Downtown Barre heats up local workout scene

FRI.| 10-17-25 | ENTERTAINMENT

Photo By Campbell Rhodes

For 45 minutes, you can experience burning 100-degree heat, pumping music, shouts of encouragement and an intense workout at Greenville’s newly opened Downtown Barre. This facility officially opened on June 2, while its grand opening event was held just two weeks ago on Aug. 3.

I am not a workout fanatic or “gym rat” as some may call it, but I do enjoy a yoga or pilates class, so this felt like the perfect place to try out. I took my first class, a 20-20-20, on Aug. 14. This class consists of cycling, strength training and core conditioning for 20 minutes each. The intensity of this class completely surprised me. Honestly, I struggled a bit but thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. The three different exercise periods offered a nice mix of exercise segments, resulting in a true full-body workout.

Downtown Barre features 15 different instructors who each bring unique skills to their classes. Some are tougher and really challenge you, while others focus on breathing, listening to your body, and taking what you need. The type of class you are taking can also drastically affect this. A yoga class will be much more personalized and gentle than an intense cycling class.

Since its opening, I have been able to try a variety of classes, and my favorite has been the Infrared Heated Power Sculpt Yoga 45 class, instructed by Julia Petrosso. This class was the perfect mix of challenge and support, and I can attribute a lot of it to Petrosso; She ensured that the class targeted every participant’s needs. I had the privilege of taking this class with some of my friends, which allowed me to spend time with them while doing something productive. Sharing the struggle with someone makes it a super pleasant experience, regardless of the difficulty.

The after-workout feeling is one of the best I can explain; it is both relief to be done and fulfillment knowing you just accomplished something really difficult. The instructors make sure to emphasize this and are always there to help or offer advice even after the class has ended.

The encouragement found at Downtown Barre goes far beyond just the instructor; you are greeted at the door with a smile and an answer to any question you may have, and the whole class works together to get through the class.

Greenville already has Orangetheory Fitness, Club Pilates and Pure Barre, which all offer similar workout styles, but Downtown Barre brings a unique appeal. This new establishment is the first infrared studio in Greenville, allowing customers to intensify their workout and to truly “feel the burn.” The target audience also seems to be slightly younger, especially since it is in the heart of Downtown Greenville.

In addition to workout classes, the building has a Lululemon boutique, providing customers the opportunity to shop for high-end products to elevate their workout experience. I especially appreciate this feature, as it is one of the closest Lululemon dealers with such a large selection of products.

Overall, the environment Downtown Barre has created is motivated, friendly and exciting for all visitors. It has a variety of things to offer, and I would definitely recommend a class for any level.