barre

noun

ˈbär 

1

plural barres : a handrail used by ballet dancers to maintain balance while exercising : bar sense 1c

He would work at an accelerated tempo at the barre to build up his strength, and learn to "feel the floor" with his toes to increase the elasticity of his elevation.

—Julie Kavanagh

2

: an exercise regimen that typically utilizes a ballet bar and movements taken from or influenced by ballet training

Barre is also low impact and has a built-in handhold, making it a relatively safe form of exercise.

—Markham Heid

Did I mention that every barre class I have ever gone to includes squats? Lots of squats.

—Kathleen Trotter

Examples of barre in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Members can enjoy spin, various styles of yoga, barre, boxing, TRX, boot camp, pump, HIIT, water aerobics, and more. —Brianna Kamienski, USA TODAY, 9 July 2024

Her fitness routine includes a mix of cycling, barre, yoga, hiking, and weight training. —Jenny McCoy, Outside Online, 27 June 2024

Moen had taken some barre classes and is now hosting her own class at the South Milwaukee Library for about 80 people. —Erik S. Hanley, Journal Sentinel, 23 May 2024

Few exercises in the United States have gained as much popularity over the past decade as barre fitness. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 18 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from Medieval Latin barra

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined at sense 1