The Bar Method | LA

The Bar Method | LAClass: Mixed Level Bar
Length: 1 hour
Cost: $22
Studio: The Bar Method - Brentwood | L.A.
Instructor: Kelsey Dworkis
What to expect: The Bar Method, an offshoot of Lotte Berk, is a workout which includes light weights, isometric movements, and bar work. The studio where class is held is carpeted and clean.  Lockers and keys to store your belongings can be found in the reception area. Socks are a must, however if you forget yours you can buy a pair for $1. There is no shower, but a bathroom filled with lots of toiletries to help you get ready your post-workout day.  Metered parking or 2-hour free street parking is available, as well as reduced validated garage parking which is $2 for 2-hours.

Our Take:  If you're looking for a long, lean, sculpted body, you've come to the right place. Even as a Pilates instructor I can be shy about entering a new class, so I appreciate a friendly staff. After I signed in, I was immediately introduced to Kelsey and given clear instructions for what to do to prepare for the class. What I have learned over the years from taking barre classes at different studios, is they all follow a similar simple yet intense format. First you work the arms, then you move to the legs and butt, finishing off with the core. I always shake and burn the whole hour, wondering if I’ll make it out. I was impressed with Kelsey and her ability to remember all of our names, there were over 20 of us! (I can attest to how hard that can be.) Plus, she gave detailed multi-leveled instructions, while keeping everyone moving.  I assumed she had been teaching for a while, but found out she’s relatively new with 6 months under her belt.  I’m a big fan of teachers who can keep things light and make you work hard at the same time.  I wasn’t even embarrassed by all my shaking as she told us if we weren’t shaking we weren’t working hard enough.  Kelsey got me through the hour with her motivating music and positive reinforcement.  If only she could have carried my shaking body to my car. - Kristen Matthews

difficulty: 3/5     atmosphere: 4/5     likely to return: 5/5