The Bar Method - Studio City

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The Bar Method - Studio City

Los Angeles, USA

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The The Bar Method Story

The Bar Method was founded in 2001 by Burr Leonard. An avid lover of ballet and jazz classes, Burr took inspiration from the Lotte Berk Method to create her own unique approach that she found had great results in creating strong, lean, toned, and healthy bodies.

The very first flagship studio opened in San Francisco and was an instant hit, offering a place where people from different backgrounds - but with a connected mindset - could get stronger together. This powerful community soon ignited growth through a franchise model, with clients becoming hooked on the method before “graduating" to become an instructor or studio owner.

The Bar Method and community has now surpassed 100 locations across North America and is still growing, realizing Burr’s vision of helping “brave and brilliant” entrepreneurs pursue their passion and impact more people.

How Did The Bar Method Studio City Score Overall?

The full client experience at The Bar Method Studio City was excellent achieving The Fit Guide Award Of Excellence.

The class was also impressive and has achieved the Class Experience Award of Excellence.

The Highlights

The check-in and club tour were smooth, professional, and warm, setting a positive tone from the start.

The strong community vibe was evident, with branded equipment and thoughtful design touches that enhanced the studio's atmosphere.

What Our Evaluator Had To Say

“The receptionist gave me a great walkthrough before class and even suggested weights based on her experience as an instructor.”

“The class had a welcoming energy, and the coach did a great job encouraging us to go at our own pace with clear cues for regressions and progressions.”

“The space was clean and comfortable. From the lockers to the workout gear and post-class amenities, everything was well-maintained and thoughtfully branded.”

What to Expect From A The Bar Method Studio City Session

The Bar Method offers a 60-minute, low-impact, high-intensity workout focused on ballet-inspired strength training. Using body weight, a ballet barre, and minimal props, each class targets muscle sculpting, posture improvement, increased flexibility, and total-body strength, all without high-impact movements. The class includes a mix of exercises, expert cueing, breathing techniques, and stretching to lengthen and tone the body.

Classes are led by highly trained instructors who offer hands-on adjustments and modifications for all levels, from beginners to prenatal clients and those recovering from injury.

The Reception Service

There was no answer on the phone after multiple attempts, so our first impression came when we arrived at the studio.

Upon arrival, the reception experience quickly turned around. We were greeted by the coach, who acknowledged it was our first time, confirmed our booking, and introduced us to the receptionist. The receptionist provided an excellent orientation, showing us the locker areas, studio, and equipment, offering suggestions based on the class format. The check-in process was smooth and efficient.

After class, the receptionist was friendly and informative, walking us through membership options, highlighting new client offers, and offering package recommendations based on our goals. Though no printed pricing was available, the information was clear and accurate. While our name wasn’t used, the service was thoughtful and left a positive impression overall.

The Class Experience

The Bar Method Studio City received our Class Experience Award of Excellence.

The session started on time, flowed smoothly, and balanced technique, strength, and motivation. Clear cues, well-timed progressions, and upbeat music kept the energy high and the class engaging. Modifications were thoughtfully offered, and we were encouraged to listen to our bodies while staying challenged.

The coach was professional and warm, offering corrections and moving around the room attentively, creating a focused yet relaxed environment. The cooldown was a standout, providing a grounded finish to the class. The strong community vibe, with participants supporting one another and celebrating milestones, added to the experience.

While the coach acknowledged it was our first visit, there was no inquiry about our fitness background or follow-up after class. Despite this, the class was strong, enjoyable, and left a positive impression.

The Equipment And Studio

We were impressed with the studio setup and attention to detail. All equipment was clean, in excellent condition, and clearly branded with “The Bar Method” logo, reinforcing the brand’s identity. The equipment was well-stocked and arranged, offering plenty of options for all ability levels with ample space for movement.

The studio was fresh, clean, and well-lit, with a unique carpeted floor that added a cozy, welcoming feel. The ceiling tiles carried over from the public areas, providing a cohesive design touch. A professional sound system complemented the class experience.

The Facilities And Public Areas

Public areas were fresh and comfortable, with branded artwork, posters, and free towels adding a welcoming touch. The studio was easy to locate with prominent signage and a strong sense of arrival. The blue accent wall and on-brand elements added personality, while the locker and changing areas were spacious, polished, and professional. Lockers were key-locked, in great condition, but lacked hangers. Grooming amenities like deodorant, lotion, and hairspray were neatly stocked.

Showers were clean, with strong water pressure and consistent temperature. Shower gel and conditioner were provided, and towels were readily available. A water refill station was offered, though no food or beverage options were available. Workout towels were provided, but there was no clear disposal bin.

Digital And Technology

The booking process was seamless and user-friendly on both the website and app. One-off sessions and packages were easy to purchase, and cancellation options were clearly visible. Emails reflected the brand's aesthetic, featuring the logo and signature coral color, but the absence of a booking confirmation email caused some confusion.

The website was mobile-friendly and professional, offering detailed class descriptions, a clear schedule, and promotional calls-to-action. Social media was regularly updated with brand-consistent visuals and accurately portrayed the in-studio experience.

While the digital experience was strong, the studio lacked advanced in-class tech features. Overall, the digital journey was polished and functional.

Pricing

The Bar Method Studio City offers a New Client Special, giving first-time clients unlimited classes for 30 days at $99.

If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, memberships are available from $149 for eight classes per month to $179 for unlimited monthly access. An annual unlimited membership is also available with a one-time payment of $1,925.

Drop-in classes are available at $30 per class. A 10-class package is also offered at $260.

Gift cards are available starting at $50 and can be used at Studio City, Brentwood, and WLA locations.

Top Scoring Categories

Reception Services
four
Class Experience
four
Equipment & Studio
five
Public Areas
four
Digital & Technology
four

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