I've been lifting, toning and burning at Pure Barre Phoenix for almost three months. My initial experience/impression was, this is so challenging? Why can't I figure out which muscle I'm supposed to be working? Why can't I look like that slim leggy gal (15 years my junior) in my activewear? (Not going to happen. I'm petite. I've got a mom body.) I asked questions. If I'm doing something wrong, the instructors adjust my form. The instructors are so nice, so encouraging, so fit, and flexible. I'm in awe. I'm super motivated to stretch a little longer, drop a little deeper. The atmosphere of the workout studio is very franchise/corporate. (I don't mind the beige paint, black & white photos, but sometimes I need something else to look at while I'm internally cursing the quick tempo.) I attend about 4 classes a week and appreciate that while the first 5-10 minutes are the same, the instructors really mix up the workout. I am stronger. I am more flexible. I've got noticeable definition in my arms, abs, and legs. If you can take a "breaking down the barre" class, do it. I had a couple breakthroughs at the class I took last weekend.