• Barre & Pilates FAQs in Bristol and Bath

New to barre, mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates? Find out which class to start with, what to bring and how to book at The Barre Fitness Studio in Clifton, Bristol and Bath city centre.

Choosing a class

  • Barre is a low-impact, full-body strength workout inspired by ballet and Pilates. Expect small, controlled movements, pulses and holds, using the barre for balance during some exercises. Depending on the class, you might also use light weights or a resistance band.

    Your instructor will guide you through each movement and offer options so you can work at your own pace. No dance experience is needed, and yes, your legs might shake!

  • No ballet experience needed. Barre Classic is a good first class at our Bristol and Bath studios. Your instructor will talk you through each exercise and offer options so you can work at your own pace.

    • Barre uses standing exercises, pulses and holds to build strength and muscular endurance.

    • Mat Pilates uses floor-based exercises with a focus on breathing, control and core strength.

    • Reformer Pilates uses a moving carriage and adjustable springs. The springs can support you through an exercise or add resistance, depending on the movement.Engagements range from two weeks for focused audits to several months for comprehensive transformation.

  • Try Reformer Classic at our Bath city centre studio. We have five Reformers, so your instructor has time to show you how the machine works and help you find the right settings. You can find Reformer Classic on our Bath class timetable.

  • One class a week is a good place to start. If you’re enjoying it and feel ready for more, try two or three classes a week. You can stick with a favourite or mix barre and Pilates for a bit of variety.

Your first visit

  • Wear comfortable activewear you can move freely in and bring a water bottle. Grip socks are required for barre, Pilates and Reformer classes. We provide mats and any equipment you’ll need.

  • Please arrive 15 minutes early so we can show you around and introduce you to your instructor. Studio doors are locked when class begins.

  • Barre Classic, Pilates Classic and Reformer Classic are good starting points if you’re getting back into exercise. Take breaks whenever you need them and ask your instructor for options. If you’re recovering from an injury or have a condition that affects how you move, contact us before booking so we can talk through the class options.

  • Please speak to your midwife or healthcare professional for guidance on exercise during pregnancy, and let us know before you book. We recommend Barre Classic where appropriate and advise against group mat and Reformer Pilates after 20 weeks. If you’re new to barre or would like to discuss a private session, get in touch.

  • We offer Barre & Baby, Pilates & Baby and Reformer & Baby sessions, depending on the studio and timetable. You can move at your own pace with your baby nearby. Check the class timetable for upcoming sessions.

Bristol & Bath Studios

  • Our Clifton studio is at 171 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2RY. We offer small-group barre and Pilates classes, including beginner-friendly Barre Classic. Classes typically accommodate 7–9 people, depending on the format.

  • Our Bath studio is at 1 Palace Yard Mews, Bath, BA1 2NH, near Queen Square. Barre and mat classes accommodate up to 14 people, and Reformer classes are capped at five. Select Bath on the class timetable to see what’s on.

  • In Bristol, there’s paid on-street parking on Whiteladies Road and nearby streets. In Bath, Charlotte Street Car Park is about a five-minute walk from the studio. Check local signs for charges and restrictions.

  • Both studios have changing rooms and toilets. Showers are currently unavailable.

Booking and memberships

  • Book through the class timetable or in the Momence app. Select Bristol or Bath, then choose your class and time.

  • Yes. See our current intro offers to find a package for the classes you’d like to try.

  • Yes. A class pack gives you flexibility if your schedule changes from week to week. If you’re planning to come regularly, compare the current memberships to see which suits you.

  • Manage your booking through Momence at least 12 hours before class. If you cancel with less notice, the class will still count towards your pack or membership. Please cancel in the app even if it’s late so someone on the waitlist can take your spot. See our booking terms for details.

  • Yes. Find your personal referral link in Momence and share it with your friend. Your account shows the current referral rewards.

Private classes, events and online workouts

  • We offer one-to-one sessions and private small-group bookings, subject to studio and instructor availability. Contact us with your preferred studio and what you’d like to work on.

  • Yes, we host private barre and Pilates sessions for celebrations and team wellbeing events. Tell us your preferred date, studio and group size using our private events enquiry form.

  • Yes. We run workshops, socials and seasonal classes in Bristol and Bath. Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter to hear what’s coming up.

  • Yes. Our on-demand class library has barre and Pilates workouts you can do at home. Access is available through Momence and may be included in selected memberships.

    Ready to try a class? Explore intro offers or find a class in Bristol or Bath.