I've been to Pure Barre a couple of times in the past but it's been a while since I reviewed it so here we go!

I had a free class coupon from an event I attended a few months ago and it was expiring this week so I needed to take advantage of the freebie before it was too late. The only night that worked for me was Wednesday which made the class more challenging than anticipated because I had already worked out for 2 hours in the morning. Not one to miss out on a free class, I went anyways.

The studio, located right by Columbus Circle is intimate and lovely. The staff greet you and make sure you are all set for class. Pure Barre classes use light weights, bands and tiny movements to tone your entire body. Even though you are using a 2-3lb weight, you are going to feel the burn real fast.

Meaghan was a great teacher. She came over to correct postures regularly throughout the class. As a newbie she came and helped me out numerous times which was super helpful. The 55-minute total body conditioning class went by pretty quickly and my muscles certainly felt it. My legs were shaking, my core was burning, you get the picture. It was hard.

Pure Barre is the type of class that I think with regular visits would really transform your body. Due to many scheduling conflicts (marathon training, cycling teaching, etc) this hasn't really been possible for me, but it's something I'd love to explore in the future (perhaps a 30-day barre challenge?). The classes and monthly packages are also pretty pricey which I have a hard time getting past (price varies by location- in NYC 1 month unlimited is $295 or pay $33 per class).

I think if you have a big event coming up (for example, your wedding), I believe Pure Barre would be a really awesome way to get toned and sleek. Not to say that other workouts bulk you up, but I think Pure Barre is the ideal workout if you're after a dancer-like look.

There are studios across the country, but if you can't make it or it's too much money, they also offer a bunch of at-home DVDs. The lovely folks at Pure Barre just sent me Studio Series 1 & 2. I'll be trying them out and will let you know how it goes. If I can swing it, I'd love to do an at-home Pure Barre DVD 1-2 times per week (well, maybe after marathon training ends).

If you get a chance, I'd recommend going to the studio for a couple of classes to get the form down, then switching to the DVDs if an at-home free workout is more your style.

This morning I checked out a class at the new Refine Method studio, located on West 72nd Street (previous home to Soul Cycle). The class was unlike any I've taken before. Read on and see if this might be a good workout for you.

About Refine Method:

Refine is a boutique fitness studio (3 NYC locations) leading small group classes in a seamless circuit-style workout (otherwise known as Metabolic Resistance Training). The studio is new and likely still gaining a following so there were only 4 students in my 7am class, which allowed for a lot of one-on-one attention. This was great for a newbie like myself since our wonderful instructor Nicole helped every student establish the correct form. Even if the class was at capacity, there are only a small number of stations so even at it's biggest, the class would still be intimate.

The class started with about 10 minutes of stretching (with and without a foam roller). Once we were nice and loose we began our circuit training. Each student has their own area to work in which includes a pulley system, a mat, kettlebells and sliders. There are other pieces that are used in the workout, depending on what circuits you are completing (each class is different so the equipment varies per class). The circuits this morning were a combination of cardio moves (running in place, jumping jacks, jumping squats, etc), weighted moves with the kettlebells and pulley system (squats, lat pulls, etc), push ups and planks. Some moves left you out of breath, others lead to shaky muscles. The class used a variety of moves to work different parts of your body. The class ended with about 10 more minutes of stretching.

Overall, I enjoyed the class. It wasn't the most strenuous workout I've ever had, but we'll see if I have sore muscles in the morning. As I did the moves I certainly felt it. I also liked that this was a unique workout. . I've done circuit training before but the style and set up at Refine Method was different than what I've done in the past. I also like that every time you go back you will get a different workout. The class was an hour and the time flew by.

I spoke with this mornings instructor, Nicole, briefly after class. I really enjoyed Nicole's style- she was very knowledgeable and sweet, plus she had a good playlist. She told me that most instructors, including herself, have a dance background but this class is unique in that it goes beyond the standard Barre Class- I completely agree.

If I could change something about Refine Method- I'd add some mirrors to the studio. I always find it helpful to correct my form when I can get a view of myself.

Is Refine Method For You?

This workout is great for all levels of fitness. If you are new to working out or new to circuit training specifically, the small group setting is perfect. You will get personal attention and will be able to master the moves with the help of your instructor. The price is a little steep- $32 per visit (but slightly cheaper if you buy a package). Unsure about shelling out the money? Luckily, your first class is only $16 (50% off the standard price) so get out there and give it a try! More pricing details available HERE.

*Photo Credit: NYMAG.com