Words by Isobel Coughlan So, you’ve finally signed up for a barre workout. This is an exciting fitness step! Get ready for stronger muscles, better definition, and an enjoyable workout. However, the positive vibes can easily be overrun by stress about what to expect and, more importantly, what to wear. But don’t worry. We have the lowdown on everything you need to know before your first barre class.
I’ve been there — my first barre class was great! But I wish I had a guide to tell me which clothing actually works best for the workout. Without further ado, here’s what all newbie barre class attendees should know before starting. Scroll down to find out more.
You’ve signed up for your first barre class. But what actually is barre? Barre fitness (or ballet barre) is a type of hybrid workout class that combines elements of strength training, ballet-inspired moves, stretching, and elements of pilates. Don’t confuse this with ballet, though. Ballet is a dance, whereas ballet barre is exercise. Barre classes focus on high-intensity, low-impact movements, and some use weight training. Ideal if you want to increase your flexibility, build muscle strength, up your endurance, and improve your posture. Plus, the outfits are cute. Restrictive clothing? Not. Around. Here. When taking on a barre workout, allowing for movement should be your top priority. Barre involves lots of full-body movement, such as balletic poses, arms in the air, and legs in arabesque. Your best bet is to find fitted yet flexible clothing. Avoid any baggier styles, as these can get caught up while stretching.First Up, What Is Barre?
What Is the Best Kind of Clothing for Barre?
Before you start practising your raised tucks and plie bends, you’ll need to dress the part. Here’s everything you need to know about ballet barre clothes. Sports bras are essential for any workout, including barre class. While this class doesn’t need a high-impact bra, you’ll still need chest support to keep you comfortable and confident. Low-impact sports bras are an excellent option for low-key support. The Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Bra Classic is a barre-approved pick that's breathable, sweat-wicking, and comes in over ten colours. For a quick-drying option with 4-way stretch, the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Slim Racerback Bra is a good choice. And if you want something funky? The YMO Full Circle Seamless Bra is for you. This sports bra has a unique knitted look, no irritating seams, and a comfortable yet compressive feel. You can shop our full collection of light support sports bras HERE.
What To Wear to a Barre Class
Sports Bra
Crop Tops
While you can wear just a sports bra to barre classes, many enthusiasts add a cropped tank to their ballet barre clothes for extra comfort.
For barre, the only real parameters you need to consider are flexibility and breathability. So, avoid any restrictive or thick tees. Cropped tanks are usually a safe bet, and here are some of our favourites for barre.
The Vuori Halo Performance Crop is a perfect addition to any workout wardrobe. This subtle v-neck crop is simple and allows you to move with ease. It even has a built-in bra with removable cups if you want to forego the sports bra. P.S. it’s cute for street style, too.
Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Slim Racerback Cropped Tank is another barre-ready top that keeps you cool throughout the workout. Made from the brand’s popular spacedye fabric, this top has 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, UV protection, and comes in seven colours.
Prefer non-cropped tops? The Born Eda Seamless Tank could be for you. The premium workout tank effortlessly fits your body, allowing for flexible movements and comfort, minus the crop and uncomfortable seams.
You can shop our full collection of crop tanks HERE.
Leggings
Leggings are universally voted the best bottoms for barre class. Being able to stretch is key, so really compressive leggings might not be suitable here, most barre attendees opt for supple sports leggings. Think