Barre is a low impact, high intensity class based on Ballet and Pilates-inspired movements, designed to build muscular strength and endurance. So, there’s no jumping around but you will feel like you’ve done a workout.

WonderBarre classes are set to music and broken into different sections focusing on major muscle groups including arms, legs, glutes and core. They follow the key Barre principles:

Small and controlled movements (known as pulses)

High repetitions

Isometric exercises or holding a static position

Good form and posture.

Barre can also be seen as functional fitness as so many of the things we do in Barre, mimic movements we need to do in real life.

Yes. Anyone can do a Barre class. Due to its adaptable nature, it suits all different levels of fitness and is particularly beginner-friendly.

WonderBarre classes offer lots of scalable options so you can work at a level that feels right for you – it’s your workout.

You don’t need any previous ballet experience or any level of grace or coordination.

Increases muscular strength and endurance.

Increases flexibility and mobility.

Gentle on the joints.

Improves posture and balance.

Easy to follow routines, so anyone can do it.

Full body workout.

Scalable for different fitness levels.

Helps with weight loss as part of a wider plan.

Particularly beneficial during peri-menopause and menopause due to it’s low impact and strength building-style.

A barre class or any kind of exercise will help you support your mental health. Movement helps change your brain chemistry by releasing natural chemicals which elevate your mood and regulate emotions – chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, whilst exercise also helps to reduce stress by lowering levels of cortisol. This can be particularly beneficial during perimenopause and menopause, when fluctuating hormones can cause low mood and anxiety.

Barre classes can help build confidence and boost your self-esteem as you master routines which are set to music for an added mood-boost.

A Barre class promotes a sense of camaraderie as we plie and pulse our way through class together, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness.

It is also a great source of distraction, 45 minutes of focused time away from the worries of every day life, knowing you’re doing something positive for both your body and mind.

Wear whatever you feel comfortable in, leggings, t-shirt, tank etc.

You can do the class in bare feet or grippy socks, that way you get the most flex through your foot.

Grippy socks are available at Sweaty Betty, Amazon and Primark so there’s something for every budget if you do decide to buy yourself a pair. (Note I am not endorsed or affiliated with any of these brands, sadly).

WonderBarre Class are purposefully small with 5 - 12 people, providing a safer and more engaging class environment. This allows me to check people’s movement and provide any correction or modification, helping to lower the risk of injury.

It’s really important to me that classes feel friendly and supportive. I have been to classes that feel intimidating.

And whilst you might think a smaller class means there’s nowhere to hide, it does help build a greater sense of community.

Anyone can do a Barre class. Whether you’re regularly working out and want to try something new, returning after a break or starting out as a beginner.

I have had all sorts of women in my classes from 18 – 80 years of age. I have had people who are waiting for surgery, living with a cancer diagnosis or have long term health conditions.

If you have a health condition and would like to come to a WonderBarre class, drop me a message via the contact form and we can talk through whether Barre would be suitable for you and work through some modifications together.

Please bring your own mat to the Cirencester classes. If you don’t have a mat, no problem, just message me and I can bring a spare.

All equipment is provided in South Cerney.

Bringing a bottle of water is also a good idea.

Classes cost £14 per class reflecting the small class size and specialist nature of the class.

Cirencester:

Classes are located in the ground floor of the old train station building. There is a paid car park right in front of the door with free on street parking just across the road.

South Cerney:

Free parking available. Look for the sign, Berry Farm. Drive in through the gate, up the gravel drive and parking is right outside the studio.