I tried my first ever Barre Class – Here’s how it went

As someone who loves a good fitness class, I’ll try pretty much anything that involves a mat, a stretch, and a chance to move. Yes, I’m that girl who lives for pilates, walks with an oat flat white in hand, and has a drawer full of co-ord activewear. So, when I saw a barre class listed on the schedule at Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place Festival, I knew it had my name all over it.

This class was hosted in collaboration with Sweaty Betty, and the amazing instructor Yasmeen brought the energy and encouragement I needed in 30 degree heat on a Saturday morning. Spoiler: I absolutely loved it. Here’s the lowdown on trying barre for the first time, what to expect from a barre workout and why it might just become your new favourite way to sweat.

What is a Barre Workout?

Let’s start with the basics. Barre is a low-impact, high-intensity workout that blends elements of ballet, pilates, strength training and yoga. It typically uses small, controlled movements, isometric holds, and high reps to really fire up your muscles. Yes, there’s sometimes a barre involved, like the one you’d find in a ballet studio, but many classes (like ours at the festival) can be done mat-based or using chairs or walls.

Think: pulsing squats, tiny leg lifts, core engagement, and arm work that looks innocent… until your muscles start shaking.

What are the benefits of Barre?

I get it – there are so many workout classes out there. So what makes barre worth your time?

• Improves strength and endurance: Don’t be fooled by the graceful movements. Barre challenges your muscles in a completely different way. Those small pulses burn!
• Builds a stronger core: Nearly every move targets your abdominal muscles, helping to build a more stable, supported core.
• Enhances flexibility and posture: With a nod to ballet foundations, barre encourages lengthening and alignment. Your posture will thank you.
• Low-impact but effective: Perfect if you want to avoid strain on your joints while still getting an intense workout.
• Mind-body connection: It requires focus and control, making it surprisingly mindful. A sweaty meditation, if you will.

How I got on trying Barre for the first time

I was surprised at just how challenging the workout was – in a good way. You’re not jumping around or doing cardio, but wow, the muscle burn is real. Barre is all about control. Those micro-movements fire up muscles you didn’t even know you had.

The class was around 45 minutes and flowed beautifully between legs, arms, core, and a bit of stretching. It was low-impact but really effective, especially for toning and sculpting. The best bit? The good vibes. Music was playing, everyone was smiling and Yasmeen’s energy was infectious. Even when my legs were shaking, I was grinning.

It was one of those classes where you feel stronger by the end – both physically and mentally.

What Is the Best Clothing to Wear for Barre?

Comfort is key. You’ll want form-fitting activewear that allows you to move freely but lets the instructor see your form (this helps with alignment and avoiding injury).

• Leggings or fitted shorts
• Supportive sports bra
• Lightweight tank or fitted top
• Grip socks (optional, but helpful for stability if using a barre)

I wore Sweaty Betty Power Leggings, and a top and it was perfect. Not only did I feel cute (always a motivator) but everything stayed in place throughout. Win.

Is Barre Harder Than Yoga?

Great question, and the answer is, it depends! Barre and yoga are quite different in their approach.Yoga is more focused on stretching, breath, and flowing sequences, while barre is more about muscle burn, strength training and endurance using controlled, repetitive movements.

Personally, I found barre more physically challenging, especially in the legs and arms. But both offer incredible benefits, and combining the two could be a dream combo for building strength and flexibility.

Do you need to know Ballet before your first Barre Class?

Absolutely not! This was something I was worried about before going, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. You don’t need a background in dance to try barre.

Yasmeen explained everything clearly, and most of the moves are inspired by ballet but adapted for fitness. No need to remember choreography – just follow the flow, embrace the burn and don’t worry if you’re not perfectly graceful.

Will I do Barre again?

Without a doubt. I walked away from my first barre class feeling energised, strong, and empowered – and that’s what a good fitness class should do. It challenged me in new ways, but it also felt like a little act of self-care. Plus, my legs had a good shake going on after.

If you’re a fan of pilates, yoga, or low-impact workouts, I’d 100% recommend giving barre a go. Especially if you love a bit of variety in your routine.

Thank you to Sweaty Betty, Yasmeen, and the Happy Place Festival for introducing me to a new favourite workout. I’m officially a barre girlie now.

Ready to try your first Barre class?

Whether you’re heading to a local studio, streaming a class online, or catching one at a wellness festival like I did – go for it. You don’t need to be a ballerina or have fancy equipment. Just bring yourself, some comfy activewear, and an open mind. Trust me, your glutes will thank you later.