Each class is based on a different method, but they are all versions of the same thing. The class starts with a quick warm-up of leg and arm lifts, followed by an intense round of arm work with light (2-3 pounds) weights and high repetition, then leg, butt, and abdominal work at the ballet barre. Between each segment you stretch out the muscles you’ve just worked so it’s a constant switch between intensity and elongation.

So far I’ve tried the Dailey Method and Xtend Barre classes and they’re challenging but fun. I enjoyed and recommend both classes, although I am currently on an unlimited introductory month at the Dailey Method in Dunbar as it’s the most economical option.

The Dailey Method:
- Originated in San Francisco by Jill Dailey
- This is the first studio in Canada, with 23 studios around the world
- Beautiful studio, with showers, change rooms with lots of amenities, lockers, Lululemon merchandise for sale, and child care
- The instructors are excellent and cue well. A lot of focus is placed on neutral spine, proper form, and core conditioning
- The downsides: First, the exercise studio is carpeted – it’s very clean but I still find carpeted exercise rooms a bit germy feeling. Second, class sizes can be quite full so there’s less individual attention

Xtend Barre:
- Originated by dancer Andrea Rogers
- Workouts emphasize a mix of dance, ballet, and pilates
- This method is available exclusively at Devine Fitness & Pilates in Kerrisdale
- The instructors are great and the classes have a little more variety than the Dailey Method
- Classes are smaller, so there’s more individual attention given to form
- The downsides: since the class sizes are smaller, the price is higher

No matter what barre class you end up at, I like the workouts. They’re great for sculpting and toning your body. With some cardio on alternate days, I think a beautiful body is within reach. I’m starting to see some results doing the workouts 3-4x/week, but it’s still early. Ask me in a couple months and I’ll let you know how effective it really is.

What I like about the studio:

• Small classes. 6 max for mat classes and 4 max for reformer classes. For proper pilates technique, a small class is essential. I attended a 40 person class at a gym once and it drove me nuts watching everyone straining their necks and backs to copy the teacher’s movements.
• My favourite instructors are Danielle and Cinzia. I’ve been working with Danielle for a few years and she’s completely changed the way my body moves, it’s incredible. Danielle and Cinzia both teach classes that focus on form while still being challenging. Like any fitness studio, you need to find the teachers that work for you – the other studio instructors are good, but I find Danielle and Cinzia (along with studio owner Karen) the most experienced and I follow their cues well.

Studio drawbacks:

• It’s not cheap. Mat classes run about $18 and reformer classes around $25. These are standard prices for studios, but you need to have the budget.
• 36 hour cancellation policy. This is understandable given the small size of classes, but it always sucks when my plans change and I can’t cancel the class.
• Some of my fellow classmates have mentioned some classes are not challenging enough. My response is to go see Danielle – she’ll challenge you.

Why Pilates?
Pilates is built upon proper movement and a focus on how the core improves the body’s movement. Yes, you get strong abs, but I’ve also improved my posture, the alignment of my feet and legs…all these things you’d never think of. Pilates is often used as a rehabilitation technique for good reason.

I’ve tried many studios and instructors and am happy at The Movement Studio. AND, it’s right next to Capers on 4th, so the routine is morning class followed by a coffee at Capers. Lovely.

The Movement Studio
2211 W. 4th Ave, suite 207. (Go into the courtyard between Paboom and Vancity and up the stairs)
604-732-9055

I’m always looking for more efficient workouts, so the 25 minute package was appealing for me.  I signed up for the 8am “Power Basic” class this week.

Features of the class:

• No-impact
• The power plate machines are a mix of balance, air, and vibration. You work in intervals where you do different exercises (squats, pushups, step-ups) while the power plate machine base vibrates.  I was  typically 45 seconds work, 30 seconds rest.
• My instructor Mario said 1 minute on this machine is equivalent to 10 minutes of exercise. I’m not sure about that, but I’ll admit – I was tired yesterday!
• A strange sensation that I’d need to get used to. A lot of static moves and holds (ie., squat for a full 45 seconds while your power plate vibrates). You get a workout, but it almost feels like you’re cheating!

After class, you can also try out their Infrared Sauna. Another piece of crazy technology:

Infrared Saunas are an effective method of removing toxins through sweating in addition perspiring is a process of the body that increases heart rate, cardiac output and metabolic rate.

Evidently this thing burns 600 calories in half and hour.

I am a bit of a “no pain no gain” person when it comes to working out, but I am curious to see what happens to my body if I stick to this for a while.  And I am still continuing workouts from my awesome trainers and yoga/pilates teachers. It’s all about balance.

Power Vibe Fitness is less than 1 month old and have a 20% off grand opening special happening now. It’s a good time to check things out before classes get fuller.

Power Vibe Fitness was intriguing enough for me to want a return trip.  I am going to a “Power Tone” class next Tuesday at 7:30am with the Infrared Sauna afterwards. Who’s with me?! Your first class is free.

Do they let blackberries in saunas? Probably not.

Power Vibe Fitness
638 Kinghorne Mews
(entry on waterside, under Granville St. Bridge)
604-687-VIBE (8423)