When I was a kid, my mother enrolled me in weekly dance classes. She had danced at Joffrey Ballet School throughout her young adult years and thought it would be good for my development and form. I did it for several years before transitioning to competitive figure skating and later horseback riding. And while I love the occasional living room dance party as an adult, I’d say it’s been a while since I hit the dance floor in any serious manner. That was until I was introduced to Forward__Space.
A few weeks back, I attended a Forward__Space pop-up class at Hero Beach Club in Montauk. The instructor, Rachel, had the most positive vibe, and I enjoyed her class immensely. So when I learned that the SoHo-based studio was doing a residency at The Barn in Bridgehampton, NY the entire month of August, I knew I needed to see Rachel again and get the complete Forward__Space experience.
The Forward__Space workout is everything you want when you take a class—it’s a high-energy workout, a positive experience, and a fun community. It’s a vibe…and one that I am very much here for. If you’re looking for some cardio dance and athletic training combined with a moving meditation, you’ve come to the right place. And with an array of classes that vary in intensity, there is something for everyone.
This was also my first time at The Barn, a 2,200-square-foot studio space that is home to SoulCycle and blends in seamlessly with the Hamptons landscape. With lots of other lifestyle and wellness pop-ups happening at the venue this summer, it’s a cool place to work out or unwind.
For my first official Forward__Space class, I opted to take Forward__Fire, which incorporates their signature dance class with the addition of 2-or 4-pound weights. The 50-minute class began with some light stretching, low lighting, and loud music, and before I knew it, every muscle in my body began to get activated. After that, it was a full-on dance party with a room full of strangers who, by the end, felt like friends. From the moment I stepped onto the dance floor, I entered an engaged community, and their energy helped carry me through class when I needed a break. Candidly, this was the most fun workout I have ever done, and it didn’t even feel like a workout. It was just pure fun!
There’s something about a Forward__Space class that’s different from any workout I’ve done. Maybe it’s the powerful playlist. Perhaps it is the motivational movements choreographed into each heart-pumping song. But this workout has a way of transforming you when you walk out the door and step back into the real world. I can’t properly convey the impact this workout had on me (which might sound strange if you’ve never taken a class before). There was something about the community, the power of music, and the infusion of gratitude that felt like it touched your soul. I left feeling awakened and energized, something I honestly haven’t felt in months, as I’ve navigated the grieving process after the loss of my grandmother .
The other thing to know about a Forward__Space class is that you are going to sweat (not that I am complaining). As soon as the class began, I could feel my heart rate rising and my body temperature heating up. I planned my workout outfit accordingly and debuted this new onesie. I have to say, the fabric is amazing, and it kept me cool and dry given how sweaty I got. The one-shoulder look for this class? Probably not the wisest move, but no wardrobe malfunctions were reported, so it was all good.
If you need me for the rest of the summer, I will be at The Barn. No, not the barn where you can usually find me with my four-legged friends on Saturdays and Sundays. The one in Bridgehampton with Forward__Space. I’ve already planned my workout schedule for the rest of the month, so I can get in one class a week…because it is just that good. And, if you need any more convincing, check out this Reel, which recaps my first class!
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