Both in-studio and on demand Barre classes have gained a bit of a cult following for a multitude of reasons, some obvious, some not. Many are initially attracted to the promise of Barre as a way for non-dancers to develop a dancer’s body. And while, we can’t all look like ballerinas but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t want a tighter tummy, firm glutes and toned thighs.

Despite it’s draw for creating shapely and attractive physiques, some instructors and companies have created very body positive and community-oriented environments. The workout itself is accessible for all ages and abilities and is generally considered to be safer and less intimidating than traditional weight training. In-person and on demand Barre classes combine elements of yoga, Pilates, light aerobics and resistance training which can be welcoming and therapeutic in nature. Yet, this format is not for the faint-hearted – you will lift, circle, pulse and hold nearly every part of your body until it starts shaking and burning.

A unique aspect to Barre is the incorporation of ballet elements such as pliés and relevés, which can elicit a sweet nostalgia for those who took ballet classes growing up. And for those without experience, Barre is a great way to feel like a dancer even if you’re not. In addition to having a “dancy” feel, exercises are often synchronized to music, giving Barre an up-tempo musicality which makes it enjoyable and motivating.

Barre enthusiasts will talk about how “addictive” it is, but most can’t quite put their finger on why. The answer is unexpected. A distinctive characteristic of the Barre brand is its focus on isometric movements and the use of pulsing techniques to achieve muscular overload… but it’s not just our muscles we’re overloading. With traditional strength training we work until our muscles fatigue and another rep cannot be done. In this case, our physiology is the limiting factor. But when we combine very low weight with repetitive, small range-of-motion movements that repeat dozens and dozens and dozens of times, it’s our psychology not our physiology that limits us. Because it takes time to reach muscular failure with bodyweight pulses (or isometric contractions), it’s not uncommon to confront mental and emotional boundaries before physical ones. Our body can always do one more pulse or isometrically hold for one more second, if we really want or need to. When we’re able push past mental confines, something opens within us, endorphins are released and a natural high occurs. In Barre, growth can happen on many levels, which keeps people coming back.