Meet me at the Barre?

Although a cocktail in the Studio sure sounds like a good idea some times …. that’s not the Barre were talking about!  The barre workout has gone viral and there are so many variables its like a smorgasbord of styles and philosophies.  The barre workout seems to be a natural extension to Pilates as the movements are similar (think standing Pilates work) a mind body connection is required and the precise contractions will seem very familiar to Pilates enthusiasts. Barre Technique has its foundation in traditional ballet and the work of Lotte Berk, a Russian dancer who developed a protocol for her own rehab after a serious spinal injury.  The use of the ballet barre has become widespread in exercise studios where form and precision are emphasized.  As in Pilates, individual attention from a highly trained instructor is essential. Working at the barre gives you a sense of center and balance while performing small isometric movements for each muscle group. Particular attention is given to the arms, seat, hips and abs. This workout also requires mental focus as muscles are strengthened and then stretched to create a longer, leaner physique. Barre technique produces the tone, length and increased stamina also acquired in Pilates.  Depending on the style you choose, the exercises will tend to be more contracted and small, focusing on deep toning and sculpting.  Other styles focus more on the dancer-esque feel using larger, more sweeping movements that require more flexibility and coordination (think battements, arabesques and tendus).  So why is the barre workout so popular right now?  Perhaps it’s the pretty movements, the burn that you experience in your thighs, the cardio effect you get from the circuit style routine or maybe it’s getting the results that people desire.

So should you consider adding a barre program to your studio?  Great question!  Most studios have an area that is used for mat work and that space can easily be used for a barre program.  Most studios have various balls and bands, which are often incorporated in a barre program.  The investment could be far less than the cost of a Reformer and the return could be much faster than an expensive piece of equipment that can only accommodate one client at a time.  Portable barres can be used or you can have them installed.  Do you already have mirrors and a sound system? You may be more than half way there!  You can market to your existing clients and then reach out from there. Then there is the issue of education of yourself or your staff. There are not many options available that don’t require you to go work for the program you train with or require a licensing agreement. You will want to do your research on such issues of: location, schedule, price, requirements, licensing fees/issues, continuing education and support.  Will you have to travel? How long is the program?  These are important factors along with, of course, what style is offered and will it work for you, your Studio and your clientele.  Is your client base older and more prone to injury? Are they younger and able to learn complicated dance moves/ as we said before the styles of programs vary widely.  Take a few classes, watch some DVDs and get a feel for the methods that are currently available.  Pilates Sports Center has developed a Barre Certification Program – Burn at the Barre.  With a strong background in Pilates and Pilates education for over 12 years, PSC has branched out to bring quality, cutting edge barre education to Studios who want to add to their repertoire without being obligated by any brand or licensing.  A 2-day program hosted either in Los Angeles or at your location – PSC will equip you and your staff with all of the necessary elements to “turn-key” a barre program and increase revenue immediately at your location(s).  A remote program is available if travel is prohibitive.  We will package for you all of the materials you need and offer remote support to get you started.  The program includes the vital elements of alignment, cueing and foundation rather than just learning exercises.  We include also, the skills needed to build and teach a successful class.  PSC has developed a clever way for you as the instructor to change, modify and vary the class at any time to keep it fresh and challenging but easy to teach.

What sets PSC apart is the strong Pilates background, a team of professional dancers, a Chiropractor and a history of world class education that places PSC at the forefront of education ability and organization.  PSC knows what it takes to create a solid program and run a successful studio.  We have been educating professionals for over 12 years at Reebok Sports Club/LA, Sports Club/LA, Equinox, and studios worldwide.  PSC courses are all PMA approved, have been taught at Pilates On Tour with Balanced Body University, Inner IDEA, and Body Mind Spirit.

We invite you to join our team and build your Studio with the Burn at the Barre Program and tap into the excitement that is growing with the barre phenomenon.  Studios nationwide are adding barre to their class schedule all the time – the franchise close to you is getting all of the attention – why aren’t you offering the same service from a more skilled and experienced staff?!

Once you are ready to take the next step you may want to install barres at your Studio.  We would like to share with you how to get that done!

Why Choose “The Burn at the Barre™” Certification Program?

Adding Barre classes will increase your revenue bottom line with existing space and a minimal investment!  Barre fitness has been considered the next largest fitness trend and is perfect for any studio.

• Bring new clients into your studio by offering a cutting edge barre workout
• A minimal upfront investment is supported by a quick return.
• PSC can supply most of the materials you need to get started in a turn-key operation
• Marketing and Branding Materials Available
• Ongoing Choreography Support
• Continuing Education Provided
• We Do Not Take a Percent of Your Businesses Income.
• The Program Creators / Directors Are PMA Pilates Certified Teachers™
• Comprehensive Instructor Training
• Boutique Education / Owner Operated
• Limited Class Size: Student / Teacher Ratio is Ideal
• Co-Created by a Doctor and Two Professional Dancers
• Course Manuals are Illustrated and Extensive
• Competitively Priced
• Challenging Variations as well as Modifications to Assist with Injuries and Limitations
• Program is a 10-hour training program performed over 2 days with DVD support materials included
• Course Fees include: Manual / Certificate / and 10 PMA CEC’s and 1.0 ACE CEC’s (in person cert. only)
• Learn the fundamentals of safe alignment and cueing, modifications for client issues and variations such as the use of balls and bands.  You will learn how to program your classes and lead with confidence and creativity.
• PSC creates the best instructors available and we accomplish this through continued education and support to insure your success as a Burn Graduate.

www.PilatesSportsCenter.com 818 788 8112