Frequently Asked Questions:
Are you new to the workout online experience? Maybe this is your first time trying a barre-style workout or an interval class. Maybe you’ve always wanted to have a yoga practice, but you were afraid the barrier to entry would be too high. Read through the following FAQ’s to understand our process and what to expect in class. Is your question not answered here? Feel free to email us for additional information.
I’m new to online fitness. What do I need to get started?
On the technical side, all you need is an internet connection and to have zoom downloaded. When you sign up for a class on our site, you will be emailed the zoom link for your class. Several minutes before class starts, click the link and follow zoom’s prompts. At that point the instructor will check with you and tell you if any props are needed for class that day. Do you like that I just told you how to use zoom? I’m pretty sure we’re all experts in zoom by now….
Once you’re in class, feel free to let us know out loud or in the direct chat if you have any injuries or contraindications you want us to be aware of.
You’re also welcome to say hello or check in with the others, before or after class. We’re not together per-say, but at least we can collectively commiserate!
Do I need a ballet barre?
You don’t need a barre at all to do a barre-style workout! Whereas in the studio a ballet barre is a given, the majority of us don’t have that option at home.
Most sequences in class don’t require any apparatus at all, but for the few moments that extra balance and stability may be required, a chair, a wall, a countertop, a bookcase or any solid surface will suffice.
What props DO I need?
For all classes we’d like for you to have a yoga mat or at least a towel beneath you. Because much of the class happens on the ground or on our knees, this added layer gives you cushion and support.
All Barre, Barre+, and Express classes will utilize a set of light (2-5lb) weights for at least a portion of class. Other props we occasionally utilize in class are a lightweight, inflatable fitness ball, a loop resistance band, a theraband, and/or a non-elastic yoga strap. These props are always optional, and we will clearly instruct you in how to proceed with or without the prop.
MIIT and HIIT classes usually use a slightly heavier (5-8lb) set of weights, in addition to body weight. But as always, use what you have. Wine bottles can work in a pinch and they sure raise the stakes!
A yoga block is often used for support and modifications in Yoga classes, and an inexpensive option can be purchased here.
If you are taking this opportunity to put together a gym of sorts in your home, and would like recommendations on props that we find most useful, please reach out.
I’ve always wanted to try yoga, but is it ok if I don’t know the names of poses?
We believe that yoga is for all ages, all bodies, and all levels of experience. We are passionate about the idea that exercise—especially group exercise—should not feel intimidating. Every body is different and everyone’s practice is different. Whether you have done a thousand yoga practices or you’ve only ever considered giving yoga a try, you will be welcome and challenged in our classes.
What if I can’t join live?
We record all of our classes when they are taught live and then automatically send the recording out to anyone who was not present for the live class. The recording will be available to you for no additional cost for the next 48 hours.
While we love to see your faces “in-person” we know life these days is hectic. Feel free to sign up for classes ahead of time, and worry not about making it on time.
(Please note, there is about a 5-10 minute delay for the class to be uploaded to Zoom’s server, after the class ends. You will be emailed an alert once the class is available to you.)
This is awkward to ask, but how much do classes cost?
We know that everyone is in a different place financially always, but especially these days. We want our classes to be accessible to you, for your own mental health and sanity. Our pricing structure seeks to reflect this approach. Classes are available on a sliding scale: $10-20 for barre/barre+/express/MIIT/HIIT classes and $15-20 for yoga classes. We also offer FREE class options several times a month.
We also offer two options for monthly, unlimited subscriptions:
$180/month for unlimited class streaming
OR
$200/month for unlimited class streaming + access to the past class library
Can’t figure out how to work live classes into your schedule? We also offer past recorded classes for purchase in our LIBRARY for $5-7 or unlimited access to all past class videos for $24/month.
If none of the above pricing options work for your budget but you are still interested in trying out or consistently taking class with us, please let us know. We will work with you. Your physical and mental wellbeing is more important than ever.
Why is “Align” a part of your name?
Alignment matters because body mechanics directly impact the sustainability and effectiveness of movement. By using proper alignment, we load the muscles in a safe way, which protects the joints and ligaments from strain and injury. We create patterns of movement with the purpose of efficiency and longevity.
You will hear us talk a LOT about supporting the bones and joints of the body using the strength of the muscles. You will hear us use anatomical terms for what is happening in the body when you engage certain muscles or muscle groups. You will hear us cue breath to recruit all of your systems to find the greatest resistance your body is capable of creating.
This means our workouts are safe for ALL bodies. Whether you are recovering from injury, an athlete at peak performance, a pregnant or postpartum mother, 16 years old or 76 years old, new to fitness or a lifer—this is a safe and effective way to work out.
What types of classes do you offer?
Barre
Inspired by elements of dance, yoga and pilates, this is our signature class that works on strengthening and stretching, one muscle group at a time. This is a no-impact workout that will leave you feeling longer, stronger, and more balanced in mind and body. Classes are 60 minutes long and focus on MOBILITY, STRENGTH, and STABILIZATION.
Yoga
Through a dynamic sequence of poses linked to the breath, you will move deep into shapes in a safe and intentional way. This class combines fluid Vinyasa-style yoga and deep holds, while emphasizing proper alignment and intelligent sequencing. Classes are 60 minutes long and focus on STABILIZATION, STRENGTH and FLEXIBILITY.
MIIT
Using the alignment principles established in barre, this class focuses on using the heart as a muscle. While still low-impact, you will perform short bursts of mid-intensity work, followed by a brief recovery period, and then repeated with a different combination of moves. Classes are 45 minutes long, and focus on STRENGTH, AGILITY, and ENDURANCE.
Barre+
While still following the basic principles and format of barre, this class combines our Barre and MIIT styles, to give you the best of both worlds. You’ll oscillate between slower, smaller range of motion movements, and bigger, heart-rate-raising interval style movement. Still mid-intensity and no-impact, this class is a great introduction to the interval style format. Classes are 60 minutes long and focus on STRENGTH, STABILIZATION, and AGILITY.
Express
This petite version of our regular barre class kicks things up a notch while making the most of your time. Sequences that are usually spread over an hour will be woven together to create a class with more flow and less transition time. This class is a great way to lift your heart rate while still following the traditional structure of a barre class. Classes are 45 minutes long and focus on MOBILITY, STRENGTH, and STABILIZATION.
HIIT
High Intensity Interval Training (aka, HIIT) is a catch all term for a fitness regime consisting of short bursts of training in sequence, followed by some length of recovery and then repeated. While the format and style of each specific class is slightly different, the approach is the same. This class is high intensity and mid-high impact, so expect to jump (a little), do push-ups (at least once), and sweat (a lot). Classes are roughly 30 minutes long and focus on ENDURANCE, AGILITY, and STRENGTH.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain, decrease soreness, & improve range of motion. Props needed Lacrosse balls or tennis balls or even just a wine bottle. Classes range in length but always focus on MOBILITY, FLEXIBILITY, and RECOVERY.