How Do You Know When You’re Ready for Bar Strength?

When you look at the class schedule and see Bar Strength, what’s your first reaction? Are you unsure of what it is? Convinced it’s not for you? Maybe a little intimidated by it? We are here to demystify this time-tested class and help you decide whether or not you’d like to add it to your routine! 

So…what is Bar Strength? On its face, it is an extension of the classic Bar Method sequence originally designed in 2003 to keep students challenged and engaged as they grew stronger taking Bar Method classes regularly. Since then, Bar Strength has evolved but continues on in the spirit of building strength—inside and out.

How do you know if you’re ready for Bar Strength? Here are some things to consider:

You have a few Method classes under your belt.

• Our technique is precise; anyone who has taken a class or two knows that an inch can change everything! Bar Strength relies on its students having a foundational knowledge of Bar Method terminology and positioning. This allows teachers to spend less time explaining how to get into an exercise and focus more on higher-level adjustments, challenges and benefits. You will feel most successful if you are familiar with the basics of a Bar Method class so you can focus on the “why” rather than the “what” or “how.”

You routinely take the challenge options in class.

• If you find yourself jumping at the chance to do your push-ups on the balls of your feet, hold relevé in seat work, or can’t wait to let go during curl, then you’ll be thrilled to know that Bar Strength is a buffet of challenge options. Advanced classes provide new opportunities to perfect your form and really go for it to see how strong you truly are. Of course you’ll still have the same autonomy to modify according to what is best for you. Always remember that options are just that— optional! 

You crave a mental workout.

• Bar Strength is specifically designed to exhaust your muscles and engage your mind. This format demands focus, so it’s a great place to shut out the rest of your day and concentrate on yourself. You can expect complex choreography that forces you to stay present to stay on beat, as well as patterns that build intensity to create new levels of strength. Not to mention the willpower it takes to commit to staying in it to the end! 

You are looking to increase your results.

• Everyone exercises for their own reasons. If you feel like you have reached a plateau in strength, physical results, or want to learn more about the technique, pop into a Bar Strength class. A faster pace with concise cues creates time for extra sets of our most transformational exercises, which means you get more time and more reps. This intense strengthening work boosts metabolism long after class.  It’s also an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the mechanics and benefits of the movements, which sharpens your mind-body connection. 

Still not quite sure if you’re up for Bar Strength? Talk to the teachers at your local studio and let them know you’re curious! Also consider that you have nothing to lose by trying it…what’s the worst that could happen? The core technique in all Bar Method class formats is designed to be effective and safe for life, so rest easy knowing that we will never throw anything at you that you can’t handle and our experienced teachers always have your back (literally and figuratively!).

About the Author

Stephanie Kagan took her first Bar Method class in 2011; that initial step led her to later become a certified instructor at The Bar Method Baltimore and a national coach. Stephanie now serves full-time with The Bar Method as our Continuing Education Leader. Stephanie lives for a good challenge and loves spending time with her husband and two children.