Barre is not just for Ballerinas!! For those of us who rocked the leg warmers with Jane Fonda....it is becoming tougher to find a challenging work out routine these days,...one that works for well-worn joints and sub-optimal balance! AUXO fitness, formerly Barre Forte, is a wonderful solution; a combination of fun and "physical therapy", if you will. The days of Bosu balls and balance boards might be behind you ...but Barre is forever! Almost all women over 55-60 (this means me! ) notice an appreciable decline in equilibrium and balance as we age. A former gym rat, now working around a couple herniated discs with residual left sided weakness...I have been through physical therapy x 2 in an effort to regain what I lost, namely my stabililty, and get back " in shape." As a physician assistant (PA) in medicine, every day I counsel many, many post menopausal women who bemoan their poor balance, chronic back pain and poor equilibrium. Much like physical therapy, Barre works opposing muscle groups...the rectus abdominals ( two muscles that meet in the middle vertically down our abs), the pelvic girdle, gluteus muscles ( yes, our butts! ) and internal and external obliques. These are the same muscle groups that your physical therapists target when you go for balance/equilibrium strengthening, or for Physical Therapy after a back injury. Core strength is critical to maintaining stability and helping to minimize chronic back pain. At AUXO fitness, the age range is probably 25-75.... we are all working toward the same goal, but for many of us, stability and flexibility is critical to aging well. If you have been to physical therapy once and know what your goals are, classes at AUXO are cheaper, and help you to enhance what you learned at physical therapy in a friendly, fun and multi-generational atmosphere. The barre is always within reach for those of us with sub-par balance, and there is virtually no impact to stress joints and knees. Small repetitive muscle movements to the point of fatigue can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age, and modified to your own endurance and abilities. The staff at AUXO is never judgmental. Fitness here is not a competition, but a common goal regardless of age. I have to admit that, before I herniated 2 discs, I always thought Barre was for "weenies"...but I was SO wrong. Barre builds strength and endurance in a different way than high intensity training, or running. This is the form of exercise that any women, all shapes and sizes , can benefit from. The more you go to class, the more you are able to "find your edge"...i.e. learn progressively how to tighten and isolate each muscle group, always maintaining alignment, to maximize your benefit...and in the long run, your stability. The instructors are always there to offer a substitute exercise or modification for those of us with bad backs or shoulder (read rotator cuff!) injuries. Think about it.... This is exercise for life. A long and healthy life. You don't need to have the plastic surgery that has seen Jane Fonda to almost 80....but you DO need to have the physical fitness to be an active post menopausal woman with strong bones and a confident step. Remember Barre really isn't just for Ballerinas , but for the divas of the fitness world who want to go down strong! Kathy Connery PA-C read more

Barre Forte is without a doubt the best workout! Brinn, Heather, Kara, and Bianca all have different teaching styles, so if you attend multiple classes per week you get an incredibly well-rounded workout full of variety. You will sweat and you will shake as you isolate and fatigue each muscle group. However, shaking means changing, so we are encouraged by our amazing instructors to "embrace the shake"! Brinn, the studio owner, creates lots of challenges and activities to build community and camaraderie among students. You will always be among friends at "the barre"! Lots of deals and specials, so be sure to checkout the website, Facebook, or the Barre Forte app. Body Flow offers a completely different workout that beautifully compliments barre. Heather and Brinn incorporate yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi into a flow set to an awesome soundtrack. Not only is Body Flow available at the Barre Forte studio, but at least one Sunday per month the ladies truly take it to the bar and host a donation-based class at First Magnitude Brewery (proceeds benefit springs preservation). read more

I adore AUXO! Brinn is a precise, efficient and very motivating trainer. Her hospitality and positivity make training with her a mediation in health and body awareness and a welcome break from the monotony and stress of the day. She empowers me to feel more confident and capable in movement and in life. She varies our exercises so that they are always appropriately challenging and strengthening. Her cheer and positive demeanor make her the best trainer I've ever had. I've been very fortunate to work with several personal trainers in the past, but Brinn is by far the most caring, compassionate and attentive to her clients needs. I believe wholeheartedly that Brinn is capable of helping anyone achieve their physical goals with positivity and grace. I plan to be a long-term client and would encourage anyone interested in turning their physical health around to make an appointment for a personal training session and see how incredible they feel after working with such a capable profession. read more

While square footage might not be huge (it's adequate), this is the certainly biggest Heart in town. Brinn Strange has gathered a set of skilled and dedicated instructors and put together a space and program that has attracted a diverse group of Gainesvillians (and others!) and formed a Community. There's barre and yoga and Pilates and Body Flow. There are special events and fun contests and going out after classes to eat or celebrate. You come to a class here and you're made to feel so welcome--not just a body showing up for a workout class, but a person who's bringing their individual body into a place where we're each lovingly attending to our body's individual challenges and triumphs--and doing it together. I could rave on, but this place deserves 5 stars! I'm part of a Tribe who works--and plays together. I always feel amazing--physically, mentally & emotionally--when I've been. I this place! (Oh, and did I mention the great athleisure wear for sale?) read more

Barre Forte is an amazing place not only to work out but it's also a great place to meet new people. As someone who hated going to a gym, Barre Forte is a breath of fresh air: the entire staff makes an effort to learn your name and make you feel welcome each time you come to class; the workouts are dynamic, challenging, and no two are ever identical; the studio is always bright and clean; and the feeling of family extends far beyond the barre! It's been over two years since I started and it's safe to say I'm hooked! Whether you did a similar workout in your home town or you're looking for a new experience, be sure to come out and meet Brinn, her staff, and all of us "barre babes" at Barre Forte! The first week is free for all new clients, so what do you have to lose? read more

Love Barre Forte! I cannot say enough about how amazing this place is. The studio, the instructors and all of the staff are so kind and welcoming. After day one of my free week, I was hooked! The workouts target every area you want to tone, and have several modifications for all levels. I have been taking classes 3-4 days a week for three years now, and have not had the same class twice. Brinn and all of the instructors do a fantastic job of changing up moves, keeping the music fun, and have such positive and encouraging personalities! There are many activities that allow you to really get to know all of the great ladies that take classes here. The studio is truly one of my "happy places" that I look forward to going to. read more

AUXO Fitness is the new improved Barre Fitness that was called Barre Forte prior (that you may already know and love). I have to say the reason I keep coming back to Barre Class is the atmosphere is beyond amazing. Yes, you get to workout in a beautiful clean space (love the new color) and get some shopping in (everything is so cute and tons of sizes). I give Auxo 5 stars for the following reasons: 1. Empowering and skilled Instructors 2. Amazing Workouts (All types and All levels) 3. Tons of Health and Wellness Events 4. Sense of Community 5. Uplifting (You simply feel better minutes after being around so many amazing spirits) Go check out a class...It's not like any workout you've done before regardless fitness level. read more

Barre Forte has literally changed my life. The community of clients and instructors that Brinn has cultivated is truly something special. I've never felt more welcomed than I do at the studio. Everyone is encouraged to meet their best and not the person next to them. Every single class offered at the studio (barre, pilates, bodyflow, yoga, etc.) can be modified to fit every person and fitness level. There are always special classes (like kickboxing) or challenges (can you take 50 classes in 60 days?) offered to shake things up and provide even more ways to increase our abilities. I can't recommend this place enough. read more

Omg! I am totally obsessed with barre forte! This place has changed my life and made me feel like a new person ;) I love coming here to workout. I am not a morning person and don't like to workout normally, but the 5:30 and 6:30am class rocks! So great to get my workout first thing and not loose any family time! Love Brinn (the owner) she is the sweetest and all the staff is warm and friendly! All the instructors have incredible workouts and are a lot of fun! Take advantage of the free week, it changed my life, hopefully it will do the same for you! Good luck! read more

Barre Forte is a great place to work out and find a sense of community. Whether you are a student, visitor, or year round resident Barre Forte makes you feel welcome. Brinn and the staff are all amazing and each brings with them their unique strength and talent. They encourage you to do your personal best and are there with an alternative if you can't do the move they are showing. The class list will find something for everyone and allow you to try different things all in a supportive environment. Stop by today you won't regret it. read more

Barre Forte is an amazing place not only to work out but it's also a great place to meet new people. As someone who hated going to a gym, Barre Forte is a breath of fresh air: I've been going regularly since June and I LOVE every class! Whether you did a similar workout in your home town or you're looking for a new experience, be sure to come out and meet Brinn, her staff, and all of us "barre babes" at Barre Forte, the premier Barre Studio in Gainesville. The first week is free for all new clients, so what do you have to lose? read more

Committing to a barre class was a big step outside my comfort zone. I was 4 months postpartum with my second child, struggling with baby blues, and feeling insecure. Brinn met me at the door of the studio with a welcome smile and a lot of patience. She met me where I was, encouraged me, and celebrated with me as I muddled my way through my first class. Becoming a part of the Barre community has helped me regain confidence and feel stronger than ever! read more

I first went to Barre Forte for the workouts, but I keep coming back for the awesome staff that go along with it! I never did ballet or dance growing up, and other barre studios I've attended have made me feel out of place..Brinn and the other instructors immediately make you feel comfortable and work with you regardless of your experience level to make you meet your best with each workout! read more

I am obsessed with Barre Forte! I am on the 12 month contract, which allows me to come as many times in the month and allows me to comes as many times in the day. Another perk, I like about the 12 month is I can attend the BodyFlow classes too, so that I can end my week with relaxation. :) I am more toned and fit since I have been attending barre in August you Barre Forte!! read more

Thank you, Brinn for bringing this studio to Gainesville! It is beautiful and happy and bright! I look forward to coming to class each day and I leave feeling energized! I had only ever tried Barre workouts on YouTube, so it was nice to finally experience them in person. I highly recommend trying it for yourself! read more

I've only been coming to Barre Forte for a few months, but I'm already feeling stronger and more flexible! The instructors have provided great modifications in every class, so I've felt successful since day one. It's a great community where they care about your goals both in the studio and in life. read more

Barre Forte with Brinn is the first group class I have ever actually enjoyed! It is a very non-judgmental environment and Brinn is so encouraging throughout the class! Would totally recommend it to anyone who isn't usually a fan of group fitness classes... oh, and it's an amazing whole body workout! read more

Brinn has raised the "barre" high--this is a warm and welcoming studio where you are a name (not a barcode) and personalized high quality instruction is provided. Great workout for the whole body--and your spirits are uplifted along with your booty. read more

Barre Forte is the best barre studio in Florida! I've been to many studios, but have never had such a positive experience. The staff is welcoming and helpful and the environment is electric. Great workout and great atmosphere! read more