Barre3 Milwaukee

My philosophies toward exercise have ebbed and flowed over the years, but one thing has remained the same: if I’m going to workout, I prefer to be tricked into feeling like I’m not. The element of fun is what keeps me engaged and makes me forget about the difficulty I’m putting my body and lungs through. Enter: Barre3.

Barre3 (formerly known as The Barre Code), is located in Milwaukee‘s Historic Third Ward. I’ve been hooked since my very first class, and Barre3 has been my home fitness studio every since.

Here’s what to expect when heading to Barre3 for the first time.

What is Barre3?

Barre3 is a fitness studio that blends strength training, cardio, and mindfulness into a full-body workout. The method focuses on functional movement, balance, and endurance, incorporating low-impact exercises that are both accessible and challenging. It’s a great option for anyone looking to improve flexibility, build strength, and boost overall well-being.

While The Barre Code emphasized a mix of barre, bootcamp, and cardio-based workouts, Barre3 leans into intuitive movement and mind-body connection. Classes are still high-energy and welcoming, but they now place more focus on modifications and alignment, plus opportunities to lift heavier and slower.

The Milwaukee Barre3 is still owned by the wonderful Jamie and is located in the same space in the Third Ward. Jamie made the transition over with her entire team in 2024. Since the rebrand, Jamie has also opened a studio in Chicago, and has plans to start a studio in Milwaukee’s Whitefish Bay area.

What to expect from Barre3

I’ve loved the transition to Barre3. Some things to look forward to include:

• Regularly updated class formats that combine strength, cardio, and mindfulness
• More emphasis on functional movement and core stability
• A welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that encourages body positivity
• A refreshed studio experience with a focus on community and connection. For example, I love that the studio is now phone-free!

Class formats

Barre3 Signature

This foundational class combines strength conditioning, cardio, and mindfulness into a full-body workout. It typically involves weights (there’s a range of light, medium, and heavy), plus props: core ball, circle resistance bands, or long bands.

The instructor guides through large-range movements, isometric holds, and guided breathwork, typically in a 45-minute format. There’s always a quick cardio burst mid-way through class. The goal is to leave feeling balanced, energized, and empowered.

B3 Strength

B3 Strength is my favorite class. These total-body workouts are designed to build strength by lifting a little heavier, a little slower, often focusing on resistance.

Each class works in sets and rounds using weights and resistance bands, as the instructor informs proper lifting techniques and body alignment.

B3 Cardio

B3 Cardio is a circuit-based workout designed to boost aerobic fitness. It involves high-energy and functional movements that target multiple muscle groups, with a special focus on core strength, alignment, and breath.

Though I haven’t taken a cardio class yet, I am a huge fan of the B3 burpee—a well-paced move that makes its way into many signature class formats.

Barre3 FAQ

➤ What should I wear to a Barre3 class?

Wear comfortable, breathable workout attire (you’ll catch most people in a matching set). Socks are required to enter the studio, and they sell sticky socks if you need a pair.

➤ What should I bring to a Barre3 class?

Bring a water bottle, your grippy socks, and a great attitude! The studio provides all the necessary props for the workout. Please leave phones in the (free) lockers provided in the studio.

➤ Do I need previous barre experience?

Nope! Barre3 is designed for all fitness levels, with modifications available for every move. It’s perfect for beginners or seasoned barre lovers.

➤ How to sign up for class?

You can book a class online through the Barre3 website, on their mobile app, or by contacting the studio directly. It’s really easy to reserve your spot! Members are able to book their spots two weeks in advance.

➤ How much does it cost?

There are a ton of different pricing options!

First and foremost, everyone’s first class is free.

From there, it’s $29 per single class. Unlimited memberships are $169/month, or you can sign up for 8 classes a month, 4 classes a month, or bulk-buy a 10-class package. You can also sign up for Barre3 online for $30/month, though it’s included with the unlimited membership.

Learn more here.

➤ Where can I get sticky socks?

You can bring your own socks (I’ve bought pairs from Amazon and Pilabarre), or the studio has socks to purchase on-site if you need some.

➤ What’s the parking situation

The Third Ward studio is all about street parking! It’s metered throughout the neighborhood, and there are a few lots and garages, though they tend to be more expensive. I recommend coming early to secure a spot.

My experience

Initially, the Barre Code created a special place to trick myself into exercising. And while I was nervous about the Barre3 change, B3 evolved and surpassed my expectations.

I love everything about the Barre3 format, and so appreciate the infused values of mindfulness throughout each class. It’s a game changer!

The best part, beyond the movement, the great workout, and the challenging-but-doable moves, is the vibe. Everyone is encouraged to show up as they are, and they do. And most importantly, for me, is that I can rely on Barre3 for an environment fun enough to forget I’m exercising at all.

Try it for yourself

Barre3 is a fantastic option whether you’re a seasoned barre enthusiast or brand-new to the workout. The approach is designed to be empowering, focusing on how movement feels rather than how it looks.

Each time I take a class, I walk away feeling empowered, energized, and proud of myself for making it happen.

If you’re curious, I highly recommend checking out a class—especially with Jamie! You might just feel stronger and ready to take on whatever comes next.

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