The Bar Method Opening at Anthem House in Locust Point
Baltimore-transplant Ally Vitale is excited to bring her favorite fitness routine to Baltimore. While living in her hometown of Dallas, she became a fan of taking barre classes at The Bar Method after a heart condition diagnosis ended her marathon running career. After her husband was transferred to Baltimore, she decided to open Baltimore’s first The Bar Method, which now has 106 studios around the country.
The Bar Method is a ballet bar exercise class consisting of a warmup, bar exercises, pilates-style abdominal work, and stretching, according to Vitale. The Bar Method will offer 45- and 60-minute classes. “All of our trainers go through vigorous training and we know how to work with people with injuries,” said Vitale. “Barre is safe and effective, and anyone can come in off the street and participate.”
The Bar Method Baltimore has been leasing a temporary space in Upper Fells Point for almost a year, but will be opening a permanent 3,000 sq. ft. studio at the soon-to-be-finished Anthem House at 900 E. Fort Ave. in Locust Point. The first-level space will feature two studio rooms with soft carpeting and ballet bars, large windows, showers, and a childcare area. Vitale is hoping to open the new studio in late summer or early fall after Labor Day.
The $80-million Anthem House project will include 292 apartments, 449 parking spaces, and 14,000 sq. ft. of ground floor retail. The project is a partnership between Bozzuto, War Horse, and Solstice Partners.
In looking for a permanent space, Vitale eyed new construction projects that would allow for the right layout and that had parking. “The timing worked out with Anthem House and the community Bozzuto and War Horse are building is a natural fit. We knew it was the space for us,” she said. Vitale noted the importance of having showers for individuals who come during work, and childcare for parents looking to get in a workout without worrying about getting a sitter.
Classes will be offered throughout the day from early morning into the evening. Single- and 12-month memberships will be available, as well as class packages.
The Bar Method has seven instructors and will be hiring desk and childcare staff. Vitale expects to have 15 to 20 employees.
“We are very excited to be in the South Baltimore community and look forward to officially bring The Bar Method to Baltimore,” said Vitale.
About the Author: Kevin Lynch
Founder and Publisher of SouthBmore.com, longtime resident of South Baltimore, and a graduate of Towson University. Diehard Ravens and O's fan, father of three, amateur pizza chef, skateboarder, and "bar food" foodie. Email me at Kevin@InceptMM.com and follow me on Twitter at @SoBoKevin.
