June is a month of celebration, a time to honor love, diversity, and the vibrant spectrum of identities that make our world beautiful. As we step into Pride Month, Pure Barre proudly raises its voice in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, amplifying the stories of strength, courage, and empowerment.
In this special blog post, we shine a spotlight on the journeys of individuals within the Pure Barre family who embrace their authenticity and share what Pride means to them.
Nicole, Lead Teacher at Pure Barre Mission Viejo
“In late 2013/early 2014 I took my friend/fellow professional dance comrade, Corey's test out class for Pure Barre Classic (back in the P1 days!) at Pure Barre NYC, Union Square. It was my very first experience with Pure Barre. My friend nailed it. I was so inspired by the workout and the studio vibe that I wanted IN right away. Cut to my birthday weekend at the end of February of 2014 and I am in Spartanburg for Classic training! I have continued to grow with the brand ever since as a teacher, MTT, Continuing Education Manager and more. What I love most of all, in addition to the amazing, effective and ever evolving workout, is the community.
For me the Pure Barre community is an extraordinary network of inspiring human beings of which many now feel like family to me. I personally discovered the magic and depths of how and who I love, in my 30s. As I learned this new element of my queer self and decided to share more, everyone from my local studio owner and teammates in NYC, to the corporate MTT team, to the studios around the country were vibrantly supportive, accepting and loving. I have been celebrated and raised up more by this community each time I share more of who I am. Teaching Pure Barre and leading other teachers in the technique has been a calling that I never planned for and one that I am eternally grateful that I followed my heart on. A special thank you to my barre sister April for believing in me as we have continued to grow as teachers and leaders together in this amazing brand. This past week, my Dad passed away. It has been heartbreaking and hard to say the least. The first place I felt safe to move my body and truly let myself just BE in movement and community was Pure Barre Mission Viejo, CA, my current local studio. Before taking class some of our dedicated clients could tell something was up and they just embraced me, holding me up when I felt like I was going to collapse. Taking class gave me space to breathe and reminded me of my physical, mental and emotional strength. This community has shown me time and time again that showing up as my fullest self is honored, cherished, supported and loved.
To anyone new or returning to, teaching or wanting to teach Pure Barre, you are magnificent just as you are. When you want to move, we are here, when you need an escape, we are here, when you want to grow and push yourself, we are here, when you need support, consistency or accountability, we are here. And most importantly, when you need a reminder of just how strong you really are, we are here. You got this.”
Ryan, Lead Teacher at Pure Barre NYC & General Manager at Pure Barre Union Square
“My name is Ryan (he/him), and I am the General Manager of Pure Barre Union Square! I’m also a Lead Teacher in NYC, former Disney Cast/Crew Member, and self-proclaimed professional hugger!
I found Pure Barre with my barre bestie, Kathryn upon our return from college one summer when a studio magically appeared in our hometown (Pure Barre Denville)! It wasn’t long until Pure Barre found ME everywhere I went. From living in NJ, to working in Disney World (shoutout to Moana and Karin), to finally finding my home at Pure Barre NYC. Pure Barre has always been my constant. As a performer, life can be quite the unexpected roller coaster, but Pure Barre has always been there to provide stability, consistency, challenges, and strength. Since joining this fitness family, I’ve seen such amazing growth in myself physically, mentally, and as a leader. It is a privilege to witness the daily growth within every client who walks through our doors. It’s truly inspirational.
To me, pride is a celebration of finding one’s authentic self. It’s a time to celebrate the right to unapologetically express who you truly are. Whether you have the privilege to live freely day in and day out, or are still on your journey to find self-acceptance or acceptance within your community, Pride is an opportunity to reflect on your privilege and make sure no one is being excluded, ostracized, or just simply tolerated in our community. This is a time to open our eyes to the world around us and stand up for those who could use a helping hand. Our work won’t be complete until ALL humans are able to feel loved and accepted for who they were born to be. Until then, we celebrate how far we’ve come and will continue to trail blaze towards the happily ever after we all deserve.
On the note of acceptance, Pure Barre’s doors are open to all who are curious and want to find their inner strength. Whether you are new to barre, or new to fitness in general, I encourage you to take the leap and experience the welcoming community we have created. It truly is pure magic. We are ready to accept you for who you are, where you are right now in your fitness journey, build upon that, and challenge you. If you are willing to put in the work and show up consistently for yourself, I guarantee you will see the fruits of your labor. What you put into it, you will get back 10-fold. The choice is yours. Are you ready to unlock your power? “
Anne, teacher at Pure Barre NYC
“Hi! My name is Anne Miele (they/them) and I am a queer non-binary person kicking it in NYC! I am an actor, pure barre teacher, and shark enthusiast— the only things you need to know about me. Just kidding (but not really).
I moved to NYC a couple years ago and, after taking virtual PB classes during the pandemic, started working the front desk at Pure Barre studios on the Upper East Side. That was almost three years ago! Looking back I never thought I’d end up becoming a teacher, but here we are! And I am all the better for it. Making connections with clients is hands down my favorite part of teaching. The community that Pure Barre fosters is something that cannot be beat!
Pride to me means a lot of things! First and foremost it's remembering its roots. Pride started in 1970 as a way to commemorate the events of the Stonewall riots that occurred the year prior. It’s also a way to honor those who fought and continue to fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. But Pride is also about celebration! Celebrating how far we’ve come, celebrating LOVE in all forms whether that’s partners, friends, family, chosen family, you name it! And it’s most importantly celebrating YOURSELF because, listen, there’s only one you and I don't know about y'all but I think that’s pretty special.
For any first timers interested in try Pure BarreI would say STICK WITH IT. The first few classes are the hardest. But PB is a community rooted in welcoming and accepting you right where you are. That’s in your fitness journey and beyond! So show up for yourself, do your best, and that’s all that matters. Do your best and forget the rest!”
At Pure Barre, we're committed to fostering an inclusive space where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves. As we reflect on the stories shared and the strides made, let's continue to uplift one another and advocate for equality. Here's to a future filled with love, acceptance, and endless possibilities. Happy Pride!