Workouts we tried: Bari Studio

This blogpost was originally posted on August 2nd, 2016. Update: sadly Bari Studio closed it’s doors in 2018 and joined forces with Fithouse NYC.

On a rainy, humid Sunday I woke up antsy after a mostly sedentary weekend. It seemed like a perfect day to get some sculpt in and after a long past due attempt to try a class at Bari, I made the leap and navigated to the chic NYC studio in TriBeCa. All I can say is: believe the hype.

Photography by: Nastasia Ohl

THE STUDIO:

The lofty TriBeCa space had a chic, modern interior and the friendly staff was welcoming and accommodating. I was surprised to find it was full of amenities/ necessities plus there's a shower so it's pre date/ night or approved

I personally hate when intense workouts are followed by an absence of showers. Luckily that wasn't the case here, they have 2 showers, blow dryers and spray on deodorant if you need a touch up. Lockers line the back wall on the way to the studio, and the built in combo locks on all of them are convenient.

THE WORKOUT:

My first Bari class (bounce everest class) didn't disappoint-it was a fast paced, dynamic and challenging workout that provided the perfect amount of cardio and toning.The small class size provided an intimate setting and the opportunity for Individualized attention. The coordination was challenging to follow at times, but definitely not overwhelming and the instructor, Ailene really did an amazing job making sure everyone was on track and doing the workout correctly. As someone who isn't the biggest fan of "danced based cardio workouts"' I'll admit I was hesitant at first to try what is boasted as "the most cardio centric class", but I'm glad I did.

(Source: Instagram @BariStudio)

Photography by: Nastasia Ohl

THE CROWD:

Chic, slightly scene-y editors, models ( Joan Smalls), fitness bloggers ( Hannah Bronfman) and people from the art and fashion scene. Slightly intimidating but motivating and a healthy amount of competitive mix. The words "down bounce" will become your new favorite words/ mantra/ motto until the class ends. The class will likely end with everyone drenched in a pile of sweat so we're all friends here.

BOTTOM LINE:

It's a workout - no doubt. Like a scenester, chic cousin of Barry's Bootcamp. I immediately felt the toning results the next day but regretted not doing a full stretch after class. All in all an amazing workout that's a lot of fun!