Kellian Jacobs (foreground) leads a class at the Barre Code, a strength and cardio workout hot spot in the AT&T building.
When it comes to exercise, there are generally two camps: people who prefer a solitary activity like bicycling or jogging, and people who revel in a group fitness class — possibly one led by an energetic leader with a headset and a strict plan for which muscle groups you are going to work to exhaustion that day.
If you fall into the second camp, there’s a new kid in town: The Barre Code, 316 W. Washington Ave., opened in late August. It holds group classes specializing in strength, cardio and “restoration” — stretching exercises akin to yoga.
The Barre Code franchise started in Chicago in 2010 and now has locations in 13 states. This branch is owned by Madison native Kellian Jacobs.
Jacobs attended her first Barre Code class six years ago when she had just moved to Chicago. At the time she was jobless and looking for something to do. Her local Barre Code provided more than a workout, Jacobs says. It introduced her to a welcoming community of people who motivated each other. Soon after, Jacobs went through training to become an instructor and set her sights on bringing the Barre Code to Madison.
The bright exercise space is on the ground floor of the newly renovated AT&T building. Lockers and dressing rooms flank a mirror-lined studio. The floor features shock-absorbing mats. Participants wear socks for class; no shoes are allowed.
Jacobs explains that routines change weekly, so students’ muscles never plateau and so “people don’t get bored.” Classes are music-driven, and a DJ creates new playlists monthly.
I attended a 50-minute introductory “Barre Code” class, a full-body fitness session. It was nice not to have to think about what you’re going to do next; you simply follow the directions of the person with the mic. The class moved at a rapid rate as we squatted, crunched and bicep-curled our way through class. It was a bit of a whirlwind and was over before I knew it — but for a couple of days after that I could feel that I had gotten a really good workout.
Other classes include a high-intensity interval training class, dance-inspired cardio and more.
Jacobs says she is happy to be home. “I know how great the Barre Code community is, so I wanted that for Madison,” she says.
Individual classes are $20; membership costs $99 per month for unlimited classes.
