Barre3 vs. Pure Barre: Which One is Right for You? An Honest Review

Trying to choose between Barre3 vs. Pure Barre?

As someone who has tried MANY different workout classes – from Orange Theory to CorePower Yoga – I was thrilled when I discovered just what my postpartum body needed in early 2023: barre. 

The combination of strength training and balance-focused movement became my ideal. I’ve stuck with it for more than a year now and don’t intend on giving it up!

But with so many options, how did I find the studio that was right for me? Two of the biggest names out there in the Barre world are Barre3 and Pure Barre. I’m team Barre3! Read on to decide which one is right for you.

Barre3 vs. Pure Barre: What Are the Differences?

Here are the 7 main differences between Barre3 and Pure Barre to help make your decision on which is right for you.

1. Class Formats: A Focus on Balance

Barre3 goes above and beyond in their emphasis on balance in every class.  

Numerous studies cite how balance declines with age and since we need balance to maintain our quality of life and independence, I’m eager to pay attention to it in my fitness journey.

The Mayo Clinic suggests balance exercises that we can all implement as we age and all of the moves they mention are ones we do in Barre3!

While Pure Barre’s movements inherently include elements of balance, it’s not as intentional as in Barre3. In the latter, we’re repeatedly called to refocus on balance and challenge it when opportunities arise in every single class.

That being said, it’s important to note that Pure Barre has a class called ‘Pure Barre Align’ that is specifically for flexibility and balance. So, if balance is a priority for you there’s at least one option to focus on it with Pure Barre as well.

2. Class Formats: Cardio Component

Barre3 also has an increased focus on cardio. Every Barre3 class includes a 1-3 minute cardio verse. They go by quick, but as a former “running-is-my-main-form-of-exercise” person, I surprisingly don’t love these moments of class.

Regardless, I know it’s good for my health to kick my heartrate up a notch at times so I power through.

They’re usually movements that you can make easier or more difficult depending on your mood. My favorite is when the instructor opts for more Zumba-style cardio set to something like a remixed Whitney Houston track (please take note, any Barre3 instructors reading this hehe).  

Just like you can select balance-focused classes at Pure Barre, you can also opt into cardio-specific ones. These classes are called, Pure Barre Empower. The difference, again, is that Barre3 has cardio elements built into all of their signature classes.

If you want a class more heavily focused on cardio at Barre3, Barre3 Cardio is also an option.

3. Breathwork

The end of each Barre3 class includes breathwork. This was an incredibly pleasant surprise my first time there. We could all use some slowing down and, as a mom, I personally feel like I could use breathwork now more than any other phase of life I’ve lived.

Depending upon the instructor, they’ll guide you through different breathing methods. Sometimes it’s box breathing to calm your entire nervous system, other times it’s 4-7-8 breathing, and so on.

I’ve learned so much about different breathing techniques that I’ve then applied to other aspects of my life outside of the studio walls. And although the breathwork portion is usually just for a few minutes at the end of the workout, it really solidifies the mind-body connection.

Many of the instructors at my studio also weave in affirmations during this time. As someone who firmly believes in the power to rewire our thoughts and the role that plays in our daily lives, I appreciate this inclusion.

All in all, the small but mighty breathwork cycles have helped me to leave class calm, centered, and excited for my day ahead. It’s a huge winning point in my book and I can’t wait to try Barre3’s newest class type: Barre3 Mindful Flow.

There isn’t a Pure Barre equivalent to this.

4. Ambiance

Ambiance can be a make or break when it comes to a workout space. You want your workout environment to be something that is comfortable for you. The following differentiators may seem small, but ultimately they’re what drew me to one studio over the other.

Music: 

Pure Barre tends to play loud, pop/hip-hop hits that foster ‘music synchronicity,’ or, music-aligned movement. Research shows this helps to build endurance in exercise and serves as a powerful tool to uplevel your workout.

I have to say, I have really enjoyed the music at Pure Barre. At times, I’ve found it way too loud but overall I like their approach to music and movement. 

That being said, I haven’t had a negative experience with the music at Barre3. In fact, I’ve been exposed to music that isn’t necessarily chart-topping but is still really good. And, it’s usually at a volume I can enjoy.

Lighting and Floors: 

Barre3 studios, in my experience, offer lots of natural light. This is balanced out with dimming at key moments like during the cardio verse, when you want the room a little cooler, and during breathwork. Barre3 studios also have hardwood floors, which further open up the space.

Pure Barre studios, in my personal experience, tend to offer a darker setting with little to no windows. The floors are covered in workout mats. It works for some, but it’s not an ideal environment for me.

Vibe: 

What further feeds the comfort I feel at Barre3 are the instructors and the method they apply. Each instructor is encouraging, offers plenty of modifications, and applauds taking cues to listen to your body.

For me, Barre3 has emphasized overall wellness and building confidence in the body that I’m in and I LOVE that.

As for Pure Barre, I’ve often felt that overcorrection is the name of the game. I’m all for constructive criticism and improving my form but when it’s constant, it feels like pleasing the instructor is the focus of the class rather than challenging myself and meeting the goals I set for myself.

5. Childcare

Most Barre3 studios offer childcare, making them parent-friendly.

Though I haven’t needed to use this offering yet, it’s included in my monthly unlimited Barre membership.

The childcare space in my local Barre3 studio is warm and inviting – similar to the studio vibes. It’s small but secure and cozy with plenty of books, stuffed animals, and stimulating Montessori-style toys.

And of course, there is a responsible Barre3 employee watching your child and interacting with them while you get your workout in. 

6. Inclusivity 

Now, I’m sure it’s somewhat studio dependent…but my Barre3 studio is Inclusive with a capital I. I’ve not experienced this in the many Pure Barre studios I’ve tried. Or really, in any other fitness class I’ve joined.

What do I even mean by inclusive? To me, inclusivity means a diversity of backgrounds – people of different races/ethnicities, ages, sizes, sexual orientation, genders, etc. are present. Not just invited – but they actually feel comfortable enough to show up.

Speaking as a Pakistani-American woman myself, I noticed this in my first Barre3 class and was immediately curious on whether such an environment was intentionally established or happenstance.

Was the studio hiring instructors of differing backgrounds, which was then cascading down to those who seek out Barre3? Was I experiencing this diversity solely because of where I live (Chicago’s city center)?

The researcher in me dug around and found this pre-2020 post from Barre3 Founder, Sadie Lincoln, which supports the former.

Anyway, I appreciate the thought that went into creating the environment I’ve had the opportunity to experience and it’s another major point in the Barre3 bucket for me.

7. External Rewards

In my experience, I’ve found that Pure Barre offers more external rewards. PB studios publicly shout out those who have reached a certain number of classes in a more consistent and formal way.

They also have different challenges you can sign up for with potential rewards, like a free studio class.

I think this is more of a brand thing and I don’t think Barre3 is opposed to offering these types of motivators, they’re just not as organized around it.

Personally, I don’t feel like I’m missing out without it but if you’re someone who enjoys what I just described for Pure Barre, that’s something to consider.

Also, it’s worth checking with your local studios to see what they offer on this front since every studio is slightly different.

Barre3 or Pure Barre: Which One is Right for You?

That was a lot! Let’s get into the quick synopsis and side-by-side comparison to help you decide which barre haven is right for you.

What to Wear to Barre Class

Luckily, you probably have most of what you need for a barre class in your closet with the exception of grip socks. But if you’re looking to uplevel your fitness wardrobe here are some of my favorite barre-friendly options: 

My new favorite workout gear comes from Pact – they have top-of-the-line stretchy organic cotton leggings that are so comfortable. 

👉 Click here to purchase the Pact leggings

Madewell has incredibly soft cotton crop tees that I’ve started to use for my workouts. Loose and flowy tops are more my vibe these days than fitted workout gear. I also prefer cotton to the sometimes PFAS-laden moisture wicking gear out there (ugh, I know).

👉 Click here to purchase the soft cotton Madewell crop

Grippy socks aren’t required for Barre3 but I do like wearing them on the hardwood. Also, if you opt for PureBarre, grip socks are required.

👉 Click here to purchase lightweight grip socks

FAQ: Barre3 vs. Pure Barre

Still undecided? Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about Barre3 that will help you further:

Is Barre3 and Pure Barre the same? 

While some of the core characteristics are the same, their differences make these 2 studios feel like different workouts altogether. Barre3 feels more holistic while Pure Barre sticks more closely to traditional barre principles.

Is Barre3 hard? 

This might be an annoying answer but my personal philosophy is that you can make ANY workout easier or harder with modifications. I love that I can set my pace with Barre3 – more than I’ve been able to do in other workout classes.

How many times a week should you do Barre3? 

For beginners, I’d recommend 3 times a week. I usually go a max of 4 times a week – that’s my sweet spot – and it happens to align with the American Heart Association’s 150 minutes/week of recommended aerobic activity for adults.

Do you wear shoes for Barre3? 

No shoes needed! You can wear grippy socks or go barefoot. I’ve done both but my preference is for socks.

Do you bring a yoga mat to Barre3? 

You don’t need a yoga mat for Barre3. If you choose to do a strength class, your studio will provide the mat you need. They’ll also provide a mat for the ab workout component of each class.

Final Verdict on Barre3 vs. Pure Barre

Ultimately, you get to decide which workout is right for you!

My preference is for Barre3 – nothing beats the mind-body connection and strength I feel in my body after just a quick 45-minute Barre3 class. 

The amazing part is that both Barre3 and Pure Barre offer free introductory classes. So, you can try them out and decide which fits your goals, your life, and your body best. 

When done with consistency and intention, both of these studios has the power to enhance your wellness and your joy.