An instructor leads a barre3 class.

Certified as a Green Business in 2018 and presented with a Green Business of the Year Award in 2019, barre3 Felida continues to inspire us with their holistic approach for caring for people and the planet. The exercise studio offers barre3 classes, which are total-body workouts using low-impact movements that combine cardio, strength training, and mindfulness. They also sell eco-friendly products and clothing made using fair labor practices.

To reduce waste, they request minimal packaging in their incoming shipments and offer real towels that they launder. They also have a water bottle filling station and encourage clients to bring their own bottle. These practices along with a mixed recycling program have kept garbage at the studio down to just one bag per week!

Over the years, barre3 Felida has given back to the community in lots of ways, donating thousands of dollars and making in-kind contributions that support over 100 local causes each year. As a thank you to local teachers, Barre3 Felida recently offered them the opportunity to sign up for a class for free during spring break.

I'm finding ways to keep serving my community even when it's hard because that's my purpose in life. When my business closed I still felt called to continue offering a way for our community to gather together and move our bodies mindfully. When we move together to the same beat in these virtual classes, not only do we feel connected to each other, but we feel connected to something even bigger than ourselves. Movement is proven to reduce anxiety and stress and bring us a sense of calm. At barre3 Felida we know that community is just as healthy as a workout. I felt a sense of responsibility to continue to support my community with authentic connection and mindful movement through this hard time. My community has supported my small business for 5 years, and it matters to me to be here for them in good times as well as hard times. I'm so grateful to my few team members who are standing in this light with me, and teaching live streaming classes to my community. I hope you all join us for these virtual group classes!

Amy Grabenkort, barre3 Felida owner