Barry’s Bootcamp, the training facility that takes pride in being a military-like, ass-kicker. The minute I walked into their Uptown location I felt intimidated, but I had heard such great things about it that I knew I couldn’t back down!

According to their website, the 55-minute class focuses on “running faster, lifting more, and leaning out”. Everyone enters “the red room” as they call it. The room is split; treadmills line one mirrored wall while the other half is individual stations for weights. There is only vibrant, red lighting which makes the space seem more intense. I started out on the weight section doing circuits with pulses. Every class varies, but we began by focusing on legs and glutes while the other half of the class who started on treadmills was running intervals at various inclines and speeds. After about twelve minutes of non-stop movements with weights, we switched sides.The intervals of running went from a fast jog at 0% incline, to sprinting at 10% and everything in between. The sprints weren’t for very long, but I was definitely feeling the burn towards the end! The trainer was what kept me going at some parts when I felt like lowering the speed or incline. He was constantly pushing everyone to keep going, blunt at times but it was very motivating and got me to push my limits to get the results. We did one more round of weights, this time focusing on arms and abs, then one more cardio set.

Something unique about Barry’s is their fuel bar. In the main entrance area, there is a smoothie/juice bar that you can put your order in before your class so they have it ready for you along with an oil-infused towel right after. They have a wide variety of shakes but some favorites include Muscle Up, Skinny B*tch, PB&J, and Detox Elixir.

I LOVED this class… and man did I feel it the day after 😂. It was hard but encouraged me to push my limits and do what I didn’t think I could. I generally never run higher than 6.0 mph but pushed myself to sprint at 7.0 and higher, not for long, but hey you have to start somewhere! I highly recommend this class if you are a runner, or want to be one. It is very intense, but people at all fitness levels can do it. The only downside is it is pretty expensive. I will not be getting a membership because I don’t think it is worth the price they charge, but will definitely be my go-to class when I need a change in my workout routine!