See You at the Barre By Susan Salaz

Leslie Lupton first started working out at Physique 57’s flagship location in New York City almost 15 years ago. She loved everything about it—the intimate, individualized classes; the creative choreography and personalized playlists; and the definitive results that were apparent both physically and mentally. When Lupton and her husband Christian Lopez left NYC in the fall of 2019 to raise their family in Carmel, Indiana, one of the things the native Hoosier missed most was the high caliber Physique 57 barre workouts. Carmel turned out to be a natural fit for the concept, and earlier this year Lupton opened the doors to her own Physique 57 studio, the first of the premier barre franchise outside of New York.

Physique 57 in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza might be the newest barre studio in the city, but founders and fitness mavericks Jennifer Maavani and Tanya Becker are the original pioneers of the barre movement that has become so popular. The signature 57-minute classes are based on the ballet-inspired Lotte Berk Method, producing fast and transformative results. Each high-intensity/low-impact workout incorporates dynamic, dance-style sequences with elements of yoga and pilates to achieve what is known as interval overload. Lupton explains that dancers use this technique to develop muscle memory when fatigue settles in. “It is fast-paced and you are constantly moving and making slight adjustments so that your muscles are fully engaged, overloaded, and then stretched,” she says. The specific technique focuses on elongating muscles and enhancing core strength, working muscles you didn’t even know you had.

At Physique 57, music is a key component used to help participants move their way through the class, and whether you are into the latest dance beats, just dropping in for some one-hit wonders, or pushing yourself to the edge of glory with some Lady Gaga, there is probably a class and a playlist for you. “We love that each of our instructors’ personalities shines through with the way they teach the class and the playlists they curate,” says Lupton. Clients agree that the energy inside the studio is motivating and the instruction top-notch. While the trainers all have a background in dance and knowledge of anatomy and body movement, the individualized group workouts meet each participant where they are each day, regardless of where they are on their fitness journey. 

For Lupton, wellness is a priority and she is happy she can share that passion with the Carmel community. “Physique 57 is challenging, but it is for every body,” she insists. “I want people to realize that exercise is a joy, and it can make you feel better about yourself no matter what age, shape or size you are. It’s not an intimidating environment—everyone is truly welcome.” 

Drop in for a class at Physique 57, located at 350 Monon Boulevard #14 in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza. For more information visit physique57.com/Indianapolis/ or follow @physique57indianapolis on Instagram.

BEST.YOU.EVER