Barre studios have popped up all across the country and women (and men!) everywhere have felt the benefits. If you’re new barre or just need a refresher, read on to see our tips for your first barre class.

First of all, get rid of the idea that barre classes are anything like a ballet class with an intimidating and scolding instructor criticizing your turnout. Barre classes are fun and silly as well as being physically challenging. They test your overall mental and physical strength through an hour of pulsing and shaking, but you’ll come out of class seeing how strong you really are. It’s an amazing group exercise full of fun energy - here are our 5 tips for your first barre class!

1. Know what you’re getting yourself into

So what does taking a barre class entail? Most barre classes are comprised of movements taken from ballet, yoga, and pilates. The ballet aspects of the exercise are the feet work and using the barre. The yoga associated with barre exercises are mostly the stretching that takes place after groups of positions. The pilates portion of the class is really about the breathing. Deep ab-changing breaths that will sculpt and define muscles that you didn’t even know were there – score! Sharp deep breaths can really take the edge off while your leg is in the air, doing God only knows what.

2. Get to the studio early

There is always paperwork to fill out as well as getting your payment all set up. Most studios have new client deals. Look into those as they are more bang for your buck. Most importantly most classes fill up and you’ll want a spot at the mirror. Being at the mirror can be a little intimidating if you’re shy, but it will help you check your body alignment and you can also take a peek at others to make sure you are on beat or if you need a reference on form.

3. Let the shake happen

The instructor will ask you to come to the balls of your feet, drop down six inches and then all of a sudden your body is shaking. It’s probably a feeling that you’ve never felt before. LET IT HAPPEN. The shaking is your body changing, it is your body working really super hard. When you start shaking, remember that is it supposed to happen, that it is a good thing, and to stay in the position. Your thighs/booty/arms will thank you later when they become longer, leaner, and lifted.

4. Don't compare yourself to others

Whether you're just starting or are a workout veteran, don't worry about you are doing compared to others. As in any class, it isn't about how "good" or "bad" you do, but the progress you make over time. Be patient and stick with it!

5. Prepare to watch your body change

This is the most amazing part of taking barre classes. After your first class, you will most likely be sore, but you will notice muscles you’ve never noticed before. Arms will become more toned, lean and strong, legs will have more definition and less wiggle. Some women have actually increased their height because they are using the proper muscle groups to hold themselves up. It’s an incredible experience to watch your body change–it’s fulfilling and it ignites the desire to want more and be better.