In order to get a dancer's lean, flexible body, it would follow that one would have to be a professional dancer—not so much. The barre-fitness classes at Studio Barre – Newbury Park are designed to lengthen the body, improve posture, and tone muscle, and require absolutely zero dance training. Core strength is a big part of the equation, as the exercises—which borrow a little from ballet, a little from yoga, and a little from Pilates—aim to keep core muscles engaged throughout the entire 60-minute class. This, in turn, makes back and chest muscles stronger, encouraging better posture and a more graceful gait.

It's not just the core at work, though. The workout is intended to hit every muscle group during classes through regularly changing choreography, which also prevents students from getting bored with the same routine. Classes are open to those of all fitness levels, as is a boutique with Studio Barre branded clothing that includes a tank that says, "So, this girl walks into a barre...", a story that presumably ends in her saying, "Ow."