This is a wonderful women exercise studio . All the staff are friendly and helpful. Owner Noreen is so kind and sweet. She always takes her time to answer questions, correct your postures. I highly recommend it Please give it a try read more

I really needed to start working out again and bought a Groupon late 2022 and it actually ended up sitting for a while, til close to the expiration date. I finally started and wasn't sure if I would stick to it since I favor high intensity workouts. I am now 1.5 months in, have joined the monthly membership and building this routine and consistency into my life. I love the breathing that takes place and it's been a really nice form of de-stressing (full time working mom of 2 kids). I've taken classes from different instructors and what I love is that each class is taught a little differently; they have their own routines. I have not felt like I've taken the same class twice. They really help you with adjustments and while I felt like I kept getting corrected, they're really intentional about helping you improve on your form and most importantly, being safe with your body. All the instructors and front desk receptionists are friendly. I'm really enjoying this new community. If you're looking to get back into being active, get curious and take a class! read more

The best barre workout, hands down. The SM bar Method difference: 1. Instructors walk around the room during class, paying particular attention to your form, correcting you via verbal cues or a gentle manual adjustment. This ensures you are doing the exercises correctly and optimizes results! 2. Instructors make it a point to know your name, making the experience much more welcoming and personal. read more

Really love bar method! Teachers here are all great and friendly. They try to know your name and make sure you're doing the exercises properly. There are 60+ year old women in my classes who kick my butt in strength, flexibility, endurance. They usually have specials if you're hesitant to commit. What I like about bar method is that they give you time to stretch in between some of the routines which help to build lean muscle. Think of it as a combo of pilates and ballet. read more

The workout, the instructors and studio is amazing. During the pandemic, needed to find a workout to get me out of my work from home funk and bar was it. Been going for 1.5 years and am so glad l signed up, it's worth it. Great total body workout. read more

This place challenges muscles you didn't know exist!! Studio is clean. The instructors are amazing! I wish they offer more class times.

This place is amazing! The teachers are ALL excellent. They know that you are a new student until your 10th class. They make you feel welcome, they know you by name, and they adjust you so you do the exercises properly and get the maximum benefit. The teachers are well-trained, professional, and understand body movement well. They are likely to be in their 40s+ and can help you avoid injury or adjust exercises if you do have an injury. I have an imbalance due to a 38-year-old right artificial hip, and through class I discovered muscles in my right hip flexor that were asleep! They are now learning to engage. I have seen a change in my body, as well as my mental state. Classes are uplifting and challenging and encouraging and exciting, all at the same time. (After 6 weeks, I saw my 28-year-old athlete-daughter, and she noticed there was some definition in my arms!!) During my first month, many ladies welcomed me and told me these things: --"this is what I do, just for me. I've raised my kids, launched them, and it was time to do something for myself" --"this is the first exercise class I've done where I can see a difference in my body" --"I am cheap, but to me, this is well worth it" --"it makes you feel so good when you are done, doesn't it?" --"I think it helps a lot with my balance. A couple times I've almost tripped, and I believe the core muscle strength I've gotten from the classes helped me to avoid falling" And yes, the place is spotlessly clean! Do this for yourself-you'll be glad you did! Judy K read more

I've been coming to Bar Method for 10+ years and I still love it. The instructors are tough, knowledgeable , fun and somehow make the time fly by. I've noticed a difference in both strength and flexibility. They come out with new choreography and updated types of classes so it's never boring and continues to challenge me. read more

I've been taking classes here for 15 years and still enjoy each and every class! The instructors are true experts and care that you do the poses correctly and safely. The community is friendly & supportive as well. I highly recommend Bar Method in San Mateo! read more

Bar Method is the best method! The best studio and best instructors around. Kind, energetic and supportive. After taking one class I was hooked.. After 7 years I still love it as much as when I first started. read more

I just finished the 1 month introductory student special @ $100 so I feel like I can give a fairly accurate review: First, the facilities are great...nice, large showers, secure lockers...and best of all, free SOCKS (to borrow). I am someone that always always forgets their socks & this has saved me many times. Second, the teachers...some are harder than others. They are all in insanely great shape...so much so that you kind of want to kill them a little bit (especially when they're correcting you). Third, the class itself. This class will kick you ass, literally. The Bar Method is a blend of pliates, yoga & ballet. You use the bar as your support (unfortunately, it doesn't involve actual booze). All the moves are very small, but incredibly powerful. I got more burn out of this class than anything I've done using weights. What I like best, however, is that the class forces you to stretch. As someone who's not so good about the post-workout stretch, this is excellent as I can finally touch my toes! I've had a moment in every class where I ask myself WHYYYY do I pay for this kind of pain... But 1 month later, I can definitely see the difference. My abs are flatter, and miraculously, my inner thighs have slimmed down. Now the question is - will I go back? At $20 a class or $225 unlimited per month.. ($200 if you do auto-bill for 6mths)...it's definitely steep. If you're someone who has a trainer - I'd go for this instead. If you're capable of doing your own work-outs at the gym...$225 can buy a pretty sweet membership at some of the nicest gyms in the Bay Area. So, for now, I think I'll chance it with the gym...but if that muffin top comes back, my non-Lululemon covered ass will be going back. PS. If you have an aversion for MILF or MILF-in-training types with their ginormous rocks & Lululemon gear...I'd do some deep breaths before entering as this place is CRAWLING with them. I felt entirely inadequate and almost, almost bought $84 pants. PPS. Be warned that Rainbow Pizza is a hop-skip away...do not come to class starving or else you will be tempted. PPPS. This class also attracts a decent amount of law enforcement types. Good if you're into that kind of thing. PPPPS. The latest classes are the least crowded. I'd recommend those. read more

Burn baby burn... After an hour; my buns and thighs were on fire... And shaking! I read about the Bar Method and after doing more research, I finally signed up for the new client special. The classes are very pricey at $24 per session; considering most yoga/pilates studios top out around $18 per class. The instructors at this location are more hands on and actually go around correcting students compared to the PA location. (I think it actually depends on which instructor it is....) The locker rooms/showers are clean and tidy and the classes make my thighs and legs shake. I never gave "1 inch" that much respect until I took Bar Method classes. Just thinking of these tiny little isolated movements that I have to do makes the fat on my body quiver in fear. The scheduling process on the web is a bit confusing especially with the waitlist options... read more

I have been taking classes here for over two years and love the whole experience. The teachers are the best, the studio is very clean and modern, and it is always a challenge. Great for a woman's body and spirit. read more

Looooove to Shake, Lift, Tuck. The Bar is so addicting. They accommodate to your injuries and the teachers are always there to support & encourage you. The community is awesome and everyone is so friendly! Studio is very clean all the time! read more

The Bar Method - San Mateo - Barre Classes Near Me - San Mateo, California

Haven't met a class or instructor that I haven't liked! Everyone is friendly, knowledgable, and kind at the SM Bar Method. ' Additionally, the facility is spotless. Showers are clean. Main room well-lit and well-ventilated. Very nice location. read more

Been a Bar Method addict since my very first class in May 2011. Almost 4 years later, I'm in it for life! The music is fun, the choreography is ever evolving, the teachers are caring, and the facilities are clean and well maintained. Owner Noreen is a tough instructor in the classroom and a dear friend outside of it. She helps with injury modifications and she is very inspiring both physically and verbally. Her teaching staff, which I joined only last year, is filled with experienced hot bodies who remember your name and aren't afraid to put their hands on you when you need extra form corrections or more challenging options. Manager Vanessa is helpful, knowledgeable and personable, as is the entire desk staff. The facilities recently expanded to include an upstairs studio and, in 2015, a childcare room for all the hot mommas getting their sexyback back. ;) 5 Stars on all counts! read more

See all

This is the first place that I did a bar-style workout, and I've tried many others --- but Bar Method is the best. BM has a consistently difficult workout and the instructors are attentive to their program and clients. I'm frequently the only male in the class but I always feel invited, welcome, and I always get a great workout. After a certain number of classes (I believe 25) you become eligible to attend the more intense "move" workout. Killer. It's truly a facility that accommodates beginners to advanced, very well. The only drawback with BM in San Mateo is that it's frequently so popular so you need to plan ahead to get a spot. I'd also like to see more weekend options for classes. Overall, a fantastic experience. read more

super professional, all the instructors are knowledgeable, challenging safe workout every time! this place is a gem! and everyone I NICE!

I'm about to end my one month trial here and I have to say that I'm definitely hooked to the Bar Method. I love how the most simple, small movements can be excruciating after doing it 20+ times and that you can definitely feel those muscles burning and legs shaking, i mean REALLY shaking. I'm seeing and feeling a difference already and I'm definitely looking forward to the day where I can wear a size 4! The instructors are in amazing shape and definitely an inspiration. The facilities itself are really nice and the instructors are very helpful and encouraging. The only thing that I'm not too keen on are some of the snotty cougars that attend this class. But then again, it's kinda funny to see them in full makeup and competing with each other with their lululemon gear and the huge rocks on their fingers. whatever. but i'm not holding that against this studio! or lululemon! The monthly dues are expensive ($225/mo) but if you go 3-4 times a week, it's totally worth it...especially if you can see and feel changes without changing your diet! And who wants to diet? read more

Of all the workout classes I've ever taken, Bar Method tops the list. I started coming about two months ago and was instantly hooked. I'm recovering from two car accidents last year that left my back, neck, and hips very sore and not functioning properly. I haven't walked correctly in almost a year, despite physical therapy. My seventh bar method class was the one-as I walked out of the studio after class I felt my hips release and I began to walk normally. Tears came to my eyes as I realized there was hope that I could resume my life. I've now taken over thirty classes (about 4 times or more per week) and I keep feeling better and better. But wait, there's more! I'm not a morning person, yet somehow bar coaxes me out of bed for 6am classes over and over. I haven't experienced any other exercise that has changed my body so drastically. Since starting bar method, I'm down about 8 lbs and my muscles have become defined and lean. Next stop, six pack! In addition to the great workout, the studio itself is cozy, clean and welcoming. The locker room feels more like your own bathroom and is impeccable. You can tell they take great pride in the maintenance of the studio. The staff is wonderful and always remembers your name they joke and are always there to help with technique and provide encouragement. If the workouts, atmosphere, and staff weren't enough, they throw in added bonuses like bar bingo to bring people together and add to the fun. Note to the fellas, while I do see some of you in bar, there aren't many. I recommend it to all, though know that there is a men's restroom, but not shower. I LOVE THIS PLACE!! read more

The Bar Method is such a great workout if you want to tone your body and stretch it out in the same workout. This gym is very clean and all the instructors are awesome. I love that you can book your classes online and are able to cancel up to one hour prior to the class. It also has the added benefit of being associated with the Bar Method gym in Palo Alto so when you join or buy classes you can utilize both gyms. read more

Bar method is a great way of getting lean, and working on the three parts of your body that seems to be the most difficult: abs, ass, and thighs. I did unlimited classes for six weeks, and what a difference it made. The first day I felt like throwing up. Left class early much to my embarrassment. But as my stubborn self, I powered through the rest of the weeks and felt myself getting better. Each workout only lasts 3 to 5 minutes, but its a lot of reps. Their is a good amount of stretching as well. My arms definitely feel toned. If it wasn't as pricey, I would keep coming here. Favorite instructors are Tanum, Tyler, Catherine, Gigi and of course Jada! read more

Wow. I'm shocked. I decided to take a Bar Method class as I figured why not - this is only the 100th type of exercise I've tried!!! Admittedly, I don't love to exercise but this is something completely different. I love going and know this is a great health benefit. I have been going regularly for about six months now, not bored at all and loving the increased strength and balance I have. Every class is a challenge... The teachers are well-trained and professional... And the studio is clean!! Note: ALL the instructors are excellent. The only downside is that it is pricey :( read more

I started going here in June of 2014 and I haven't stopped since!! I'm kind of an exercise nut but I've only done cardio (like running and spinning). Bar perfectly rounds out my exercise routine and "other" parts of my body too :-) I'm not stick thin but I've never been a big girl, and kind of boyishly straight. That said, since starting bar, I discovered I actually have a waist!!!!! Now I'm afraid to miss my classes!! The teachers are great, very helpful, and funny just when you need it the most. read more

If your looking for a great workout to get your body toned this is the place to go. The workout room is clean and relaxing and the instructors provide great feedback to push you to your maximum ability. I have only been to 3 classes so far and I can already see a difference in my flexibility and strength. read more

I've only just started my one month introductory package (1 month, unlimited classes, $100) and so far I'm really impressed. My body is sore, and I feel skinnier already! I even had trouble holding up my sandwich today...how sad is that? Anyhoo, Hawaii is in one month, and if I can keep up, I know I'll be bikini body ready. I'm not sure any program can get me a model body, but this will be close enough. Back to the review: the facilities are really nice with showers, towels, lockers, hairdryer, hair bands, etc. People are nice. Location seems to be a bit random. Other than the intro month package, the prices are high (but I've been told the results are worth the investment). You can also buy the DVDs at this location. Look up the Bar Method in SF, and you'll find more reviews. read more

I wanted to try a new kind of workout and based on Yelp reviews and at the very vocal urgings of a friend who's been going to Bar Method in SF regularly for a year. This is a unique experience. First, unlike your regular gyms, there is an upscale ambiance. I learned that the owners designed the space, and I immediately liked them within a minute. Why? the place was light and bright, a nice black solid wood table at reception, blond colored woods and mirrors, and bamboo flooring. Almost felt like I'd entered an expensive day spa rather than a gym. Beautiful white towels, nice cabinetry and free lockers, Grohe taps and faucets for the showers which were laid with a dark grey/black tile - faultless! You begin by hanging off the wall bars in the entryway to loosen up, open up your chest/back. That's the easy part. The class is at a great pace and if you're not feeling so fit, simply slow down! It's not a competitive sport. Laura, one of the owners, ran our class and had the right level of energy and coaching style for me. yep, even though I did a 100 mile bike ride a few months ago and am in moderate shape, these moves and holds had my calfs, abs, thighs quivering and jiggling!!!! The moves are varied, distinctive, controlled and wonderful for mind and body. Price-wise, it is not over the top compared to your facial or hair salon bills. Most yoga places charge $15 per class, I've found, so the $20 per session here seems of better value PLUS childcare services are available at another small fee. Excellent for the stay at home mom's schedule. I'm tempted to drag my husband in - not sure if this is a women's only kind of club now that I think of it. Go. Check it out. Feel your glutes. Then you can go to Baskin Robbins guilt-free read more

Love the Bar Method! The teachers & staff are amazing! You can really tell the difference with your body getting toned and fit! Love, love, love the results! read more

I purchased a really great Living Social deal to try Bar Method for one month of unlimited classes. Within the one month I went to 11 classes taught by Erin, Valerie, Amanda or Kim K. It was very easy to register for and cancel classes online or using the Mind Body Connect mobile app. FYI the cancellation window is 2 hours. On the day of my first class, I remember thinking the reception area was clean and bright. The woman at the front desk was friendly and after filling out a waiver, she gave me a mini-tour of the space. Upon entering the carpeted studio, I immediately noticed a strong, unpleasant odor. Of course with any smell, with time you get used to it, but each time I entered the studio I was really put off by the stench of sweat. This was my very first time doing any sort of barre class so I obviously looked like a newbie. What I didn't totally appreciate was being constantly called out by the instructor. It felt so excessive that it actually kind of made me feel stressed out and relieved when it was over. This happened for my first 3 classes or so until there were other newbies (who likely also purchased the Living Social deal) for the instructors to call out. Another thing I didn't like was how crowded the classes were. With 20+ people in each class it felt like you were in a can of sardines. As soon as one class finished another one entered and it was just too much of a traffic jam with everyone trying to go in and out of one standard-sized doorway. Regarding the actual exercising itself I was expecting more time spent using the barre but there were other exercises done using the main floor space. All in all I do think the classes are an effective workout to supplement other types of exercise but I could never solely just do barre. With so many different instructors I think the key is finding one you really like. They all play different kinds of music and I think that sets the mood differently for each student. Would I ever try barre again? Yes, maybe. I wouldn't rule it out, however after reading other reviews it seems that every barre studio has various pros and cons and you just have to find the best fit for you. read more

I attended The Bar Method several months ago and as I was writing a review on another business, Yelp reminded me that I hadn't finished this one! What I have to say about the Bar Method is very simple: How to look good Naked- 1. Attend Bar Method classes 2. Rinse 3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 to achieve desired results Seriously, one of the most kick-ass and effective exercise classes out there. Online scheduling, clean locker rooms, great staff and watchful instructors. Awesome. read more

Best exercise studio focusing on core muscles. Teachers are excellent, energetic and friendly. Love the daily class schedule which offers early morning, noon and evening classes. The app makes it easy to reserve and cancel classes. Checkout the website and try the new student special...$99 unlimited for 30 days. read more

My girlfriend in San Diego challenged me to try the Bar Method. She had been raving about it for months. For the $100 intro rate, I figured I could sacrifice the cost of a new pair of shoes for it. Well, I just finished my first week of the Bar Method...and like many other yelpers, I am addicted! For someone who has joined countless gyms and spent hundreds of dollars running endlessly on the tread mills or trying to remember how to set the weight machines, the steeper price of the Bar Method is personally a more valuable investment. I will just have to adjust my budget and minimize my un-necessary shopping. I will still go to Optimal Fitness (my gym in San Carlos) for light cardio and the infrared spa (I don't really work out a sweat with the Bar) ; but by far, I am seeing and feeling firmer results with the Bar. As far as the members...contrary to some reviews, I've found the people to be very nice...at least at the San Mateo facility. I've only encountered females...and like me, I bet most of them are working moms on a tight schedule. They just want to get in, work-out and get out. No time for socializing. No offense. But if you initiate the conversation (note: anybody who knows me knows that I am not shy and will talk to just about anyone), they are very cordial and pleasant. read more

I love this studio. Have been taking classes consistently for about a year and have never felt more fit or strong in my life. The staff are professional, friendly, supportive and fun. I especially like the challenges and games that pop up every few months and will continue to come back! read more

Feel the burn. Breathe out. Sink deeper. Tighten your core. I could go on & on & on with all these little incentivizing statements thrown your direction in any given class of Bar Method. It is honestly one of THE best workouts I have ever had! As mentioned in my review of Exhale in NYC, these forms of exercise test you to your limits and you love each and every minute! Well, maybe not when your legs are literally shaking trying to make it to count 20... What is Bar Method? I describe it as the most intense combination of Pilate's, yoga, core strengthening and controlled movements - all set to the pumping tunes of the instructors iTunes playlist. The combination of movements, through dedication and time with the studio, show results of: lean, firm and elongated muscles, muscle definition throughout the entire body, improved posture, stronger defined abs and increased stamina. Bottom line: the class is unlike any other; it will kick your butt with such extreme force that you will beg for mercy ... with a gleaming smile and a growing addiction to attend the next class and the next and the next ... I found Bar Method last year - heard about it thru friends and finally went down for my introductory class. WOW! I was welcomed in with such a warm response and eagerness to train me on each & every move and the intricacies of them all. The studio is beautiful - small but beautiful. There are 2 workout rooms that can accommodate larger classes or the smaller more intimate ones. I have only been in the smaller room once - that shows you the popularity. The locker room is minimalist - just the necessities: lockers, showers, counter tops with hair dryers and toiletries - all immaculate. The owners - FABULOUS! Laura * Noreen The instructors - AMAZING! Tina * Chris * Danielle * Julie I have to admit that I took a little "hiatus" from Bar for a few months -- travel, got sick, got lazy ... ya know!... I started back on my Spring time fitness kick running every morning and wanted to get back into my love of the Bar (and I'm not talking about the place where I order a martini). I scheduled my class and walked in, a bit intimidated of coming back after a few months - but what the heck! Gotta get right back on that horse! When I walked thru the doors, Laura ran from behind the desk and gave me a big hug and "welcome back Nicole"! Okay now - THIS IS FABULOUS!!! In case you can't read between these lines - not only do you get an amazing workout, but the owners and instructors get to know you - they become your friends and your buds. You look forward to a class like this!!! I am back and in full swing of my Bar Method addiction! read more

You won't believe the difference this class makes to your body. I was skeptical at first but if you take it regularly you should see dramatic results in your strength and muscle tone. The routines change frequenly which keep the class interesting and challenging. The teachers are all very friendly and helpful. The class rates are on the high side but worth splurging for. read more

I've been doing the bar since 2006. It's literally the only exercise class that I've consistently kept up with. Through the years, they have added a variety of difference classes to keep it fresh and interesting. It's always a challenge! The studio is nice and clean; and the owners and teachers are so friendly and helpful. Ibar Method! read more

I hadn't really worked out consistently since I was in high school (embarrassing), but I have been going to Bar Method 4-5 times a week since June and I am totally hooked. Unfortunately, I recently moved away and there isn't a Bar Method near me -- the closest thing is Pure Barre, which I'd also heard a lot about. I missed Bar Method a lot and decided to try the new member package at PB in an effort to find a similar experience -- how wrong I was. All it's really done is highlight how much better Bar Method is than their competitors. There are a number of things that make it such a great experience and form of exercise: 1. The personalized attention. It initially freaked me out a little when the instructors would call me out in the middle of class, but I came to appreciate all the personal feedback I was getting. Instructors also spend a lot of time setting up the exercises, with lots of emphasis on holding your arms just so, etc. Class often feels like a personal training session, which means I got great bang for my buck. Pure Barre and Dailey Method (which I've also tried) do NOT offer the same level of detailed instruction and feedback. Luckily, the classes are similar, so I wasn't as lost as I'd be if I didn't have a solid understanding of how the exercises should be done (thanks to Bar) 2. The class is structured sensibly. After you work a muscle group, you stretch. The class alternates this way: work arms, stretch arms, work thighs, stretch thighs, and so on. Because of all the stretching, I developed long, lean muscles instead of bulking up. I also wasn't as sore the next day. 3. There's a great variety in the exercises. The classes are all structured the same in terms of working muscle groups in a certain order, but they're different in terms of the exercises done from one day to the next. That's why I can go five times a week and not get bored. The five classes I've taken at Pure Barre have had the same thigh and seat exercises each time. I'm only two weeks in and am already getting bored. 4. The instructors are great. Tanum, Gennis and Karolyn are my favorites, but I've only been in one class where I wasn't crazy about the teacher. They're all fit and toned, but none are rail thin 5. The studio is nice, with lots of light and a locker room with showers and two bathrooms. Other studios I've been to aren't as spa-like. I miss SM Bar Method a lot -- I try to go whenever I'm in town. As opposed to Pure Barre, where the music is loud and the pace is frantic, I leave Bar Method classes feeling zenlike and, well, hot. I noticed a big change in my body and was getting compliments from all sides (even from people who I didn't think would notice). I didn't drop much weight, but I can't remember a time when I've looked or felt better. read more

5 stars all the way. Love the studio vibe from Noreen the owner, and her classes are fantastic! I love teacher Ciara and Gennis - always correcting my form in the tiniest ways to get a better workout for a better body. I love the challenge still after 4+ yrs of coming to 6am class x 3 days a week. Still doesn't get any easier! There are classes anytime of day you need, fabulous workout, cardio if you really use your core, and a staff who knows how to make it burn but also to modify if you are in recovery mode. Can't say enough positive about Bar Method San Mateo!! read more

I have a feeling that I can become a hot mom when I start The Bar Method :) Based on my dear yelpers' reviews here, I decided to take one class to see how it is. It nearly killed me. I probably can't described myself as a hard core fitness person, but before I was pregnant, I worked out everyday, and I did all kinds of workout. When I was pregnant, I still did modified exercise. Among my friends, I would say that I have pretty good stamina and strength. And most of all, I have good mind power when it comes to pushing myself to exercise. I took an 8:30 a.m. class on Friday, it was taught by Janell, and only the first 15 minutes of class, I was already feeling the pain. After the class when I was paying, I couldn't even hold my credit card right. I couldn't really kneel, sit, or walk on Saturday, and I'm going back next week. Like some yelpers mentioned, members there are not that nice. No one was mean to me, but when I met eye contact with some people there, I smiled, and no one smiled back. Was it too early in the morning? I don't know. Still, one lady helped me out with my position, and yes, the instructor was helpful and nice. The facility is nice and clean. I like it. Anyways, I'm definitely taking the advantage of the new member special, and I'm hoping that my newborn will work with me that I can go to class as much as I can this month. I took one star off also because of the insanely high price. I wish it would be more affordable. But if I really am a hot mom after this month, then maybe I'd say it's worth it to pay that much. read more

Love this place. Its immaculate and welcoming. The owner had pink hair for a while and that was a real selling point for me because bougie places like this can feel uptight, but she's totally not. Super professional and did I mention clean?? Killer workout. Love this place so much. read more