Who: Barre Forte
Locations: Colorado, Kansas and Florida
Nadia Walker Arnold is one half of the pair that founded Barre Forte in 2012. Back then it was known as Body Barre before a rebranding took place in 2014. Today the company offers nearly a dozen different barre-related classes at their six studios across Colorado, Kansas and Florida. Barre Forte also offers teacher training recognized by the American Council on Exercise and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. Entrepreneurially-minded people who love the brand and who are looking to open their own studio might be interested in Barre Forte’s licensing opportunities.
Interview with: Nadia Walker Arnold
Title: Founder / Partner
Barre Forte Founder & Partner Nadia Walker Arnold
What were you doing before you opened up your first studio?
I was a hairstylist and a private investigator.
When did you first know that you wanted to create this business?
After my first barre class.
What attracted you to opening up your own business?
I just knew that I wanted to expand on barre and open a studio that represented and captured who I am.
What do you love most about being a business owner?
I love my clients and the close family feel that Barre Forte encompasses.
What was the biggest obstacle or challenge with launching the business?
Location, location, location. Trying to be in the perfect area for our target demographic.
What do you love most about barre?
I love the fact that it’s new and ever changing. Not a single class is the same and it never gets easy.
What do you hope clients get out of a class?
The feeling of accomplishment and addiction to the burn.
How does the vibe at your studio differ from other studio cultures?
We are very up beat, we tend to push the limits. All of our music is mixed in house so that allows for an edgier feel. We also encompass community! Treating every client like family, not just another member.
What do you usually play in your studio?
We have every type of music imaginable. From big band to country to remixed remixes!
You currently have six studios in three different states. Where would you ideally like to see your business expand to? Do you have certain locations in mind?
I would love to be in the south, Canada and the Midwest to start.
What do you think the fitness industry will look like in the next 5 years?
Good question, I feel like it is always changing, new trends are introduced but I feel like the benefits of barre are here to stay. At least I hope!
Anything else you would want people to know about you or your business?
We offer a 2-day certification that is recognized through ACE, AFAA, and NASM. We host in Colorado as well as travel to other states that need us.
We have a great licensing program and hope to find other awesome women to fall in love with our brand and want to open a studio of their own.
The best workout ever! I’m at the Westminster barre, 5 days a week and into my second year! Nothing like it!