The Bar Method

If I could give this place more then five stars, I would — they definitely deserve it.
I feel like I am hooked on living the shaky thigh life! What a great community to be a part of. Living literally right across the street, I am surprised I hadn’t checked this place out sooner. I made the leap when I saw a Gilt City introductory deal for a price I couldn’t pass up, and I am so glad that I did.
I have taken many different forms of fitness classes through out the city and let me say that the obsession is real when it comes to the Bar Method Gold Coast.
The location can’t be beat, as well as the wide range of class times which makes it convenient to find an hour that will work for you. (Hello 12:15)
They have lockers, showers, mats, and props, all in a clean simple bright space. I think the main component that sets this studio apart from others is the staff. They just make you feel good about being there. No one seems to be negative, catty, or judgmental. Sometimes this a rare find compared to other boutique fitness studios. The positive energy and kindness is rewarding enough. I also enjoy that this is meant for all fitness levels /​ages. Seeing some diversity in the classes is always a good thing.
Also, everyone that I have met is extremely knowledgeable about the workout itself and your body. I used to be a gymnast and I am hoping that taking these classes will help me gain back my long lost flexibility while also helping me gain strength both physically and mentally.
Yes, sometimes I look a little dysfunctional through out the class. But I don’t feel embarrassed, I like how the instructors will help you and not judge you. It’s a very personal group workout environment, so expect the instructors to know your name and physically move you into the different positions if you just aren’t getting something. I like this since it’s not only going to benefit me, but it’s also going to protect me from potentially hurting myself.
This business is doing something right in the fitness community. I thought it was a really nice touch that I received a welcome card after my first day followed by an email from Jessica which went into a little bit more detail about The Bar Method. Then today I got a personal hand written post card from Amanda regarding seeing me in class and thanking me for purchasing the gilt deal! Other studios should take notes from this.
Sorry for such a lengthy review but I know that I am the kind of person that likes to read reviews and do my research on something like this before committing. I am surprised this location doesn’t have more 5 star reviews. Give them a chance! You won’t be disappointed making this part of your fitness journey.

The Bar Method is challenging, motivating, inviting and life changing. Since signing up a year ago and attending 2 – 3 classes a week, I STILL feel sore after class. My friend who attends class with me was just commenting on this as well. We noticed that we still are getting sore and still feeling challenged. You never plateau at Bar Method as there is always a heavier weight to use or a «challenge» option. You get what you put in. If you consistently chose not to challenge yourself then of course you will not see results as quickly. But if you get yourself to class 3 times a week (they recommend 4 times and I seriously wish my work schedule gave me the time to attend more often!) and give it your best you WILL get a lean, toned, amazing body. I have lost 12 lbs and kept it off for a year.
You may not work up a sweat like other fitness classes (personally this is a plus to me because I’m often busy as we all are, and need to run somewhere after class and have to look presentable) but the sweat is not needed. This is not a cardio class in the traditional sense where you hop on a treadmill and start dripping. Sweating after a run does not always indicate a good workout. Running does not always indicate a good workout. Being sore 1 – 2 days after a work out and continuing to burn calories up to 48 hours after a workout indicates a GOOD workout. The results speak for themselves, really.
As far as the studio goes it is conveniently located, the instructors are AMAZING (they know your name, they are friendly, and they actually care. I have NEVER encountered a «rude» person at the studio. Occasionally there are small clicks that pop up but it is because a lot of people are REGULARS who have been attending class, at the same time, for a year or so. Of course you are going to make friends with the people you workout with everyday.
The price may be steep but every boutique fitness studio is within about $ 15 for a monthly charge. If you are in a market to pay boutique fitness studio prices then I don’t forsee the cost at Bar Method being an issue. Most other barre studios offer similar intro and monthly rates. Bar Method falls in line with those prices.
Anyways, check them out! It seriously was the best change I made to my fitness routine!

Here’s the truth — if you asked me a month ago, I would have given this 5 stars without hesitation. No question.
I had been doing Bar Method for about 2 years until this September, loved it — loved the toned feeling of every muscle. Loved going to Jane’s classes — she was the best. So sad she’s no longer the studio manager.
Bar Method continues to raise and raise their prices to a point where I simply cannot justify paying that much money for their classes. I used to stomach their increased prices of $ 420 for 20 classes ($ 21 /​Class that you could use within a year) which is a LOT to begin with. Lo and behold, they raised their prices AGAIN ($ 520 for 20 classes within 6 months, $ 26 per class), I just can’t bring myself to pay it.
Sorry, Bar Method, I really did love going but I’m switching to Pure Barre which doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

I really like the bar method! I’ve taken quite a few barre classes across the country but this place is spectacular. The workouts are great, I really like the intensity of the instructors. I’ve noticed a different in my strength after the 5^th class.
This is one of the first studios I’ve been to where the instructor knows your name and calls on you for adjustments and modification. That might not work for everyone stylistically… But it’s really motivational for me.
The 30 day intro offer is exceptional. The only down side is this place is expensive

I’d tried bar classes in the past at gyms (namely Equinox) and Pure Barre, but it wasn’t until discovering The Bar Method that I became absolutely obsessed. I’d recently begun a 3 month weight loss study through Northwestern and thought that the 2 month Gilt City deal would be perfect for kickstarting my fitness and getting back in shape. Six months later I’m still a member and a total Bar Method devotee. No one is more surprised than me because I’ve always been the person who worked out more out of obligation than enjoyment or fulfillment and Bar Method changed that.
One of the things I noticed right off the bat with Bar Method is that they are VERY hands on. 99.9% of the time the instructor knows your name and will give you verbal and hands on corrections as well as encouragement and praise. Talking to people and reading reviews it is clear this is really polarizing. Bar wasn’t something that came to me naturally so in the beginning I was hearing my name a lot, but I do think it’s helped me improve my posture, have fewer aches and pains and to ensure I’m doing exercises correctly and getting the maximum benefits. Which brings me to my next point. I don’t have a background in dance so for me, Bar Method was something I saw the most benefit from a couple of months in after I had a stronger grasp of the feel of the positions. I do think it is something that, for many people, has a bit of a learning curve and works better as a longer lifestyle vs. a quick fix. That said, I had done yoga and pilates in the past and I do think some of the things I learned through these translated. Thanks to reformer pilates I do think the round back and flat back exercises came to me more quickly. I also like that it’s very low impact. Yes, some of the classes (Level Two and Bar Move) are more cardio intensive than others, but in general I find the classes to be easy on my joints. I don’t have any issues with wrist or back pain like I sometimes do in other classes. The mats are thick and the floor is carpeted with a decently thick cushion which really helps.
I can understand the nit some people have about it being formulaic. It is true that there is definitely a structure to a Bar Method class, but I personally like it. It makes me feel confident I’m getting a good full body workout and that the instructors are sticking to things that really work. I also personally find that there is still enough variety since there are slight differences in many of the individual sections and a range of exercises. If you like more of a surprise, Bar Move is also great for that since the selection of exercises and flow is more random.
I also LOVE the instructors. In general I find them to be so friendly and personal. I like that they have a very positive and encouraging vibe while still challenging you to take your fitness further. I’m not a fan of a bootcamp-​style attitude so this works for me perfectly. I also think they do a good job of fostering a sense of community.
Logistics wise I love that a monthly unlimited membership gives you access to all 4 Chicago studios. It means that it is very, very convenient to both where I live and work and gives me a good range of class times to choose from. My only wish is that there were more Level 2 and Bar Move classes. They are much fewer and farther between than the mixed classes and in the case of Bar Move, you often have to register far in advance to get in. I also wish they had later classes at night as the latest class is 6:30/6:45 depending on the studio so it’s not a great option for those who have to work late.
But probably the most important thing is the results. In six months I lost 22+ pounds and four inches off my waist and look much healthier and more toned overall. I love that people I know tell me that I look fit or ask what my secret is. I also feel like I’ve seen the progress in class as I’ve been able to improve my flexibility and take more and more options. Yet, there is always a way to push your practice further and make things more challenging.
In short, I can’t say enough good things about Bar Method. It’s really changed the way I think about working out.

Unfriendly front desk, crowded classes (Face, say hello to foot) and barre «hogs» make this chain exercise studio a poor choice for women who are looking to get what they pay for in a class. In addition, the carpet and mats smell. Location is about all they have going for them. If you are looking for a good workout in the area, keep looking.

While I love Bar Method, this review is hard for me to write.
The front desk girl is very young and always talking about her sexual escapades across town. I think employing a college student is a great idea for this position but she is obviously not fit to be client-​facing.
Ever since Jane left as the studio director, the rude owners are hanging around and bossing people around. It is very obvious the instructors dislike the owners because you can see them rolling their eyes and letting out a sigh of relief when they leave. I heard Jane talk about how they couldn’t find anyone to replace her as a studio director and had tried hiring studio directors at other studios but pay them too little and that they were not easy people to work with.
The mats desperately need to be cleaned and so do the rugs. I’ve been going to this place for over a year now and am constantly surprised at how dirty they studio is and how little care is put into the equipment.

I got a free trial class because of the apartment building I live in. The studio is clean, and the staff is very friendly. I could feel the burn with the work out, and found it to be a good use of time. There are lockers and a shower for use. The instructor did call people out by name. Some people might not like being called out, but I found it pushed me to work harder.

Nothing gets your booty as perky as Bar class! I’ve been doing it for about 2.5 months and I’ve noticed a big difference in my butt and thighs! I look leaner and more toned. I try and go to class about 3x a wk, but after a hard class your body feels sore for a few days, so you may need a break!

I came here on a 3-​class Gilt, which was my first introduction to barre and it really whooped my butt! After my first class, I could barely walk and every part of my body hurt. The instructors were all very nice and helpful as they adjusted my uncoordinated body throughout class and I really felt like I was getting the most out of class. Now looking back on these classes after taking barre classes at Exhale, Pure Barre, and other studios, I feel like the classes at Bar Method are the most rigid with the set exercises for all of the classes. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though since you know that you’re getting a quality full body workout every time. I also feel like this class requires the most flexibility in comparison to the other classes since I found myself unable to do some of the moves since I don’t have dancer-​like limber limbs. All in all, I think the classes at Bar Method among the most challenging and are worth trying out if you’re a barre newbie or want to experience a different studio and class style!

I’m not sure what took me so long to write this review! I’ve been going to Bar Method for almost six months, and I have nothing but good things to say. Yes, it’s expensive – but I definitely feel like I get my money’s worth here.
The pros:
1. The location — On State and Delaware, easy to get to and find.
2. The schedule — Classes start at 6 a.m. on weekdays and run into the evening (6:30 p.m. is the latest, I believe). They cap classes too, which is awesome because you still get the individual attention and are not packed together. Some people aren’t fans of the cancellation policy, but Bar Method has been awesome about this. The cancellation fee is enough to get my butt up in the morning, and the few times that I have been late/​needed to cancel, they’ve been understanding and put me in another class instead.
3. The workout (obviously) — I have sore muscles that I didn’t know existed. I’ll admit, I was skeptical about how these classes could possibly tire me out; I played sports through college (not that long ago) and am still very active. The first few classes I couldn’t really «feel it», but after getting familiar with the workout and what muscle groups I was supposed to work on. Once I hit my stride, I found the classes to be challenging, refreshing and fun.
4. The instructors — They’re fantastic. I can honestly say that there isn’t one I favor over another; they all know what they are talking about and are good at encouraging you. They’re always watching your form and are kind enough to correct you when it’s a bit off.
The only downside is that there are only two showers in the place. That’s hardly a complaint, though – just trying to keep my review well-​rounded :)
Final thoughts: If you want a killer workout without breaking yo self, give this a try!

Love Love Love the instructors and class. Each class is different so you won’t get bored of doing the same thing over and over. I’m currently pregnant and they have great modifications for moves and the instructors come to help me each time. I don’t feel left out or behind just because I’m pregnant. It’s great!
One thing that bothers me which is so silly is the mirrors in the room are NOT flattering at all. Haha.

Like another reviewer, I purchased the Gilt City deal for a month of unlimited classes. I’d been looking for a way to workout better and thought this would be a good new class to try.
There’s a lot of great things to say about the Bar Method. I love that you can register for classes online, I do feel like I’m getting a really good workout, and for the most part their instructors are incredibly sweet while being very motivating.
That being said, I was bored. While you can say each teacher has their own twist on the regular routine of the class, it’s minimal. After 2 or 3 classes, I knew what was coming every time and could almost stop moves early to get ready for the next. I would really love these classes if they would mix up the order of the moves. Just a personal preference.
I also had a strange incident at a Friday morning class I had signed up for. I had been to 6 or 7 classes at that point and all the instructors were incredibly nice about people coming in a few minutes late or leaving early — they understand we have busy schedules and work with us. I loved that attitude.
However, I arrive to this class at 8:45 on the dot and am told that I need to get my shoes off immediately and get inside. I still was hoping to throw my stuff in a locker and fill my water bottle, which would have taken all of 30 seconds. I was told that I shouldn’t take the time to do that and should go in right away because this instructor was one of the owners and she was incredibly strict about people being on time. Never having seen any semblance of this attitude from anyone at the Bar Method before, I was shocked. I ended up being told that I probably shouldn’t even go into the class, and to come back later (despite me having to go to work and not being able to make the later classes).
It definitely left a sour taste in my mouth, and having already begun to get bored with the routines, I don’t know if it’s something I’ll return to.

Looking for a new way to work out during the cold winter months in Chicago, I purchased a Gilt voucher for a month of unlimited Bar Method classes. For background, I am a competitive distance runner, but am not in prime shape since I haven’t run outside in a couple of months. I’ve participated in three classes so far at the Gold Coast location.
The other reviews of The Bar Method are correct in that the classes are hard; you’re going to work different muscles than you probably have previously or do on a regular basis. Personally, the class didn’t leave me sore to the point that I couldn’t move or walk, but I could certainly tell I was working different muscles than usual. They also work your muscles to the point of exhaustion, sometimes doing 30 – 40 reps of a certain movement. I’m not a huge fan of this, but I suppose it’s part of the point. The instructors do call you by name and often correct (or compliment) you. I didn’t mind this because they’re not doing it in a negative way; they’re attempting to help you use the correct form and prevent injury.
However, what has really rubbed me the wrong way about these classes so far is the fact that the instructors offer no modifications for those who may not as flexible as them. For example, if you have tight hamstrings or IT bands (as most runners do), you’re going to struggle with many of the exercises. I attempted to modify some of them on my own because I’m not about to get hurt prior to the beginning of racing season; however, I wish the instructors would provide modifications instead of just correcting you when you may not actually be able to physically do what they’re doing.
The staff is friendly and courteous, and scheduling is pretty easy once you’re registered, especially via the mobile app.
I plan on continuing to take these classes with regularity for the remainder of the month and will update upon completion.
Tip: This studio is not well-​marked and can be difficult to locate upon your first visit. It is located in a building of rental properties, right on the corner of State and Delaware. You need to go into the building and up a couple of flights of stairs to find the studio.

I just wrote this review on their main page, but this location is the one I go to most! :)
Oh my goodness me! In my 29 years on earth, I have never looked forward to working out… ever. In fact I’d dread it. I have now gone to both the Loop and Gold Coast locations and I count down the minutes to sprint out of work and head to The Bar Method! I’m absolutely in love.
The instructors are attentive, encouraging, and so darn sweet. I can already tell I’m getting stronger and more flexible after 2 weeks. I’ve been going 4 times a week and can’t wait to see the results in a few more months! I’m hoping to finally have a butt for the first time in my booty-​less life. I also think I’m seeing my first bicep! whoop whoop!
I actually enjoy the fact that they call my name out during class either to say «great straight back!» or «lift your shoulders more, straighten your leg more, keep going!» as I am the type of person that if I’m by myself I tend to stop once it starts hurting and say «meh, that’ll do». This is the first workout class that I’ve ever looked at the clock and said «oh my god, only 10 minutes left??» vs. «oh dear god… 50 minutes left». The time flies by which I thought was an impossible feat.
Yes it’s expensive, but there’s a reason for it. I have paid for gym memberships that I never used more times than I can count and I’m already getting my money’s worth through these classes.