Welcome to Fit and Fun!
WCPO editors Max Alter and Meghan Wesley love to work out. But, like anyone else, they get bored with the traditional gym workout. So they decided to start #fitandfun, an Instagram series where they will try different workouts throughout the area and take you along for the ride. They'll tell you the basics and give each workout a fun rating out of 10 every two weeks on Instagram. Follow along at @9OnYourSide and with the hashtag #fitandfun. Last time, we tried a class at Cincinnati Fitness Boxing. Find out more about it here.
This week: We tried a Pure Empower class at Pure Barre Fort Wright
If you've never heard of Pure Barre, it's 50 a minute class that consists of isometric movements using a barre (like ballet!) to upbeat music. The class Max and I took was a Pure Empower class, which owner Lori Gray describes as a cardio compliment a classic class. There is a bigger range of movement but it's still low impact and easy on the joints.
Pure Barre Fort Wright welcomed us with a sign!
How it works
As part of the class, we had Velcro weights that we wrapped around our wrists or ankles, depending on the exercise we were doing, small weights we held with our hands, and a platform that's about six inches off the ground. We used the platform for squats, pushups, you name it. I had no idea I could sweat so much while staying more or less in one place. And as someone with bad knees, a bad back ... basically, bad joints, it was a great way to get a good strength and cardio workout while taking it easy on those poor joints.
I realize this all probably sounds intimidating, but really: The owners and instructors were GREAT. We were welcomed with open arms and shown around, and we were able to keep up with the class without ever having been to one. It was an excellent workout.
These were the Velcro weights we wore around our wrists and ankles. Photo by Meghan Wesley | WCPO
When can I try?
Check out the full schedule here.There are classic Pure Barre classes and Pure Empower classes most days of the week. Max and I went over lunch, and it was the perfect amount of time to sneak away without being gone for hours (though, trust me, you'll need a shower afterward!).
What's the cost?
Your first class is free.
Pure Barre charges $15 a class for single classes (some intensive classes are $25 apiece, but classic and Empower classes are $15).
If you sign up for a month of unlimited classes, Pure Barre Fort Wright is offering the first month for $99. After that, it's $169 a month. You can also purchase eight classes for $128 or six classes for $96 a month. You can purchase classes here.
Meghan (far left) participates in the Pure Empower class. Photo by Maxim Alter | WCPO
Was it fun?
Pure Barre has such a cool vibe. It really feels like a family: When you've been to a certain number of classes, you even get your name on the wall! The instructors and owners are down to earth, friendly and, if you get intimidated in new situations when working out, they put you at ease. Max and I had a great time and he said this was one of the more intense workouts we've done. We gave it an 8/10 on the fun scale. Make sure to check it out!
Give us ideas!
Know of any workouts we should try? Email Meghan at meghan.wesley@wcpo.com. Or use the hashtag #fitandfun and tag @9onyourside if you try one!
