NEIGHBORHOOD barre is a boutique fitness franchise that focuses on inclusive barre workouts designed for all fitness levels. The brand was founded in 2011 by Katy Richardson in Knoxville, Tennessee, after she left her corporate accounting job to launch the first studio.

The company is headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia, and continues to expand nationwide. NEIGHBORHOOD barre began franchising in 2015, giving entrepreneurs the chance to open locally owned studios under a proven boutique fitness model.

The franchise offers 30- and 50-minute barre classes that combine strength, cardio, and flexibility training. Its programs emphasize efficient, low-impact workouts delivered in a supportive, community-focused setting.

The franchise differentiates itself through its community-driven approach, approachable branding, and inclusive workout style that welcomes all fitness levels. Each studio is designed to feel like a neighborhood space, blending seamlessly with the local community while maintaining consistent programming and brand standards.

Training

Neighborhood Barre provides an extensive and multi-layered training system to ensure franchisees, their management teams, and instructors are fully prepared to operate within brand standards. The training programs include mandatory modules for owners, managers, and instructors, as well as optional refresher and remedial support.

1. Initial Training Program: Franchisees or their designated Operating Principals must complete the Owner/Operator Module before opening the studio. This training is conducted either virtually or in person and covers the operational aspects required for launch and compliance.
2. Initial Instructor Training: Every instructor who provides services at the studio must complete this program before delivering any classes. It ensures consistent service delivery and adherence to Neighborhood Barre’s instructional standards.
3. Key Manager Training Program: If the franchisee appoints a manager not involved in daily operations, that individual must complete the Key Manager Module to oversee the studio effectively.
4. Ongoing and Refresher Training: Franchisees and management personnel may be required to attend up to five days of training each year. These sessions focus on updates to procedures, service standards, and new initiatives.
5. Remedial Training: If service or operational standards fall short, the franchisor may assign trainers on-site to restore compliance. This may involve repeating prior training programs, and fees are typically charged for this assistance.

Territory Protection

Neighborhood Barre provides its franchisees with a Designated Territory that is considered “exclusive” under franchise disclosure laws. This territory is typically based on a population size (up to 50,000 people) or a defined geographic area such as a radius around the studio, specific streets, or zip codes.

While the franchisor will not allow another Neighborhood Barre studio to operate within this territory, the exact size and shape may vary based on local demographics and pre-existing locations.

However, the franchisor retains broad rights to operate or authorize similar businesses outside the Designated Territory, including through other trademarks or at “Non-Traditional Sites” like malls, gyms, or airports. It can also sell services and products via the internet or alternative distribution channels within a franchisee’s territory.