After only one Bar Method class in Chicago in 2009, Kate Arnold was hooked. “I immediately fell in love with it. I was amazed at the changes I saw in my body, my posture, my alignment, and my endurance,” she says. Based on fat-burning interval training and principles of dance conditioning, the body-sculpting workout incorporates barre, floor, and light weight exercises combined with muscle isolation techniques.
In 2010 Arnold and her husband returned to the District, and she was surprised to find there were no Bar Method studios in the area. The career attorney decided on a big life change—she left her law job and opened the first Washington-area outpost of Bar Method. “I couldn’t imagine my life without a [Bar Method] studio. I contacted Bar Method headquarters and began to inquire about opening one,” she says.
Three years later, the Bar Method has expanded to Chinatown and Bethesda and has earned some loyal followers—so loyal that the instructors know most of their fitness enthusiasts by name. But the DC franchise doesn’t stop there. It will now offer brides-to-be and bridesmaids a get-in-shape wedding package. We caught up with Arnold, who told us about the new wedding workout and her tips on looking your best in time for the big day.
How does the Bar Method benefit your body?
The Bar Method completely reshapes your body by combining isometric strengthening exercises with elongating stretches. The result is long, lean muscles, toned arms, flat abs, and a lifted seat. Most clients lose weight and begin to wear clothes in smaller sizes. Over time, the Bar Method also raises your metabolism, allowing you to burn more calories in and out of class.
What kind of bridal packages does the Bar Method offer?
We offer a three-month package with unlimited classes in both DC and Bethesda for $550. We also include other fun perks, including Bar Method socks, a freeze on classes for clients to use when they are on their honeymoon or at any other time, and a private bachelorette class. It is the perfect way for brides to tone up and slim down before their big day, and is fun for the bride-to-be to share with her friends!
Do you offer individual private classes for a bridal shower or a bachelorette party?
Yes, we offer private classes bridal classes, which clients can purchase individually. However, a bachelorette class is included in the bridal package—and that is the most economical option.
How early should brides start working out in order to get their best body for the wedding, and how often should they go to class?
Some clients see changes within the first month of class, but the more time a bride has, the more results she will see. We recommend at least three months prior to the big day, but if a bride is able to start sooner, that’s even better! We recommend three to five times a week for best results.
Can brides supplement the Bar Method with some other form of exercise?
The Bar Method combines strengthening and stretching while giving enough of a cardio workout that it is not necessary to do any other form of exercise if clients are able to come three to five times per week. If clients want to do something additional, I recommend light cardio work.
DC Bar Method. 750 Ninth St., NW, Suite 103; 202-347-7999. Bethesda Bar Method. 7710 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda; 301-652-1200.
