The VIBE inside Barry’s Bootcamp, a high intensity interval training in Yorkville

Checking out the cool facilities at Barry’s Bootcamp in Yorkville

On my quest to find the best gyms in Toronto, Barry’s was next on the list and I was excited about this one. Located in beautiful Yorkville Village, the facility is grand and spacious. They pull out all stops for their locations and this one was no exception. A full fledged juice bar, that’s easily accessible to walk by traffic (I should know because I go there almost everyday for a protein shake – try the Berry’s & Brunch 👌) and even some small snacks and salads to go if you’re in a hurry.

I’d heard a lot about Barry’s and they’ve made quite the splash here in Toronto as of late, so I was eager to check them out and see what all the fuss was about. Join me as I take you through the VIBE at Barry’s in Yorkville.

The Prep

Change Rooms + Amenities

Check in is seamless with various options and packages available online. It’s high energy when you walk into here and everyone has their game face on. Once you get upstairs, you’ll pass the spacious stretching area (great feature) and then head into the main reception area. And not to worry, lot’s of places to take selfies here.

Lots of gear available for purchase for both men and women. There you can see the sign to the infamous Red Room – where all the magic happens.

Nice, spacious change rooms with over-sized lockers. There’s a comfortable amount of space here so even if it gets a busy, you’ll have room. Showers are clean and modern. Towel service available along with all the toiletries and amenities you’ll need. Very clean and well kept.

The Workout

Instructor(s)

All the instructors I’ve met here are physically fit and experienced in the workout game. I always like to see that as it shows they practice what they preach. I had Hayley that day and she was very patient and welcoming to the ‘new guy’. She walked me through the process, what I was about to expect and how to maximize the training.

The Intensity, Quality + Difficulty

Now, let’s get to the most important part – the workout. A high intensity interval training that combines their proprietary treadmill with floor exercises. Alternating muscle focus to ensure the body gets a balanced workout, you go back and fourth between the floor and the treadmill with a different muscle group focus daily. This is designed to have you burn up to 1000 calories in any given workout.

I personally don’t like running and think you can get a better burn doing so many other activities, however when it’s high intensity intervals (HIIT) combined with weight exercises, its not so bad. I mean, during is a bit rough but you feel great after! I do like how you’re always working something inside the Red Room and really pushing yourself. The workout routine is medium to high difficulty, but any beginner can get started here as you work on your own pace and no one is judging. It’s intense and takes a second to get used to the back and fourth, but overall is a solid workout you can do 5-6 times per week and really transform your body.

The VIBE

The music and instructors really push you and create a good vibe in the studio. The crowd is quite dedicated and almost ‘cult-like’, but I’m finding that when someone finds the right studio for them, they become very loyal. When asked, most people say they enjoy Barry’s because they get a full body workout without having to think about it and love the vibe inside the Red Room. The community here is strong and supportive of one another.

The Aftermath

I definitely worked up a good sweat and felt my heart pumping after. I happened to go on Abs & Ass day so was really feeling it in my legs and glutes. We used a combination of the elastic band and weights doing everything from planks to jump squats. It was a great overall workout and recommend you try 2-3 classes before deciding if it’s right for you.

Location: 100 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON
Contact: 647.631.2287, Website
Neighbourhood: Yorkville
Type of Workout: HIIT
Booking: Website

Have you been? Let me know what you think below, and tag me in your photos, use #TorontoVIBE, or shoot me a DM.