Possibly the best workout in the world...
If you live in a city that has a Barry’s Bootcamp aka Barry’s, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve heard of it. Established in Los Angeles in 1998, Barry’s now operates over 80 studios across 15 countries. It has established a cult-like following amongst it’s target market of mass-affluent, fitness conscious, city dwellers and continues to grow from strength-to-strength.
Those indoctrinated can’t explain it, it’s just so much better than any other gym workout you’ve ever experienced, and for those who know someone who goes (everyone knows someone who goes), they can’t quite understand why you can’t stop talking about it.
But what is Barry’s secret sauce? With a price tag of £24 per class in London it is not it’s competitive price point. There is something special that goes on in those studios that keeps people coming back whilst also trying to convert everyone and anyone who will listen.
The Trainers — aka ‘the talent’.
Anyone who takes a gym class knows, a great trainer makes a workout. That’s why at Barry’s they have an instructor first ethos and are obsessed with hiring the best trainers to deliver a consistent, high-quality performance no matter where in the world you train. CEO Joey Gonzalez refers to the trainers as ‘the talent’ and the star of the show — every class is their time to shine. There really is something for everyone. Whether you like uber-camp energy with shameless pop -classics or prefer the more androgynous nonchalant vibe accompanied by intense techno — they’ve got you covered. Regulars soon find their favourites and knowing how fundamental they are to the experience will avoid an unknown trainer at all costs!
Trainer first runs through the DNA of Barry’s. If you haven’t already sussed it out, Barry (Barry Jay) is the founder and original trainer. US CEO Joey Gonzalez is a former instructor who worked his way through the ranks and still teaches regular classes today. As does UK CEO Sandy Macaskill who welcomes A-list clients including none other than David Beckham to his classes.
The Workout — the best workout in the world.
Sweat towels are complimentary on arrival and for good reason. The workout is off the chart good. So good its known as ‘the best work out in the world’ and some claim to burn up to 1000 calories per class.
Barry’s signature 60-minute class combines high intensity interval runs on beautiful Woodway treadmills with high intensity interval weight and bodyweight training. Most classes alternate several times between the two but for extra spice you might be thrown a Dirty 30 #ifyouknowyouknow.
Whilst every class is unique, the daily muscle focus is the same across all studios all over the world so, you don’t need to worry if you can’t move your arms on a Tuesday:
Yes it’ll get you in great shape, but mega fans will soon tell you it’s more than just a workout, it’s a feeling. A feeling of complete elation (that will be the endorphins hon) and escapism you experience from the moment the first beat drops.
The emotional attachment that Barry’s has managed to cultivate amongst its clientele is unrivalled. Don’t even talk to a Barry’s client about 1Rebel or dare I say Orange Theory!
The Red Room — flattering lighting will get you everywhere.
The signature Red Room is where the magic happens and regardless of how sweaty and disgusting you feel, the lighting is unquestionably flattering. By accident or design, the Red Room somehow makes abs you didn’t know you had appear and clients feel seriously sexy whilst they bust a gut. Warning, shirts are coming off!
Don’t worry, you can also be sure that regardless of how chiselled the clientele might be, nobody is looking at anyone other than themselves. This is a you versus you game. There is a reason one of their popular loyalty challenges is called ‘face yourself’.
The Fuel Bar — did you even go to Barry’s if you didn’t get a shake?
A wallet denting post-workout habit that will set you back anywhere from £6–£12 a pop, the Fuel Bar at Barry’s UK grossed almost 10% total revenues in 2021. Because, just like everything else at Barry’s, there is something uniquely delicious and creamy about their shakes that keeps you wanting more. Despite the price tag, you definitely get good bang for your buck, these shakes are seriously filling. Whilst they are not meant to be a meal replacement #overheardatbarrys …you’ll need some serious appetite if you need to eat anything for hours after knocking back one of these bad boys.
So there you have it, from the workout to the walkout, Barry’s have you covered. And that’s what makes Barry’s the best workout in the world…probably.
The end.
