Pure Barre Owensboro is kicking off its 12th year with new ownership, a renewed energy, and a special offer to help people jumpstart their fitness goals in 2026.
Natalie Johnson officially took over ownership in October, buying the local franchise from longtime owner Annie McCrary. Johnson, who started as an instructor at the studio a decade ago, said the transition has felt like a full-circle moment.
“I actually started as an instructor there about 10 years ago,” Johnson said. “Then I took some time off when I had my kids, and most recently I’ve been a first-grade teacher. My husband and I decided to purchase the studio from Annie this past October.”
Pure Barre Owensboro has operated from the same location in Wesleyan Park Plaza since opening, and Johnson said it has built a loyal following over the years.
“We have clients that have been with us since the doors opened,” she said. “We’ve celebrated people who’ve completed more than 2,000 classes. It’s really a community — they feel like family.”
The studio offers four distinct formats: Classic (a low-impact, high-intensity workout that’s the foundation of the brand), Align (a yoga-flow inspired class with stretching), Define (focused on weightlifting), and Empower (a cardio-intensive option). Classes are typically 50 minutes long, with a 35-minute express version of Classic offered at lunchtime.
“We run classes all day long, every day of the week,” Johnson said. “Our earliest starts at 5:30 a.m. and we have several options throughout the day to fit different schedules.”
Pure Barre is a national brand with locations across the U.S. This year marks the company’s 25th anniversary.
Johnson said the Owensboro studio currently has about 10 instructors, many of whom have been part of the team for years — some starting as clients before becoming certified instructors.
“What sets us apart is that this is more than just a workout,” she said. “It’s a results-driven, science-backed program, but it’s also a place where friendships form, and people support each other through all parts of life.”
Memberships are flexible, ranging from class packs to unlimited monthly and annual options. Most clients choose an unlimited package, Johnson said, allowing them to attend as often as they’d like.
For those new to Pure Barre, the studio is offering a special January promotion: buy one class and try all four formats. Additionally, anyone can book a free introductory class through the website.
“It’s the perfect time of year to try something new,” Johnson said. “We’d love to have more people experience what Pure Barre is all about.”
For more information or to book a class, visit the Pure Barre Owensboro website.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at 270-926-1860 or shelly@owensboro.com.
By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times