1. The Peace.Strength.Yoga Philosophy

It’s real-world training for real people, which means that our curriculum doesn’t just teach you how to teach barre—it teaches you how to manage all that comes with the role. From managing a class full of people to handling delicate matters, to avoiding some of the more challenging aspects of being a leader. We emphasize real-life scenarios in an effort to prepare you to become a “force of strong nature teacher” from all angles, giving you a skillset most instructors are forced to learn on their own. Our program strives to empower our students on a level beyond the physical, to go forth and be brave in this world and consider mental strength as an equally important asset.

2. The History of Barre

Every barre class is not made equal—and there’s a reason why. In this section of the curriculum, you’ll learn the theory behind authentic barre, born of thought, tenacity, and a thorough background in movement. With this knowledge, you will further comprehend how you can use your credentials and demonstrate in a genuine and legitimate way.

3. Attributes of a Phenomenal Barre Teacher

In the years we’ve been training new instructors, we’ve developed over 30 attributes we’ve found to be a positive addition to any class’s repertoire. For example, do you know what every barre student’s favorite word is? How about the best way to make a class fly by and make students excited to come back for more? In this portion of the curriculum, we’ll discuss what works, and what doesn’t, and help you to create your own signature style.

4. The Artful Engineering of a Barre Class

Beyond excellence in technique, method, and order; variety is always a significant factor for making an exceptional class. Student engagement—and enjoyment—is critical, and students must continue to be challenged in thoughtful ways without leaving newbie’s behind. During this part of the training, we’ll reveal our methods for accomplishing the ideal with both strategy and efficiency, and walk you step-by-step through the development of your own.

5. Anatomy 101

The science of how we move is just as important as the practice itself. During this portion of the training, we’ll be putting you through a rigorous but fascinating curriculum designed to enable you to understand the human anatomy as a whole, speak intelligently and authoritatively about the muscle groups that students are using, why and how these muscles work together, what proper and safe alignment looks like, and how to provide safe modifications for anything under the sun.

6. Injury and Pregnancy Modification

Finally, as a barre instructor, you’ll be helping many different students of all shapes, sizes, fitness levels, and limitations. It is our job to give you the tools you need to safely and intelligently provide substitutions so all students can participate while still being individually challenged at the appropriate level. Injuries and pregnancies are common to barre class, and bringing your expert A-game will ensure that your students stay happy—and you stay confident.

7. Music, Rhythm, and Implementation

One of the components of barre that makes it so exciting—and that is particularly pumping for students is the music component. That said, pulling any old random track into your class might not be the best idea. Selecting music for barre is an art form in its own right. You’ll learn how to navigate tempo changes, break down the structure of a song, and tap into the power of rhythm to ensure students are working their hardest. Here, we’ll teach you the finer points of selecting and curating music playlists designed to match your own signature style, while still keeping true to the movements. These selections include transitioning out of those movements, as well, and creating an amazing experience that makes time fly.

8. The Four Agreements

One of the pieces of the Peace.Strength.Yoga curriculum that’s especially relevant is our emphasis on something called The Four Agreements, originally developed by a philosopher named Miguel Ruiz. The Four Agreements are four simple contracts you make with yourself in order to lead a happier, more fulfilling life; however, we’ve found these to be particularly useful within the studio setting as well. As you practice The Four Agreements, your life won’t just change—the way you handle every situation will. And this is a critical piece of being a smart, savvy barre teacher who can manage herself with as much grace in the world as she does a plié.