Is Barre Considered Strength Training or Cardio?

Barre has a way of sneaking up on you. What starts as a seemingly low-impact series of tiny pulses and pliés quickly turns into a full-body burn that leaves your muscles quivering and your heart racing. But if you've ever wondered whether those graceful, ballet-inspired movements actually count as strength training or if they're better categorized as cardio you're not alone.

To help decode where barre fits in your fitness routine, we tapped certified trainers and barre experts to break down its benefits and where it shines most.

Is barre a strength workout?

Yes and no. While barre incorporates many bodyweight and resistance-based exercises think lunges, push-ups, planks, and squats it doesn’t usually involve the kind of heavy lifting that’s typically associated with building maximum strength.

“Barre is an absolutely fantastic way to build muscular endurance,” says Lisa Schale-Drake, an instructor trainer at barre3. Most barre classes rely on light weights (often 2 to 5 pounds), resistance bands, and bodyweight movements to challenge your muscles. You’ll perform these moves in high-rep sets or through isometric holds (like planks) to fatigue the muscles over time.

Instead of focusing on building maximum strength (i.e., lifting the heaviest weight possible), barre focuses on endurance your muscles’ ability to contract repeatedly over an extended period of time while maintaining form and control.

That said, if you’re new to strength training, recovering from injury, or simply prefer a lower-impact approach, barre can absolutely help you build a strong foundation especially for core stability, balance, and posture. Some studios even offer strength-focused classes that incorporate heavier weights or more resistance-based intervals for a hybrid approach.

Is barre a cardio workout?

Yes and it may be more cardio than you think.

“Barre classes often flow seamlessly from one movement to the next, keeping your heart rate elevated throughout,” says Schale-Drake. This rhythmic, continuous motion combined with full-body engagement can qualify as aerobic exercise, especially in higher-intensity barre formats.

You won’t be sprinting or jumping the way you might in a HIIT class, but don’t underestimate the sweat factor. Between the rapid transitions, repetitive pulsing movements, and minimal rest periods, your cardiovascular system gets plenty of action.

Dance-based barre or classes labeled as “cardio barre” will emphasize this effect even more, often incorporating choreographed sequences and high-rep bodyweight movements to increase your heart rate.

According to the CDC, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week and a barre class or two can help you get there.

Best barre classes for strength or cardio goals

Not all barre classes are created equal. Some are designed for sculpting and toning, others for cardio endurance, and some combine both. Here's how to find the right fit:

• For strength-focused goals: Look for class names that include “strength,” “sculpt,” or “define.” These often include heavier resistance training or a slower pace to target muscle fatigue more intentionally. Barre3’s Strength and Pure Barre Define are good examples.

• For cardio-focused goals: Seek out classes labeled “Cardio Barre,” “Barre Sweat,” or “Dance Fusion.” These formats emphasize higher energy output, full-body movements, and shorter rest periods to boost heart health.

• For a well-rounded approach: Most classic barre classes offer a balance of cardio, endurance, and core-focused strength, making them a great cross-training tool.

Other benefits of barre

Beyond strength and cardio, barre delivers a host of additional perks:

• Improved core stability: Many of the small, controlled movements activate deep core muscles, including the pelvic floor and transverse abdominis.

• Enhanced mobility and flexibility: Barre encourages lengthening through movement, which supports joint health and range of motion.

• Better balance and posture: The emphasis on alignment and core control helps reinforce stability in everyday activities.

• Accessibility: Because it’s low impact, barre is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and can be easily modified.

“Barre is one of the most versatile tools you can use to complement other workout styles,” says Schale-Drake. Whether you’re marathon training, powerlifting, or easing back into movement postpartum, it can help enhance performance, reduce injury risk, and promote body awareness.

The bottom line

Barre may not replace heavy weightlifting if your goal is maximum strength, but it absolutely “counts” as a strength workout for building muscular endurance. And thanks to its quick pace and full-body movement, it can double as a solid cardio session, too.

Try adding one or two barre classes to your weekly routine and take note of how it supports your strength, stamina, and energy in other workouts. “Barre is something you can do daily,” says Schale-Drake. “It has the flexibility to meet you where you are and challenge you when you’re ready.”

With a blend of cardio, strength, balance, and mindfulness, barre proves that sometimes, the smallest movements can deliver the biggest benefits.

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