clean, the location was very close to my hotel, and of course the workout was fabulous too!
Connie took the time to acknowledge everyone in the large class and make corrections where necessary. She did so in a caring way, not a condescending way (which I’ve seen other instructors do elsewhere). Music was good, Connie was on beat with queues, and the class had a variety of exercises and stretches to work the entire body. It went by pretty fast too!
Despite the steep $ 24 drop-​in rate, I’m a huge fan of BMV and hope to return for another workout next time I’m in town!

I’m always looking for a Bar Method studio whenever I travel because they’re the best, way better than any other Bar studio out there!
I took a (very packed) 9:45am class with Chris and loved it! Her enthusiasm, patience, and positive energy. I loved the class and have always loved Bar Method classes because of how great the studio, staff and instructors are and how they interact with people!
I’ll definitely be back here!

I am delightfully surprised at how much I enjoy the Bar Method and how effective it is!
I’m the shy type who hates going to the gym and exercising in front of other people. But when a stress fracture from running refused to heal, I was forced to look into other low-​impact options. Doing Ballet Beautiful at home just wasn’t cutting it so I decided to try the Bar Method. The staff is so friendly and welcoming — I’ve never once felt intimidated or awkward. And after just three weeks I’m sleeping better, feeling better while sitting at my desk at work, finding it easier to bike to work, and noticing new muscle definition!
The classes are brutal and super hard, but the hour flies by and I feel great after each one (though maybe sometimes a bit tired at work after the morning ones!). There are tons of class times that work perfectly with my work schedule, and I absolutely love that clients reserve their classes online and classes are capped at a certain number. I stopped going to yoga classes in Vancouver because I find they’re all crammed past capacity and as a tall lady, I never had room to do all the exercises properly.
The cost is a bit steep, but definitely comparable to other companies. I’ve ordered a couple of the DVDs and am hoping to do a mix of at home and in-​person classes once my new client special is up. And I totally understand the high cost because the teachers are all highly trained, take the time to get to know everyone’s name, and take the time to help with form during and after class.
Even when my stress fracture finally heals and I start running again, I’ll still keep up with Bar Method because no exercise I’ve tried has ever been so thorough.

I have been going to The Bar Method (owned by Carolyn Williams) since January 2012. I LOVE it. I have an ongoing injury and I’m not the strongest person but the instructors never lose thier patience with me. They keep trying and they stay interested in improving my performance (even if I can’t perform the best). They are very hands on and they correct your form constantly, which prevents you from (further) injury. It is hard and it never gets easier, so you never get bored of going. They have a 6 and 6:15 am class which is perfect for those of us who start REALLY early at work. The studio is clean and people are so friendly and helpful. I have been to the Seattle Bar Method and they were good and very nice but it made me realize how very awesome the Vancouver studio is! I should have written a review sooner because it is well deserved!

I’ve been attending for over 4 weeks now… and I already feel like a ‘Bar Star’!! The staff is so friendly and encouraging throughout classes. I get grateful phone calls and reminders (incase I have questions or need help). Their facebook group is a nice little community to belong to.
As far as thorough, full body workouts go, Bar Method takes the cake with the whipped cream & cherry on top! I’m in the best shape of my life, thanks to the studio, the workouts and the enthusiastic instructors. I notice a change in my body every 5 days. Anyone who knows me and sees me regularly has noticed the rapid change. I also love that after 40+ classes, we are still given NEW exercises. It’s awesome.
I’m addicted and it’s worth every penny! Xoxo Bar Method

If you have heard of the Bar Method, you probably have heard that it is a place only for women, only part of that story is true. Its not a place just for women, but it is a place full of women, that are there to work out and get toned in the shortest period of time possible.
I am a guy, both my wife and my sister have been going to this place for a month, and the results are seriously incredible. I decided to attend a class, and here is my review:
To all the men out there, heavy weights, cross fit, mixed martial arts, no matter what you do, (I do all of the above), this workout is hard, and it discovers muscles in your body you never knew existed.
The workout takes place in a studio, which fits roughly 25 women, and 1 guy (ME). Its carpeted, and there is a bar running horizontally (not vertically, this isn’t pole dancing) across the entire length of each wall. The instructor gets on her mic, the music starts, and then for the next 60 minutes you start working every tiny and large muscle group in your body.
I am sweating in the first 10 minutes, and this class has clearly portrayed to me that women have a much higher threshold for pain compared to guys.
At first it was awkward attending a class and studio full of women, but no one there is even going to look at you, because everyone is busy checking out their form in the mirror, and ensuring they are doing the workout right. It may sound vain, but all you do is look at yourself in the mirror for the entire period of the class, ensuring you dont want to get your name called out by the instructor asking you to correct your form, cuz that draws attention to you. Being the only guy, you really try and keep a low profile.
I have done 7 classes so far, and I am yes seeing definition and feel stronger and more toned. Its a little on the pricey side of things, but I will definitely do drop in once im done my first promotional month. Try a class out, you wont regret it. I have found its a great addition to my workout regiment.

I am writing this review with sore abs from yesterday’s Bar Method workout. Sure, this should make me want to complain, but I can’t get enough of this place. I absolutely love working out here, and even though the classes are the same type, each one is a little different with great body shaping exercises. All the teachers and staff are really friendly, and make an effort to get to know you. If you go three times a week, you seriously start noticing a difference! At first, if you’re not a dancer, the movements are really strange to get used to, and you can be a bit intimidated (because I totally sucked the first few times), but after a while, your body adjusts to the movements and it’s an awesome workout!
Plus, the studio is beautiful! Very modern and clean, and there are lockers for your stuff that you don’t have to pay for which is a huge bonus. The only downside to this place is that the prices are very expensive, but if you want to spend the money on a workout that will totally transform your body, it is so worth it!

I’ve never been a workout class person, thought they were all fluffy and chanty and just generally more spandex than substance. I did the one month special about 6 months ago and I’m now doing the monthly auto-​renew and it is completely worth it. I’ve whittled down to high school shape and I feel amazing.
It was weird having hands out of nowhere shunting my hips into tuck-​mode and opening my shoulders but I’m used to it now and it’s that personal attention to making sure we’re all getting the most out of our workouts that keeps me coming back. That and getting thighs like a baby giraffe.
Can’t say enough good things about it. The instructors are delightful and motivating without being tedious and the facility is clean, bright and inviting. I even convinced my giant jock gentleman friend to come and he’s signed up for a month. It’s just the best.

The Bar Method is the first fitness class that I have ever joined and I am loving it. I was worried about how difficult the classes would be as I don’t have a yoga or pilates background but it has not been intimidating at all. The class has a range of fitness levels and the instructors offer more advanced students the opportunity to work harder without leaving out the newer students. I also like the early morning classes they offer so I can get the workout done before work.

I signed up for the Bar Method when it first opened and have been addicted from day one. The studio itself is gorgeous and I love the staff there. To me that’s super important as it motivates me when I feel like I’m part of a community and not just checking in and out like I do at the gym.
I have an old back injury that has made working out hell in the past. Not only does Bar allow me to work HARD but it’s been a huge part of my rehabilitation process. What I like about The Bar Method in particular is that the instructors are certified. I got to meet Burr Leonard — (owner of the Bar Method) when she was there making sure that the studio was running up to standard and evaluating the instructors. With my back, I have to be really careful. I once had a Pilates instructor throw my back out (Nothing against Pilates tho!!). Point is I feel safe under their supervision knowing that they have been rigorously trained. Not imp. for some people — super imp. for somebody like me who cares about being injured and needs to know that their instructors know their stuff.
Bar has totally changed my life which is why I felt compelled to review. I’ve never done a workout that has so dramatically sculpted my body. Love, love, love it!

I wanted to like this place, I really did but in the end it just wasn’t meant to be. From the outside The Bar Method Vancouver looks great, the studio is clean, brand new, and has spa-​like facilities. They even stock the change room with hairspray, deodorant and q-​tips. However, when you get down to the core of the workout it just doesn’t measure up. The instructors come across as very inexperienced, and there’s a real lack of energy in not just the place but the workouts as well. It seems like they don’t have a fitness, dance or pilates background which is something you think would be necessary for running a place like this. They do have a great first time client special though, which is $ 100 for 30 days of unlimited classes. Something worth checking out, but I would recommend trying out similar places in town and then decide which one you want to stick with long term.