Marlo Brausse

Marlo Brausse, owner of Barre Body Studio, is a perfect role model for living an active, and down to earth life. A mother of three, she has her hands full at home but still brings her drive and passion to Barre Body. Barre, which was once considered a fitness trend, has now been fully integrated into Calgary’s fitness scene thanks to Marlo for getting people pumped about the ballet-inspired workout.

As part of our Instructor Series, we sat down with Marlo and chatted about where her love for barre grew from and what’s been the most rewarding part of starting her own barre studio. 

Can you describe your first experience with barre? What was it like?

I took my first barre class at a studio in Vancouver and immediately feel in love with the grace, and beautiful flow of the movement that was paired with high tempo music in a gorgeous space. It was love at first pulse.

What made you fall in love with barre?

After several years of taking and teaching yoga and boot camp style classes, I was ready for a change. I was seeking something that was higher energy than yoga but more graceful than boot camp. I love barre for the changes that I have made to my physique and how clear and focused I feel after class. No other style of training compares to the effect that barre has had on my mind, body, and spirit.

Barre Body Studios are wildly successful! Tell us about the reasons why you opened your own studios. 

Fitness has been a passion of mine from a very young age. My love for barre was so strong that I left a rewarding career in the Criminal Justice System to become a full-time fitness instructor and studio owner. In doing so, I created a positive space for myself and others to enjoy.

Who inspires you? 

My husband. From the moment we met, in 2000, we have pushed each other to become better versions of ourselves. We support, encourage, nudge and celebrate each step that we take along the way. After 12 years of marriage and three kids, I would say that I am a pretty lucky.

Where/when did you take your barre training?

I am a member of the Alberta Fitness Leadership Certification Association (AFLCA) and over the years have taken certifications in yoga, Pilates, group fitness and at one point was a Ripped! instructor. I have studied and practiced numerous styles of movement over the years. The Barre Body Studio method was created with the help of a Chiropractor and professional dancer. I used all of my training, knowledge, feedback, practice and support of others to bring BBS to life.

What was the biggest takeaway from that?

What you don’t know, you can learn. Thru practice, reading, education, asking questions, patience, feedback and exploring. What you don’t know, you can learn and there is always room to grow.

What can students expect when they come to your class?

A full body workout in 60 minutes or less, high fives, bass pumping music, a tighter tush and mental clarity. Yep, you got it. Barre fuels the mind, body and spirit. I promise you won’t regret it.

What can students expect when they come to your studios?

A welcoming, non-judgemental, environment filled with like-minded people who are there to workout, connect with others, and re-energize.

What has been the most rewarding part of being the owner of BBS & an instructor of barre?

What I value most is my connections with people. Participants come to the studio, work hard and become better versions of themselves. I am so blessed to work, sweat and connect with so many amazing people every single day. The studio and our community have had a huge impact on my life and my personal journey.

Teaching barre is one of the highlights of my day because I get to lead and motivate people to reframe their mind and push boundaries. Watching participants dig deep and break free from mental road blocks is the most rewarding thing anyone could ask for. 

Most challenging?

Running a business that empowers, connects and educates others 365 days of the year when all I want to do is teach, teach, teach. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes.

​We know how much family means to you. What is your best advice for maintaining such an amazing work/life balance?

Balancing work, life, and family while also eating healthy meals and getting enough sleep is tough but so important. Surround yourself with good people. Take breaks and don’t be so hard on yourself. Spending time with loved ones or doing things that you enjoy fills you up and keeps you energized. Be nice to yourself and look after those around you. I promise if will keep you balanced.

What are your goals this year? Personal, Work, Growth etc.

At Barre Body Studio, we continue to grow in class offerings and styles both within and outside of the studios. In addition, we support local non-profit organizations and give back to local charities as often as possible. Last year we raised just under $10,000 and we hope to double those efforts this year.

On a personal level, I recently became a certified MindBody Business Consultant and continue to grow and expand my work with boutique fitness studios. 

​When can we check out your classes at BBS? 

We have 94 classes per week between the two studios so there are tons of times for you to barre. 

I teach:

Monday, 930am @ BBS Ramsay
Tuesday, 810pm @ BBS Bow Tr
Thurs, 930am & 12pm @ BBS Ramsay
Fri, 12pm @ BBS Bow Tr

Marlo is wearing Dharma Bum Leggings, and Good hYOUman tops. Shop her look here
Photos by Kolby @ Simply Modern Marketing
Location: Barre Body Studio Ramsay