Pure Barre Sherwood - A Disappointing Start for a Long-Awaited Studio I joined Pure Barre Sherwood as a "Founders Member" back in March 2024, excited to support a new fitness option close to home. As a fan of group workouts like Barry's Bootcamp and OrangeTheory, I looked forward to adding Pure Barre to my fitness routine. For 8 months, I followed their updates via marketing texts and Instagram (@purebarresherwood), watching as the studio build-out came together. Finally, on November 11, they opened with VIP and Intro classes. I was thrilled to attend my first class on November 14 at 5:45 pm. As a busy mom of 8-month-old twins and a 5-year-old, arranging childcare is no small feat. Despite last-minute traffic and parking challenges, I arrived exactly at 5:45, only to see the studio door close just as I walked in. At the front desk, I expected a warm welcome or maybe a bit of flexibility for a Founders member's first class during grand opening week. Instead, the co-owner, Amber, directed me to a trainee who told me that, per policy, late arrivals are not allowed to enter the class once the door is closed--no exceptions, not even during the opening week. In today's world, SMS is the go-to for reminders. Email feels like the new voicemail--easy to miss! While I understand the importance of policies in group fitness, a little flexibility or a one-time pass would have made a big difference, especially given the circumstances. The rigid approach left me feeling dismissed and disappointed. Customer experience is critical, especially in a small, community-oriented place like Sherwood. After a long day juggling work, childcare, and arranging an hour for myself, I left feeling deflated. A quick reminder text welcoming me to my first class with policy info or a welcome phone call could have avoided this entirely. To Pure Barre Sherwood: I genuinely love supporting local, women-owned businesses and want to see you thrive, but first impressions count. I hope to see the studio grow with a bit more empathy and attention to customer experience. To Future Guests: Learn from my experience--be sure to review the policies and plan to arrive early. Wishing you a great workout, though I won't be returning. read more

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I've never been a fan of group fitness. It just always seemed like a competition (what you wore, your body shape, if you were clumsy, age). I was a long time member at a community center but found all the classes I wanted to do were during the day and really nothing for those of us who work outside the home. I bit the bullet and joined Pure Barre knowing nothing about it. It was nerve racking heading to that first class of unknowns. But I have to honestly say now that the more I go the more I like it. I am that 57 y/o, chubby and clumsy person working out come join me! read more

This studio is amazing! The staff are so warm and welcoming. The space is GORGEOUS. first class with Jill last night was so challenging but so good! Will for sure be back for more! Can't wait!! read more

I love this location. The front desk staff is friendly and get to know you by name, as do the instructors. It's definitely not stiff and unfriendly in the way some pure barre franchises can feel; there are semipermanent instructors who really make you feel welcome (looking at you, Amanda, Jasmine, Tess!), and you can develop relationships and always ask for help. I also like Jordan the owner's eye for clothing, I've gotten some very cute - albeit expensive - outfits! Plus, there are fun events like art show fundraisers and book clubs. I will say, the location isn't the best (but where in Portland is anymore?), but the staff do a nice job of making you feel secure by locking the door and always being in attendance at the desk during class. Love this place! Oh, and I guess I forgot to mention the actual classes Take pure barre classic and align to start and graduate to the others. You won't be sorry! read more

Took a class with two friends while visiting Portland over New Year's weekend. Excellent class...instructor Britany was super friendly and attentive. Thanks for a great experience! read more

I've been doing barre for less than a year, but the first class I ever took was very overwhelming for me and I was out of breath! I hadn't worked out in a very long time so I wasn't in the best shape, but unlike a GYM, Pure Barre isn't a place of judgment. Everyone is different in body types, ethnicities, fitness levels. The instructors are all positive, friendly, encouraging, and very attentive, and helpful. You not only get an AMAZING and EFFECTIVE workout, but you're surrounded by other empowering men and women that are striving to be stronger; mind, body, and soul. I've been to the Grand Central and Lloyd studios. Recently, Stephanie the owner who is just a ray of sunshine took over this location and transferred her studio's energy into this one! Love the studio. Super cute and good vibes. Some of the instructors from Lloyd teach the classes here too so it's cool to be able to go in between two studios and get your workout in wherever you are! read more

I am officially addicted to Pure Barre! I come to the 6 am classes, Pure Barre makes my day SO MUCH BETTER. I feel energized, accomplished, clear-headed, and just happier overall. Living in North Portland, Pure Barre Pearl District is less than 10 minutes away. The studio is clean, modern, and pretty. They generously offer hair ties, tampons, lotion,-Whatever you need to start the day. And ice cold water, which is a delight after a tough workout! The workout! You will never look at a flight of stairs the same way after taking Pure Barre. Whew, sore muscles! My legs feel like rocks, so hard and toned. I have bad knees so it is tough to find exercise classes--even other Barre brands that are heavy on the squats--that don't irritate my injuries. Pure Barre is very low impact and my knees feel great. The abs section can't be beat. Best ab workout in town. And I really love anything up at the bar, it makes me feel graceful and strong. The staff are great! Its tough to be happy and so sweet at 6 am, but they've figured it out. I was called by name, even as a person new to the studio. I love working out with Hannah, Carly, and Stephanie, they are so sweet and make all the moves look easy. If you're doing something incorrectly, the instructors will come over and show you. I appreciate how the instructors will push the microphone away from their mouths when explaining a move to you, so it is a private conversation between the two of you. I especially love the adjustments offered during stretching at the end of class. I recently tried Empower with Stephanie-the owner. It was like nothing I'd ever experienced before and is a great compliment to traditional PB! Can't wait for next time. Pure Barre in the Pearl District is great for many reasons-that's why I keep coming back! P.S. the music is awesome! read more

I am not graceful, and have never been a dancer, so I did not think I would be much good at barre. I was a little nervous for my first barre class, but the staff here was so kind and friendly and made me feel very comfortable. The workout was challenging, but actually really fun, and I was sore in places I didn't know could get sore. On top of that, it felt like it would be a really safe workout for my lower back. I have back pain, and have to keep my back safe, and this workout felt like it would help to strengthen the necessary muscles to keep the low back safe. read more

Ally, Marisa, Chandra, Amanda, Brittney- all incredible women I look up to as role models in fitness and life. Ally created a community of powerhouse clients who supported one another and considered this group a family. I was 100% obsessed with this workout- but mostly because of the staff. Hell, I'd probably run a marathon if these ladies encouraged me to do so. Yesterday I witnessed a horrific scene of the new ownership's lawyer changing the studio's locks and leaving possessions on the curb- four days early with mere minutes notice. Our previous owner, Ally, was essentially humiliated in front of patrons and business owners in the neighborhood for absolutely no reason other than to personally attack her. A hysterically optimistic sign was posted saying the new management can't wait share surprises with us and will be open in a few days. We sat by and watched as confused clients- some newer, some regulars in the 250 club- showed up for classes that they believed would still be happening, as they were still on the schedule. New ownership did not send out an email or send a representative in person to explain why some people drove over 30 minutes to find a locked studio. The same thing happened today. A few minutes ago we were informed the studio would be closed for the next TEN days. So it was so important that new ownership violently seized the space prematurely, yet the studio won't be in use for a week and a half, and no new staff have even been inside yet? We could have had our last few days as a family in our space, to take a few more classes and say goodbye. Instead- senseless personal attack and power grab. After seeing the way the new owners operate, even for just the last 24 hours, I am disgusted and aching for Ally, her team and my fellow clients. I will no longer give this studio- or any PB studio my money or time, and I know I am one of MANY who feel the same way. I will follow Ally to her next endeavor, and sit by and witness as this business deservedly fails. read more

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Among the barre facilities in PDX, this was by far my favorite! Great energy, fun staff, and much tougher of a work out. 10/10 would go again! read more

This place, is amazing. I have been to the gym, and I always have that thought, "what if people are watching?" Not at Pure Barre! I felt completely at ease going. The instructor was fabulous, and put me at ease. It was harder than I thought, but in a GOOD way! My muscles worked hard, and this is better than the gym, in my opinion. I met the owner, Stephanie. She could not have been nicer!! She answered all of my questions and I felt comfortable asking her the things I wanted to know. Really, all in all it was a genuinely FUN experience for me. If you have ANY hesitation about going, don't hesitate!! I honestly look forward to going back!! read more

I LOVE this place! Absolutely beautiful studio in an amazing location with easy parking in front. The owner and all instructors have created a really welcoming environment. I think this says a lot because they all have rockin' bodies and we all know that can be intimidating! I have tried other barre classes and this by far feels like the best workout - I am definitely hooked. I am a physical therapist and this workout really runs true with me because we are working muscle groups that I am constantly teaching my own clients to help heal injuries and prevent re-injury. Ally the owner also stocks the place with Beyond Yoga apparel that is so comfy and unique - though this is both good and bad because I can't stop buying it! Couldn't recommend this Pure Barre - Pearl location more. It is a must-try. You will love it. You will shake. And you'll keep going back for more. read more

I started doing barre in early 2019 and I am now a lifer. The teachers are the studio are some of the best instructors I've ever had and take the time to help you perfect your practice. I truly believe that you have to find an exercise that you love in order to be consistent about it over time and for me, that's been barre. It is a mix of ballet moves and Pilates moves and that is the perfect formula, I'm my opinion! I have gotten stronger physically (and mentally) over the years and I owe it all to barre. read more

Having recently moved to Portland last fall, I was immediately drawn in by the incredible workout I got from attending Pure Barre in the Pearl, but what kept me coming back was the amazing community of women. Although initially intimidated (how can they all do this everyday?!) I was welcomed in to this powerhouse community by studio owner Ally, and the instructors Marisa, Chandra, Brittney, and Amanda. Over just a few short months, Pure Barre became so much more than a workout, these were my friends, my tribe. After arriving for my regular 5:30pm class last week to find the studio empty and locked with only a note taped on the door, I was deeply shocked and disappointed. I would expect at least someone to be there to greet clients and explain the situation, but there was no such communication for multiple days. The extreme unprofessionalism shown by the new management is something I don't want to be a part of. I can't bring myself to go back to this space that treats its clients with so little regard. read more

After joining at the beginning of the year, I attended the studio on a regular basis. I recommend that when committing to any type of membership, be aware that pausing to preserve your rate due to medical issues seems to be arbitrary. I was very clear that there was a potential for surgery and the staff indicated I could pause my membership if it came to that. Unfortunately the owner told I could not because I joined with a promo rate. I have never had this issue with other studios in Portland and couldn't find this policy written any where. Additionally, it seems to be totally arbitrary as some members could pause while others can not. I would've continued my membership after my recovery had they been more understanding but have made the decision to invest in other studios. If you chose to take classes there, the workouts are great. Both Hannah and Christy are the best instructors. I highly encourage taking their classes. read more

This past winter I was in a funk with my health. I have always been a fairly active person, but it had been over a year since I had worked out. I tried Pure Barre nervously, and have never turned back! Don't get me wrong, the first couple classes are rough getting adjusted to the movements and using muscles you don't know you have, however it is worth pushing through the awkward start! This is the first time I can honestly say that I enjoy working out. I get a lot of joint and back pain when I run and do circuit training type workouts, but haven't experienced that with Pure Barre. It is challenging, yet totally doable! I have tried all of various barre studios, and Pure Barre is by far my favorite workout and atmosphere. The studio is beautiful and clean. I feel like it is my little getaway after work to de-stress and clear my mind. All of the instructors are amazing, professional, and kick your butt! They all have a little bit of their own touch, but the structure of the class and the language they all use is consistent so you always know you're going to get an amazing workout. Pure Barre has completely CHANGED MY BODY! I have tried about every workout program there is out there, and this one works the best for me. I typically get bulky when I workout consistently, but Pure Barre workouts have led to more lean, toned muscles. I have a love hate/relationship with the core sections of the workout. The planks at the beginning and floor work at the end of class are hard, but you guys, I have a flat, toned stomach for the first time ever! I can't say enough how happy I am that I found Pure Barre. read more

This is an intense form of exercise that requires strength in the legs and a lot of strength in the core. I would recommend this class for anyone who likes a challenging but low-impact impact workout. I would not recommend this class for anyone even slightly on the autistic spectrum or anyone who has a sensitivity to light or sound because the workout involves loud music that changes in volume quickly as well as a changing scheme of lights that is a bit intense and could pose problems for anyone who has sensitivities to those types of things. The space was pleasantly clean and inviting, and I found the instructor to be perfectly friendly. The studio offers many packages with varying rates. Everything seems to be fairly priced. read more

I have been coming to Pure Barre for about two months. I started because I had to stop running per doctor's orders, and needed to do low impact exercise. I'll admit, I was lost the first few classes I took, but I kept coming back. I loved the way Pure Barre made me feel. The people who work here are just wonderful! Everyone is super supportive, and makes you feel welcome. I am seeing changes in my body for the better, and am challenged in every single class. They offer a variety of classes, and every instructor adds her own flavor, so it's never the same. Love, love, love Pure Barre! read more

Wow! I've been with pure barre for about 3 weeks now and I absolutely love it! The Pearl location is my favorite and the GM Dylan is absolutely amazing, accommodating, and friendly. All the instructors are a wonderful as well, but a special shout out to Nicolette for being so unbelievably sweet and personable thanks pure barre!!! read more

I just took the reform class with Brandee for the first time and it kicked my ass in a great way. I would recommend this workout as crosstraining for any sport or activity. I am a golfer and It really helps my core stability, overall strength, flexibility and endurance read more

Hard but incredibly satisfying class. Jasmine was an awesome teacher and pushed everyone in the class to be their very best and offered super helpful modifications along the way. I highly recommend taking a class at this beautiful studio! read more

I'm visiting from VA and wanted to come to class to get my day going before a long day of meetings. The absolute perfect way to start the morning! Laura at the front made me feel welcome and Heather was an awesome teacher. Thank you for making my day great read more

This class is not easy , but it made me feel great ! It was empowering & fun ! The instructors are friendly and down to earth and the staff is awesome. Love this place read more

I visited the studio while in town from NYC. I work at the local studio back home and was excited to get a work out in while out of town. Pure Barre is my favorite workout and I love being able to visit studios around the country! I took class with Stephanie and she was amazing - so full of energy and a great class all around. I hope to be back in Portland in the near future to take class again - I highly recommend this studio. Plus it is so cute!! read more

I've been a client at Barre3 (numerous locations) for a couple of years. I'd been curious to try out another barre-style workout studio since more began popping up, so when I saw that this location was offering a free week of classes to new clients, I knew I had to try it. The studio was similar to Barre3, in that it was very clean, and trendy. The instructors were cute and friendly, and not overly pushy about getting me to purchase a membership, which I appreciated. The class itself was similar to Barre, but didn't really have any cardio portion (which didn't bother me). There was more of an ab focus than at Barre3, which I really liked! Overall, I would definitely visit PureBarre again. read more

This is a total body workout that uses a ballet barre to do small movements that help tone and sculpt your body. It's perfect for those that want to look long and lean, I love that the class takes focus and allows you to escape other things and pay attention. They also have great music and I like that the room has carpet. It's almost like a combo of yoga and Pilates, definitely worth a try! read more

I'm new to the Barre world, and it's already rocking my life! I had my first class at the Pearl location this morning. It kicked my butt to say the least, but I can't say enough amazing things. The instructor was great. She came and checked in with me a couple of times during the workout to help me with some modifications and afterwards she was kind enough to help answer some questions I had and encouraged me as well. I'll definitely be back. I can't wait to see how my body and my lifestyle transforms once I make this a habit. read more

Best barre class I've ever been to! I took Asia's class. She was really sweet, positive, and attentive. She was quick to help with posture and alignment when necessary. I'm somewhat new to barre, but I haven't enjoyed a class (or sweat as much) as I did in Asia's! Great workout. Looking forward to going back! read more

I'm so happy to see a Pure Barre in the Pearl district! The space is great, the workout is awesome and I just found out that the new owner is Stephanie from the Lloyd district, which is a huge bonus! Stephanie cares so much about her studios, fitness and the community! I do crossfit, bouldering, running and everything under the sun - Pure Barre is a PERFECT workout for when I have sore muscles but still want to be challenged. It's a great low-intensity but a hard workout for your body. This particular PB is in a great location and is a clean studio. I'd highly recommend it. read more

Attended my first class at this location last week. I've been to a few classes/studios around Portland, and liked this one the most. The instructor was really helpful and encouraging. The facilities are well-kept and parking was easy, as it's free after 7pm. Class size was good, too, and the class itself was challenging in a good way. I plan on coming back soon. read more

I am very uncoordinated and not flexible. The instructor never made me feel uncomfortable. She helped me and gave me tips without drawing attention to others in class. I am a little shy so it was great to not feel like I was being pointed out! Everyone at Pure Barre Pearl was welcoming. The class was so smooth I barely noticed that it was an hour. read more

I really love this studio. I just started when the studio reopened. I find the teachers to be very helpful and friendly. I appreciate that they took the time to have a free 75 minute technique class so we can make the most out of our workouts and increase our abilityt to stay safe. This workout is the most transformative type of exercise I've ever found, and it's totally low impact. I have back problems, foot problems, and I'm going through a mid-life crisis...this exactly the workout I needed! Thank you Cari and Pure Barre! read more

Took my first class today with Darcy. She was very welcoming and the class was challenging but fun! I'll be back

Terrible business practices!! Once I found out Ally, the founder of this studio, was no longer going to be a part of the studio I canceled my membership effective at the end of July. To my surprise I received an email a few days later letting me know that my credit card would be charged for an August membership payment. I called and spoke to the new management Carrie, who quickly told me that I would be charged a $190 cancelation fee, even though I had already canceled my membership in writing. I had never signed a contract for this membership and was now being told that my credit card was going to be charged without my permission!!! I still never got my money's worth for July since classes were abruptly canceled on the day of scheduled classes indefinitely for the new manager to take over. No plan to reimburse long time clients for the canceled classes. No follow up to my phone call promising she would get back to me about a contract that I never signed that she was holding me to. Do not go here!!!!! They are super shady!!!! read more

If you are looking for very intensive, quick speed and hard core training class. This is the one for you. You will definitely sweat during the warm up. Studio is very clean and organized. People working their are very friendly. The class moves very fast and movements change frequently. Teachers are very good at giving out instructions. Your name will not be called out during class. Teachers will not often give you hands on adjustment. I'm looking forward to their new launched empower class. The part I love the most about pure barre is that it is challenging and will make you strong. read more

I took my 2nd pure barre class at the Pearl Studio and loved it! Steph taught a great class, she corrected my form when needed and gave the class encouraging feedback. There was a lot of energy in the studio! I highly recommend anyone looking for a good workout to stop by this studio. It also helped having a teacher take class alongside me. I'll be back! read more

I am a fan of Pure Barre and thoroughly enjoy taking class at the Lloyd district studio when I'm in Portland visiting my family. It's such an incredible workout and I absolutely love the staff. They're friendly, welcoming and all seem to really have a great time with what they do. I was overjoyed when I received the email stating the Lloyd district owners were taking over the Pearl District location and classes could be taken at either studio. I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. The studio is gorgeous, the class is on point and the staff is just as lovely as I remember. I recommend this for anyone looking for a fun and incredible workout. Thanks team! I'll definitely be back! read more

The studio is absolutely stunning! I adore the space and the challenging workouts they provide! Such a great combination of strength and stretch. The new owner, Stephanie Richen, is one of the most positive and powerful people I know! She brings such good energy to her studio, her trainers, and her classes. Prepare to get a killer workout and leave feeling amazing!! read more

I was a loyal member of Pure Barre. Starting out on ClassPass, I quickly realized that Pure Barre was the best option in town! However...that sentiment was linked wholly to the amazing instructors who made Pure Barre what it was. Ally, Marisa, Chandra, Amanda, and Brittney were all amazing athletes and talented instructors. They built up a great community and created an ideal workout environment. However, I was out of town for a month for work and in that time it seems that everything has changed. I had cancelled my account (as I wouldn't be able to attend for that month) with the intent of renewing upon return. But, after hearing that the new management had somehow displaced all the instructors who had made the studio what it is and disrespected women I admire, I have no desire to go back. I didn't renew my membership and have been looking for an alternative option. I have just realized that the new management has taken the liberty of charging my credit card for a new membership in mid-August, despite the fact that I had confirmed cancellation of my account (in writing) in July. I recommend that people avoid this new situation - it is unprofessional, unethical and nothing like what the studio used to be. With so many other wonderful options in the neighborhood, there's no reason to attend the subpar and unprofessional new Pure Barre. read more

CAN'T GET ENOUGH LTB!!! Recently moved to PDX from AZ where I was a pure barre junkie, I was very excited to find that Portland had pure barre! Pure Barre gives me energy and has changed my body in ways no other exercise has! Instructors are great and location is beautiful! If you have never tried pure barre you are missing out!!! read more