What is Barre?

Barre is a low-impact, high-intensity workout inspired by ballet, Pilates, and functional strength training. It focuses on small, controlled movements that build muscle endurance, stability, and core strength. You’ll use your own bodyweight (and sometimes light resistance) to create deep muscular burn — especially in the legs, glutes, and core.

This isn’t a dance class, and you don’t need rhythm or experience to get started. We’re not here to perform — we’re here to get strong, balanced, and connected to our bodies.

At Stronghold Academy, Barre is taught in a clear way. Think solid programming, clear cues, and a supportive community.

What Are the Benefits?

Barre helps you build strength in places that other workouts often skip — the small stabilising muscles that protect your joints, support your posture, and keep you moving well.

Physical benefits:

●     Tones and strengthens glutes, hamstrings, and inner thighs

●     Builds serious core stability

●     Enhances posture and alignment

●     Improves balance and coordination

●     Increases muscular endurance through high-rep, low-impact work

●     Improves flexibility and joint mobility

Mental benefits:

●     Focuses your attention on form, breath, and control

●     Gives you space to slow down and still train hard

●     Builds confidence through progress you can feel

●     Reduces stress through focused movement and breathwork

This is a full-body workout that leaves you feeling stronger, taller, and more in control — not just more tired.

Who Is It For?

Barre is perfect for anyone who wants to get stronger without jumping, lifting heavy, or grinding through high-impact cardio. It’s especially great for:

●     Beginners who want clear structure and smart progression

●     Runners and lifters looking to build joint stability and prevent injury

●     Martial artists and yogis who need balance, mobility, and control

●     Anyone recovering from stress, burnout, or physical fatigue

●     People who want lean muscle tone without the bulk

Barre is also an ideal cross-training option if you’re already doing strength training, Krav Maga, yoga, or HIIT. It supports better movement in all your other activities.

What Should I Bring to My First Class?

Barre doesn’t require a lot of gear — just show up and be ready to move.

Recommended:

●     Comfortable workout clothes (fitted enough to move easily)

●     A water bottle

●     Grip socks or bare feet (your choice — some people prefer more traction)

●     A towel (optional)

●     Yoga mat (we have mats at the studio if you need one)

We’ll provide any light weights, resistance bands, or props used during the session. No equipment needed from home.

What to Expect in Class

Each class runs for 45–60 minutes and includes a mix of standing work at the barre and mat-based exercises.

Expect:

1. Warm-Up & Core Activation
   Start with focused core engagement and light mobility work.
2. Lower Body Work at the Barre
   You’ll use a ballet barre (or wall support) for balance while doing controlled squats, pulses, leg lifts, and holds. Your glutes and thighs will feel this.
3. Upper Body & Core Strength
   Light weights or bands may be used to target the arms and shoulders. Core work will include planks, crunch variations, and stabilising holds.
4. Cool Down & Stretch
   Gentle mobility and static stretching to finish.

We move to music for pacing and energy — but there’s no choreography or rhythm required. Everything is coached clearly and with purpose.

Why Barre at Stronghold?

We do Barre differently. It’s not just about looking toned — it’s about moving better, building strength, and feeling powerful in your own body.

At Stronghold, you’ll get:

●     Instructors who coach for good form not just insta pretty (tho we love a pretty Insta pose strike :D )

●     Real attention to technique and progress

●     A welcoming, no-pressure vibe

●     Modifications for beginners and challenges for experienced movers

●     A class that complements your other training — instead of competing with it

Whether you’re new to fitness or deep into your movement journey, Barre at Stronghold helps you build control, strength, and confidence.

Common Questions

Is Barre hard?
Yes — but not in a scary way. It’s challenging, but approachable. You’ll shake, sweat, and feel the burn. But everything is low-impact and easy to modify.

Do I need to be flexible?
Nope. Barre helps with flexibility over time, but you don’t need it to start.

What if I’ve never done ballet or Pilates?
Perfect. Most of our students haven’t either. This is a fitness class, not a performance.

Is this a good workout?
It’s one of the best for joint-friendly strength, mobility, and control. It may look graceful, but it’s tough in the best way.