They say timing is everything. For the newest business in Berry Farms, the timing of their opening couldn’t be better. As we finish up the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers and the onslaught of holiday sweets, treats and once-a-year family recipes begin, the last of the finishing touches are being completed on Hughes Crossing at THE BARRE – just in time for an early January opening.

THE BARRE teaches the BarreAmped method, which is a combination of pilates, yoga, stretching, and small isometric moves that create that long lean physique. They will offer a variety of classes from tabata interval training, to bootcamp, to classic strength training barre. Their specially trained instructors will tailor your class to your needs – helping you modify, advance, and be challenged with tactile and verbal cues. It’s like having a personal training session in a class full of energy!

Suzanne Banker is the owner and master instructor of THE BARRE. When you talk to Suzanne, it is easy to see she has a passion for her business and her family. When asked about herself, she responded, “I’ve been jumping and squatting and running since I was a kid. I love movement and love sharing that passion with others! I was born and raised in North Georgia, but our little family moved here 6 years ago and we call Franklin home. I helped film a post-partum workout with Suzanne Bowen, the creator of the BarreAmped method, and she nudged me to go get certified and become a teacher. It had been a dream of mine and that was all the encouragement I needed! I certified and began my apprenticeship and then started teaching 3 years ago in Nashville off Music Row, then went on to get my Advanced Certifications. Shortly thereafter I moved to teach at the Spring Hill studio. I’m married to David, we have been going strong for 12 years! I’m mom to 4 babes – 3 girls and 1 boy, ages 10, 8, 5, and 3. They are my world.”

Her business is 3 years old, beginning in Spring Hill as Studio 3 Fitness and rebranded this summer and now (almost) ready to open in Berry Farms. “We fought hard to be in Berry Farms. It is a well sought-out area because it really is the perfect location. Convenient to the interstate yet full of charm and great people – It’s the perfect location to catch classes on the way to or from work. We bring clients from Spring Hill, Thompson’s Station, Franklin, and Cool Springs together.”

Community and bringing people together is a focus for THE BARRE. “For us, we have seen over and over again, it’s all about community. The women that come into our studio have found friends, connection, and comrades in their fitness and life journeys. Berry Farms cultivates and fosters that spirit of “neighborhood,” which is what sets us apart. We aren’t a big box fitness franchise, we are a personal, one-on-one boutique studio that welcomes everyone in and helps them feel right at home.”

In the community spirit, Suzanne says they will offer unique events around holidays, local outreach opportunities and fun fitness offerings. “We love to have a good time and get the whole family moving! Look for date nights at the barre, mom and daughter dance parties, and private events for birthdays, bachelorette parties, etc. We also have a heart to bless families and individuals in need within our South
Franklin area. We will find creative ways to make a difference!”

Classes begin in early January (watch for an exact date announcement) and you can register for classes now on their website: TheBarreFranklin.com Classes begin as early as 5:00 a.m. and run throughout the day until 7:00 p.m. They will offer lunchbreak classes if you live or work in or near Berry Farms. And for the little ones, there will be preschool ballet classes and other unique offerings throughout the year. Make sure to follow THE BARRE on instagram and facebook to get all the announcements.

And if all this wasn’t exciting enough – they offer FREE CHILDCARE. “Most of us are mommas and have found paying for childcare to be an added expense and a hindrance from a fitness membership. We know how hard it is to find time for yourself and will be offering a safe and fun place for your babes to play while you get that hour to yourself! We don’t know of many studios that offer this and thought it would be a way to encourage moms to take care of themselves first so they can take care of their families better.” We couldn’t agree more!

Look for GRAND OPENING specials now, and $1 BarreBasics classes to those of you that have never tried or are nervous to try. Go ahead and nudge your husband or boyfriend or mom and let them know you want a Barre gift certificate for Christmas. There are some great packages and never-go-this-low-again rates, all wrapped up beautifully to put under the tree. Again, make sure you’re following The Barre at Berry Farms on Facebook and Instagram to find out all the details!

So go ahead and enjoy Grandma’s pecan pie – even have a second slice. The holidays are a time to splurge a little. Suzanne won’t mind as long as you show up in January. “Be Fierce. Get Fit. Live Free. It’s not about being a certain size or weight or body type. It’s about getting stronger, overcoming obstacles in your head, and doing it together. This enables you to live free, to clear your head and leave all that stress and sweat on the mat.” Now that’s perfect timing for a new you in 2017.

By Lisa Gregory December 9, 2016