Since college, I've wanted a bottom as round as a luscious Georgia peach. I acquired this terminology when I was searching Amazon for exercise DVDs and came across Callanetics. The founder, Callan Pinkney, claimed that by utilizing micro-movements in the exercises on the--yes--VHS, you would find yourself in possession of a precious little peach (and other variations on the peach theme throughout the video). Given my short attention span and seemingly conflicting desires to get a killer workout and not murder myself dead, I didn't stick with it long enough to get a bottom that could fill out a cobbler, but the imagery's stayed with me since. I realized I'd gained, shall we say, some (it's all relative, yes?) weight after Yelping up a storm, and remembered really liking the free workout Hank, the founder of Define, had done at lululemon. The movements weren't frenetic, a la kickboxing (which I do enjoy, except when my shoulder pops out--ow), yet I was all aquiver. I've been able to do it somewhat consistently for the past month, and, when my sister visited, though one of the first things she said to me was that I needed to lose weight (as is a customary first greeting in the W. household), she did say my legs looked skinnier (though, she last saw me two and a half years ago, but I will assume she has a fabulous memory). Each class starts with a warm up, which means swinging the opposite leg and arm and marching in place. From then, you move on to the plank, but with variations (dropping the hips, pedaling your feet), then to push ups and tricep dips on the floor. You work out your arms, back, quads, and glutes with the aid of light weights, the barre, a firm silver ball, and a smooshier blue ball. You usually work out your arms and back with some light weights. You work out the quads by employing the ballet barre and/or taking the first or second position on your tippy toes. Quads kill--one day, nearing the end of the final set, my muscles were quaking so hard, it was as though I was riding a motorcycle. You might be on the floor or holding on to the bar to work out your glutes. After all that, you do abs, stretch out (there's stretching throughout class), relax in svasana, then finish with three breaths. I brought up Callanetics not just for the peach imagery, but because Define's similar in that there's a mix of stretching and muscle work by using gravity, and the moves are most effective when you use small movements. I'd wager the Define workout is also similar to the Lotte Berk Method or Bar Method. I really like Define, because though I get my tush kicked, I don't sweat so much where I can't go back to work without taking a shower. That's fortunate, as the studio has no showers. The restroom and changing room are on the first floor, along with a small studio space, perhaps for private lessons and really small classes. The second floor has the two main studios. Define has a Mind class, which employs Yamuna ball rolling to massage out the kinks (you lie flat with the firm ball below you, so gravity does the massaging). The 30-minute Express class, which has less stretching, but still works the same body parts, was the boon to my existence for a week or so, except when I would skip breakfast and have a ginormous lunch before. Fortunately, the Define workout is such that you can, hypothetically, have a mad craving for some barbecue, decide to skip class so you can get the barbecue, then feel as though you should still go to class, so eat the barbecue as you drive to class, and successfully complete class without too much trouble. Hypothetically. Also, I believe that more classes are being added (DefineCaliente, which is the workout with a Latin beat; maybe yoga?). Oh, and not only are the instructors friendly and knowledgeable, they're gorgeous! read more

Full disclosure Hank the owner of Define Body and I are acquaintances ... which is part of the reason it has taken me so long to try out define body ... hear me out, i don't like bothering people i know when they are at work (unless you are a bartender), but then i thought "but i need to work on my flexibility and that's what DB is for" so i signed up for the unlimited month deal ... now it will cost you some $$$ but i desperately needed work on my core and flexibility ... plus i had just done the Houston half and needed some major help with getting the kinks out of my body AND at my age i need to be taking better care of myself to be honest another reason it took me so long to try out DB is that i am a little intimidated by yoga, i mean as a dude i am not very flexible and some of those movements and poses are just como se dice not right for me ... so i man'd up and decided now is better than never ... My first class was the caliente class and it kicked my butt, it was tough, i should have started with a beginner class but the music is the best of all the other classes ... the soreness was immediate but not to worry i have a month long to work it out ... i tried all the different various classes with just about every instructor. I am now embarrassed i had asked Hank 'who where the better instructors'. It was a dumb question, which Hank did give me the "no you didn't just ask me that" look. The truth is that it must be a very intensive training program for the instructors as they were all very consistent and all were great. Seriously ALL were great, each class did a slight variation to the movements and such, this is briliant as each slight variation introduces a different flex in your muscle and your work out will be different each time you go, that way your muscle training does not become static! Now most classes are 98% female which is also intimidating because ladies are far more flexible then i am. I can be described as a bull in a china shop if you will .... so now having taking these classes if i am walking down a dark alley and see a lady in a yoga outfit, i am running the other way, seriously these ladies are strong! And very nice and patient with me since i had some trouble doing all the various poses or whatever they are called ... To put it in perspective, I have taken regular yoga and that bikram yoga in the past and the differenence between those and DB is that DB is more like yoga on steroids, it will kick your a$$ each time and you will love it! My flexibility has much improved but i still need to continue to work on it and DB is the rad place to do it! read more

This is by far and away the BEST spin studio in Houston. While it's main focus is barre classes, the spin classes incorporate a full body workout of abs, arms and glutes. If you want an easy workout, go to another spin studio in town where you just sit for the entire ride. If you want to sweat and change your body, go to define. read more

I love Define River Oaks spinning classes! I've been going to define for almost a year. When I started, I could only do about 2 classes a week and my arms were so weak that for some classes I had to set down the weights to keep up with the others on weight exercises.... I know that sounds horrifying, but I'm sure others starting define after a long hiatus of little to no working out would be in the same boat. Now I go to class 4 days a week and have graduated to 3 pound weights! :D Between define and working on my diet I've lost almost 20 pounds and approximately 5% body fat! What works for me is attending the 5:30 and 5:45 am classes 4 days a week. These classes tend to fill fast so must be booked in advance. There is a $10 late cancel fee if you don't show. I actually find this very motivating at 5 am when I'm struggling to get out of bed. For me, at least, its a good thing. Others on yelp seem to be put off by lack of friendliness and other clients wearing expensive clothing. I don't understand this. First, I've noticed that Define offers 'rev and bev' classes that you can go hang out with others from the studio at restaurants and bars around the area after class. I've not been, but they sound awesome and it shows how they are working to create community. Second, we are in one of the wealthiest areas of Houston and this gym has a great ambiance and offers a lot of different classes at all times of the day making it very convenient. Why wouldn't the wealthy people who live down the street not workout here, and why would this stop you from also enjoying an excellent work out? I personally do not own a single clothing item from lululemon. In fact, my favorite pair of yoga pants are from Target. My goal of coming here is to shape up and lose weight.. and IT WORKS! My goal isn't to meet my new BFF and, honestly, who IS friendly at 5:30 am?? Not me, that's for sure! I can barely say a complete sentence. Still, if lululemon and girls wearing their wedding rings while working out bother you, feel free to come spin next to me... the sweaty girl who dragged herself out of bed (somedays looks like she got dressed in the dark) wearing clothing bought from some clearance rack somewhere. I'm there 4 days a week loving it! :) read more

Pros: 1. The Define Method is outstanding and it works! I have studied pilates and yoga for a few years, and did cheerleading and dance throughout my youth. Define integrates the best elements from all of these disciplines, and mixes in weight training, calisthenics, stretching, and more in a fun, fierce interval training style workout that fatigues every muscle group. When I started at Define I was already used to working out 4-5 days a week, and my arms and legs still shook like crazy in class. I can see changes in my muscle tone since I started at Define. 2. The studio is beautiful! It is stylish, always clean, and they keep the air conditioning at a comfortable level. It feels posh and high quality. You never get that cheap studio feeling there where it's a little too hot or unkempt. 3. They offer classes all day long, so it's ideal for people with a busy schedule! As the beautiful studio has three separate classrooms, there are a variety of class times all day from as early as 6:00 am going straight until the evening. It suits a busy lifestyle and makes it easier to reach your workout goals. 4. There is consistency amongst the instructors for the most part, in terms of teaching style and methodology. You can tell that everyone is trained well in the Define method and expected to follow it in their teaching. I have been to classes taught by at least a dozen different instructors, and have really liked 10 of the 12 teachers. That's a great percentage! I really love classes taught by Mallory and Elizabeth. 5. Define is run in a classy, professional way. Classes start on time, the staff is polite and polished, and people are treated with respect. Define is not plagued by the inconsistency and troubles that can be found at many small studios. In fact, part of what makes Define so remarkable is that the brand manages to maintain all of the personal feel and positive attributes of a small business, while avoiding all of the negative ones. Cons: 1. The parking situation is pretty terrible. At least two people I know have been towed over the last month, because they parked in the Men's Warehouse parking spaces by mistake. Define shares a parking lot with Men's Warehouse and a nail salon, and it is imperative that you only park in the spaces marked by white paint and labeled "Define" . Men's Warehouse will have your car towed if you accidentally park in their spaces which are painted yellow. The problem with this situation is that there are twice as many yellow forbidden spaces, which are mostly empty, while the scarce white spaces are usually full. Define offers an amazing workout and their classes are packed, so that means 95% of the time the white spaces will be occupied when you arrive. This means you need to get there early so you have time to find parking elsewhere and walk. You can usually find parking on the side streets, or you can park across the street at Kroger. It's normal to plan to walk a block plus during busy class times. 2. Certain instructors don't stick to the advertised level of the classes as well as others. Body classes are labeled as beginner, open, and intermediate. 10 of the12 instructors I have taken open classes with have stayed true to the format of the scheduled class, and taught variations of the exercises that accommodated students of all levels. However, at least one instructor I have had so far didn't seem to have the skills needed to teach to multiple levels at the same time. I have attended her classes twice and I will avoid attending them again if possible. 3. The cost of Define, while well worth it to me, does not make Define the best priced studio in town. That said: the fact that Define charges more, yet is always busy, is a testament to how great the workouts are. 4. Along with the incredibly wonderful clientele Define attracts, they also draw in a small but annoying slice of the OMG crowd. These ladies proudly embrace pretentiousness and valley girl falsettos, as they chase their wannabe Bravo TV Real Housewives dreams. When this feels irritating, remind yourself that you came to workout, not to pledge a new sorority, and you can smile and move on. Overall, the Pros VASTLY outweigh the Cons! If it were an option, I'd rate Define River Oaks a 4.8 overall, largely due to the parking situation. The workouts, however, definitely deserve 5 stars! read more

I hate working out. I've tried lots of gyms and CrossFit but couldn't stick with it. Here at define you can pick different types of classes, the people are so sweet and welcoming, and it's DOABLE! I hate the feeling of working out and raising my heart rate, but I can push myself and get my muscles shaking with Define classes. Try it; you won't regret it! read more

Dig. Dig. Dig. Ence. Ence. Ence. Push. Push. Push. Remind yourself why you came here today, and what you want to accomplish.... The River Oaks location is my favorite Define, as it's closer to my casa, but its my favorite layout, with upstairs and downstairs, and REV classes (these are spin classes on steroids so I've been told) The classes range from 6a.m.-745p.m. at night, and weekends, so the schedule is good for everyone. The teachers are absolutely the BEST with some of my favorites are Kirby, Elizabeth, Donna,and Cornilla, but seriously no matter who you go to, you will get a work out, and two wont be the same, you will work parts of you you didn't know you HAD, and see differences in places you forgot about. Some of the best instructors have the best music and really gets the hour going. The class with challenge you and your core. You walk about of there feeling like a million bucks. As far as price, it varies, as they have many options in packages, or unlimited monthly deals per month, which is absolutely WORTH it. Great vibe, great atmosphere, and great people. They also offer a variety of workshops, and healthy cooking and living classes throughout the month. Another thing I like, is that the Define family does a lot of charity, community involvement, and always has donation classes (both rev and body) for causes such as the Military, Fire Department, and various Cancer charities and Texas Children's. It's a great way to come check out a class with little commitment, and supporting some great causes. read more

Will not go back. Tried a bounce class at the Allendale, NJ location, ended up with shin splits. Their mini tramp is much too hard on your legs. I have a bellecon mini tramp at home and been working out in a trampoline park for many years and never got shin splits. They say their bounce class is low impact but i totally disagree. I am writing this so no one else goes thru the pain like I think. read more

Tell me WHY when brick and mortar retail stores are hurting so badly would a store tow cars at 6am that are using their parking lot to go to a neighboring retail store??? Don't they realize everyone they tow is a friend, parent or potential bridal customer from the neighborhood. Very bad move by River Oaks Men's Warehouse. Talk about lack of holiday spirit ! . Towed this am! read more

I have never written a review before but I had to for define. I love this place! I have been working out on and off for years but with define I have finally found an amazing workout that I can stick to. I went to my first class 3 weeks ago and I have been almost every single day. After three weeks, I feel stronger and my arms are toned. All of the instructors are great- Ashley, April and Donna are all super tough and will make you burn. Contrary to what other reviewers have said, I find that all the classes have people of varying skill levels- it is just a matter of going at your own pace. So happy to have found define, it has changed my life! I feel healthier and happier. read more

Workouts are challenging but I enjoyed it; the instructor Henry (Hank) is a great motivator. As I am a middle aged male and not in the best of shape was a little anxious but the classes are fun and everyone is very friendly, especially the staff. Best workouts I have had in years. read more

This place does miracles! I've seriously tried every gym / workout there is out there and this place is the only one I've been able to get results!!! The staff is really great and helpful! The instructors really do kick your butt. The best way I could describe it is a tamed version of p90x meets ballet? You just have to try to understand read more

I have only tried the Revolution classes, they are very intense. But I burn 600 calories in 45 mins!!!! I am going to try the body and mind one day... for now I am just trying to get through a whole class! read more

Define has changed the way I think about working out. Every class that I have gone to has left me feeling stronger, healthier, and refreshed. The instructors are awesome and Hank is a wonderful, wonderful, beautiful human being (yes, I meant to mention wonderful twice). He is the epitome of a great business owner and truly cares about not only the success of his business but also the instructors and the students. The classes are a bit pricey but if you purchase a monthly unlimited package, you can totally get your money's worth if you actually go. read more

I did unlimited Body classes here for a few months while I was taking a break from my normal regimen (running + cardio cross-training + strength training), but I just don't understand the hype. I will say that the Body class was a good strength-training session, but I felt like to see results, you would need to add an additional cardio component. However, for $150 per month, I kind of expect to get a well-rounded workout. If strength training is the only component you need, then the classes might be what you're looking for. The people in the classes tended to more of the lululemon from head to toe variety, not the t-shirt and Target yoga pants variety. People wear jewelry when they work out. I'm pretty down-to-earth and never really felt like I fit in here. It was just a little bit of a snobby vibe. Parking is a hassle. read more

I'm on Class Pass but come here once a week for Define Body...and love it! Thankfully I'm coming at 5:45 AM, so parking is never an issue for me. The workouts are challenging, engaging and hands-on (they will correct your body form/position). Ellie is great and I always leave class feeling ready to conquer my day! read more

I. love. this. place. I've taken classes with Ashley and Lindsey and both are excellent. The ambiance of Define is like a spa. It's very clean and their equipment is maintained very well. The classes are challenging, but the attitude from the instructor is to do what you can and to push yourself appropriately. Define is awesome! read more

Love Define! The instructors make or break the class - some of the more boring instructors make it difficult to stay motivated but it's still a good, steady workout. If I miss a week, I'm so sore after my first class back. I'm not going to list the best or the boring instructors but I will say, steer clear of Terrika Duckett - she's rude, unprofessional and a lousy instructor! Not sure how she still has a job at Define when all of the other instructors are so friendly and professional. Parking at this location (River Oaks) is terrible so arrive early - you will spend time driving around the neighborhood streets nearby to find a spot. And don't park in the Men's Wearhouse spots, you will get TOWED! read more

I am officially 100% addicted to Define workouts. I started classes back in July 2011 from an expiring Living Social coupon, and I've never looked back. The first couple of classes I took felt super difficult in the moment - the whole thighs trembling, abs on fire thing - but between the upbeat teachers, fun music, and constantly evolving routines, I was distracted from the pain and looked forward to every class. I used to be a cardio junkie and avoid any kind of strength training or stretching - just in and out of the gym in an hour. But Define has totally changed my body without the strain and pain and boredom of the daily cardio routine. I have better posture, toned arms, and defined ab muscles (something I'd written off long ago to genes). I've even gotten my mom (who is in her late 50's) really into it. I don't know anyone who has tried Define and not fallen in love with it. The Roaks studio is beautiful, and so is all of the fresh retail they keep stocked on the first floor. Really looking forward to the opening of their West U location - said to have a spinning studio as well! read more

I love taking classes at Define! It is a true total body workout and the instructors are fantastic! I needed a change from my normal gym routine and wanted a challenging workout and Define exceeded my expectations. I would recommend Define to everyone! read more

I have been going to Define for almost a year and I love it, it is a great workout and VERY TOUGH, kicks my butt every time, which is why I am there. All of the instructors are awesome! read more

Taking class here is so fun, refreshing, and kicks your butt. No matter the instructor. High energy, non-stop cardio and lean muscle building. I like taking mind/body classes to get a slow down and re-center at the end. Get their glow juice after class, so good. read more

I have been working out since ever since! I have done dance, cheer, yoga, step, weights, pilates, .....you name it I have tried it. This is absolutely the best work out I have ever had. I feel great and I have so much fun in class. Try the it! You will LOVE it too. read more

OMG! This gem is the best you can get as far as exercising your core. I bought a deal through an internet special in December and have been hooked ever since. Love Hank, Noe, and Kirby as instructors. Everyone is friendly and accomodating. I am more flexible and my body is more toned. I am more stronger too. I am a regular patron and attend 4-6 times a week. I drive all the way from Webster/Clear Lake to attend the River Oaks location....not bad drive...20-25 minutes. They have classes all day 7 days a week. I can't say enough excellent stuff about this place....TRY IT! read more

Define is amazing. I always leave feeling like I got an amazing workout but also relaxed. I do the body classes and occasionally a mind class. I had done close to no Pilates when I started at Define last May. I can definitely see improvement in my strength and flexibility. It is a great supplement with running. All of the instructors are great and will give you modifications but also encourage you to keep pushing yourself. Billy is one of my new favorites. My glutes are always dead after his class, but in a good way! It is a tad pricey, but you absolutely get your moneys worth. I definitely recommend Define to anyone and everyone. read more

Love this location!!!! Great vibe, friendly front desk , terrific instructors, all around a great place to workout!!!

I love define! I am so glad this little nugget is here to work me out in all the right places. The workouts create long, lean bodies- perfect for women. The teachers are all very sweet and approachable. Don't feel intimidated to come as a newbie to barre, just start off with the body/mind class and work your way up. This place is total worth the money, you can't put a price on self confidence and your health! read more

I love this place. I tried out the unlimited body and rev month deal as a new customer last year and while I enjoyed the Barre classes and definitely found them challenging I preferred the rev classes. I have just started getting back into doing rev more consistently and felt compelled to write a review after being in Erin Stewarts rev class. She is by far one of the most encouraging and motivating instructors I've ever had! She was fun bumping along to the music but she also had a way of getting every one to feed off each others energy and encouraging you to push your own personal limits. I left that class feeling pumped and like I had had a really fun 45 minute workout. Some cons to define are definitely the parking situation as well as the fact that a good percentage of the locker don't seem to work this year... Other wise its a great place! Highly recommend it. read more

When I first started taking classes at define 5 months ago, I hated working out. I would find any excuse possible to avoid it. Now, I can't go more than 2 days without going to define. My body is completely different, it is transformed. I have lost several inches from my waist and hips and have dropped several dress sizes. After just a month, I could see the difference. The work out is challenging and the instructors are great. I would recommend define to anyone who is looking for a really good work out and is committed to putting in the time. But, beware, its addicting! read more

I have always been a very active person. I danced from the age of 3 all the way through college. Working out is important to me but when I go to the gym I usually just do cardio and no weights or any strengthening. I bought a living social for two weeks to try out Define. I saw that it used ballet barres and looked like a pretty interesting class. I LOVE Define! From my first class I was hooked. Great all over work out and you can really feel the burn. Define Calliente really had me sweating! All of the instructors have been so helpful and I feel really good after a work out there. I am going to have to buy some more classes because I enjoy the change up from the gym! I highly recommend Define to anyone who wants to get out of a rut in there work out and try something new! read more

Well-designed classes, beautiful/authentic facilities, and a variety of challenging but fun classes to choose from!

I have been taking the Lunch time express class for as long as I can remember and just recently I had the most amazing class I have ever had. The new teacher, Elizabeth, was motivating, informative and helped me understand why we do each movement in just a 30 minute class. I cannot remember all the things she said, but I left class feeling like I could conquer the world, I am so thankful to her. I have a baby, so my schedule does not allow me to always make classes, but I will always try to make her class now. read more

I was so excited to get started at Define River Oaks this morning, but unfortunately, the building has a mildew/moldy smell that is very noticeable at the front desk. I was hoping that the classroom would be okay, but even upstairs, the mildew/moldy smell is present. I have asthma and am very sensitive to mildew and mold, so I was forced to leave without taking class. If you don't have a sensitivity to molds, you shouldn't have a problem. The facility itself is beautiful and the staff I encountered was very welcoming and understanding when I explained why I had to leave (& I was not charged). I will definitely be back as soon as the problem is fixed. read more

Tried it out on a whim and bought a membership that night. The soreness 2 days after speaks for itself, and I've definitely seen results already. I'm a bit biased and Lindsay Scott is my favorite instructor, but I still have a few more to try out. Make sure to wear Lululemon when you go to fit in.... read more

This location has terrible parking and classes are overbooked. After circling then walking 3 blocks from parking, waiting in line to check-in, I'm told since it's now less than 2 minutes my space has been given away to waitlisters. They can't fit me in later today because they're all full. I'll take my business elsewhere. read more

This is by far the best studio I have found in Austin. The instructors are always upbeat and always deliver an amazing work out! The studio is always perfectly clean and the front desk girls could not possibly be more helpful. They learn everyone's name and are always very accommodating. Even though the membership is a bit pricey, it is actually a small price to pay for the awesome workout you are getting and the level of service! Wouldn't take my business anywhere else! This place is the absolute best. read more

I love Define! The teachers are awesome and very friendly. The workouts create long, lean muscles- perfect for women. If you are new to barre, I recommend starting with the body & mind class and working your up. Do not feel intimidated to come, you will get the hang of it after a few classes! read more

I have been a client of Define since 2011 and still going strong. The workouts are challenging, the studio is beautiful, and the staff is so friendly and encouraging. Define is the only workout I've been able to do consistently without getting bored. I also appreciate how the studio works hard to keep things interesting and different (adding rev., yoga, and hammock classes which I still need to try!). I love this place! read more

Just finished the 9:15 body class with Susan class and instructor were great. The 2 star review is for the snotty girl with the curly hair checking me in I got there at 9:25 and she says well yaaaa I mean it's kinda late to come to the class.. But I guess I can do this one time for you.Cancellation policy is no more than 15 min so I had 5 min left ... Please just do your job and check me in instead of giving customers attitude..Maybe I wouldn't be 10 min late if there was freaking parking available or circling around hoping someone leaves.. I had to park at Kroger..This location has the worst parking!!!! read more

I'm pretty much a fitness whore, which simply means I try any and everything that catches my eye, get bored, move on to the next gimic. DEFINE was the answer to everything fitness wise I had been in search of. Still here 1 1/2 yrs later. From the intense focused workouts that are actually fun and very much results oriented to the personal attention that each instructor gives every student regardless of class size. No 2 workouts are alike which makes for an interesting variety of different target areas being hit depending on what day and whose class you take. I saw results in about 3 weeks but I mentally felt results after going a solid week. I looked forward to my workouts and still do and they have become a necessity to my physical and mental well-being. Kirby, Ashley, Hank, Alex, Erin and Jane are all dedicated instructors and you get something different out of each of their sessions. DEFINE has become as necessary to my fitness regime as air and water:-) Highly recommended. read more