Classpass Los Angeles: The Best Studios to Try

My workout routine is constantly changing. I get bored of the same class after a while, not to mention your body plateaus if you keep doing the same thing. If you’re bored with your current routine or not seeing changes in your body, you may want to check out Classpass. I’ve debated writing this post for a long time, because my relationship with Classpass Los Angeles has been on and off.

For those of you that aren’t familiar – Classpass describes itself as a  “new kind of gym membership that grants you access to thousands of different classes at studios and gyms in your city and around the world.”

[ EDIT: Since I first wrote this post, Classpass has changed their business model from per class to the current credits system. ]

Anyone who is familiar with boutique fitness classes understands that they run anywhere from $12-$30 for a single class, with unlimited monthly memberships at some studios running upwards of $300/month! From a value perspective, CToday, pricing for Classpass Los Angeles (may vary in the city you live in) begins at $40/month for 3 classes, $60/month for 5 classes, and $115/month for 10 classes, with options to purchase additional classes through the app if you use up all of your classes for the month. If you’re a boutique fitness class never, this makes having a Classpass membership a no brainer!

I like to switch between the 5 and 10 class per month memberships, which gives me flexibility to try different studios and mix up my routine. While the new Classpass isn’t as much of a deal as the unlimited version, it’s still by far the best bang for your buck in terms of taking a variety of boutique fitness classes. Here are the classes that I think are worth trying on Classpass Los Angeles. These are the studios that I’ve tried and love, some of them I actually buy classes from outside of Classpass as well, because 2-3x a month just doesn’t cut it for me.

My Favorite Classpass Los Angeles Studios

Barry’s Bootcamp

If you want a challenging workout that gives you results, go here. My favorite workout by far – the combination of weights and treadmill intervals will help you reach your fitness goals fast. It’s called “the best workout in the world” for good reason. As far as group fitness goes, it is the gold standard if you are looking for results fast. It can be intense, but you go at your own pace and progress from there.

UPDATE: Barry’s Bootcamp is now 13+ credits on Classpass. I would recommend buying your own class packages (check out the annual class pack sale in December if you can) so you get better selection on class times and spots.

The Studio MDR

Hands down the best megaformer (pilates on crack) workout in the city. I drove from West Hollywood to Culver City/Marina Del Rey for over a year to take classes here. The commute got to be too long, but I still have a huge soft spot for The Studio MDR. Classes on their own are expensive, but worth it! If you find a rare spot open on Classpass, snag it asap!

UPDATE: I would also recommend getting class packages for The Studio MDR, especially for the prime time class slots.

Ballet Bodies

Not a workout class per se, but I’m obsessed with the stretch class. Every time I go to this class, I leave asking myself why I don’t go every week. It’s a must, especially if you have tight hips from running/cycling. Bonus – grab a juice or smoothie from Beverly Hills Juice Company next door after.

Natural Pilates

New favorite pilates studio in LA!!! Go to Stefani’s class. She is hilarious and will make your booty BURN. The WeHo studio is brand new and clean, while the Beverly Hills studio has fewer machines for a more intimate class. Parking on 3rd Street can be a nightmare, but the classes are worth it. My favorites are the Intermediate/Advanced reformer classes and Glutes & Abs.

Fitmix

The Mashup class (half treadmill, half pilates reformer) is intense and rewarding, but I prefer the 60 minute pilates classes. They’re some of the harder pilates classes I’ve found in West Hollywood on a more traditional reformer, and I love the way they make my body feel longer and stronger.

Body By Simone

Such a fun class! Variations of dance cardio and toning. Working out doesn’t have to be serious, and you’ll work up a crazy sweat while doing these classes.

Lagree Underground

New Lagree fitness studio in West Hollywood. WeHo sorely needed a good option with challenging classes, attentive instructors, and an emphasis on form. I’ve tried others in the area and found them sorely lacking. The classes might almost be… dare I say it… too hard?!

The Body Los Angeles

No frills, no-nonsense training. A place to get over your fear of weights and working hard. Show up ready to work and I promise you will see results! All I can say is, I love this place and Jenn (the owner) is incredible.

Other Classpass LA Studios

Sweat Garage

Similar workout to Barry’s Bootcamp. The studio is more bare bones but the classes are insanely tough. Go to Derek’s class – his treadmill portion is the hardest I’ve taken (90 second sprints, whaat?).

JJ Dancer

A really fun class that doesn’t feel like a workout! Even if you’re not a dancer (I’m certainly not), you’ll have so much fun in this class. Choreographed dance moves set to hip hop music followed by a barre-esque toning portion. Also, the Sunday class is 90 minutes!! If you’re looking for something slightly more structured, I suggest checking out Body by Simone.

Training Mate

Fun circuit training based workout. The atmosphere is super social, so bring a friend.

Platefit

Some people love it, I couldn’t handle the vibrations. The vibrating plate made me feel nauseous and the workout was just ok.

Cycle House

Personally not the biggest fan of spin but everyone else seems to love it. This one has a bit of a cult following. Classes are intense and you will sweat a LOT.

Burn 60

I prefer Barry’s + Sweat Garage to Burn 60, but it’s still a good treadmill + weights workout if you’re looking for that. The instructors aren’t as dynamic as the ones at Barry’s, and I found myself having to motivate myself more. Also, it smells like fried chicken when you leave the studio, thanks to the Pavilion’s next door. #willpower

Y7 Yoga

Not your typical yoga class, but a fun vibe and good workout. Heated, set to hip hop music, and in a super dark room with no mirrors (= no judgement). It’s unlike any hot yoga class I’ve ever taken. Less spiritual (if you’re looking for that vibe, I like Modo Yoga), but always a good sweat and workout.

Hot Pilates

I love heated classes, and these get HOT! Normally mat pilates classes don’t do it for me, but I really enjoy the Hot Pilates Sculpt class. You will sweat and leave feeling 5 pounds lighter.

UPDATE: I love this class for a good sweat and light toning, but at 10+ credits per class ($16-$18 per class, depending on the number of credits in your plan per month), I just don’t find it a good enough workout to justify the cost. They also started charging Classpass users for mats and towels, and the last few classes I took were hit or miss. Some instructors are definitely better than others, although the same could be said about most studios.

These are the classes in the West Hollywood/Mid City/Hollywood area that I’ve taken and would recommend. I’ve taken classes at other studios that just weren’t as memorable, so if you have a question about any in the area give me a holler. Now that there’s a limit on the number of classes you take a month, Classpass feels less like a membership to help you find new studios, and more like an affordable way to take boutique fitness classes at a handful of your favorite spots. If you’re used to working out 5+ days a week, you’ll either need to adjust your routine or supplement with a membership elsewhere.

Now that Classpass has switched to an increasingly membership model, it’s no longer the amazing deal it was when it first launched. At this point you have to sacrifice a lot to get the most out of your membership. If you have the budget I would look into committing to one or two studios. If you love the variety, you may find that you increasingly have to pay more and more for the studios you love. I would still recommend Classpass if you are looking to try a bunch of different classes and like to mix it up. But it just isn’t a good enough deal anymore for me to keep the highest tier package. I supplement my workout routine with a yoga or pilates class from Classpass every now and then, but do not rely on it as heavily as I used to.

Grana was kind enough to send a couple sets of their new activewear to me to try out. I’ve tested and worn their basics before (here and here) and have always been blown away by the quality and prices of their pieces. Despite having a closet full of yoga pants, I was missing a pair of the perfect black leggings. These photos were quickly snapped with my photog and friend, Lauren, before running off to a bootcamp class together. I wore this black set for the first time and was surprised by how comfortable the material was and how well the fabric wicked off moisture during even a very intense and VERY sweaty workout sesh.

Find more of my favorite workout clothes here!