Pure Barre Opening in Carrollwood This Fall

In the past few months, Carrollwood and Northdale's fitness fanatics have had a plethora of calorie-burning options to choose from.

First, a. Then, a

Now, Pure Barre, a ballet-inspired fitness routine, is about to call Carrollwood home when it opens this November at 12921 N. Dale Mabry Highway near Fletcher Avenue.

After opening its first studio in Michigan in 2001, Pure Barre has branched out to 88 locations nationwide, with Carrollwood being the fourth Tampa Bay location.

We talked to Shannon O'Brien, owner of the Carrollwood franchise, about what customers can expect during a 55-minute class, and whether people with no dance experience should stop by.

Patch: What is Pure Barre?

O'Brien: It's the fastest, most effective way to improve your body using small, isometric movements.

Patch: What methods does the routine use?

O'Brien: It's using the whole technique of isometric movements for different areas. There's a section on arms, thighs, seat, abs. We use a couple different types of equipment, like free weights that are three and five pounds, and mini-balls.

Patch: Will it be set up like a ballet studio?

O'Brien: As far as what the studio looks like, yes. There will be bars around the studio portion, carpet on the floor. You don't have to have any dance experience. If you hold onto the bar, you're good to go.

The front section will have a retail area with workout attire for sale, and knick knacks and jewelry.

Patch: Why is it a good workout compared to others in the area, like gyms or boxing clubs?

O'Brien: I think it's something different. It's a totally different way of working out. Even if you've worked out forever, it's still difficult for people. The more you understand the technique, the harder it becomes.

For more information on Carrollwood's Pure Barre, go to www.facebook.com/purebarretampacarrollwood or follow Pure Barre on Twitter (@pbcarrollwood).