One of the best parts of my job is meeting people with dreams and a vision. And with our business being located downtown, it’s especially exciting to see those dreams come to life in our own backyard.
Cristi McKinney and Kassidy Eubanks are bringing their love of fitness to downtown Claremore. Studio 99 Barre – Yoga – Fitness will offer barre and yoga classes in an upscale, boutique setting.
Cristi said, “I’ve always wanted to do this in Claremore, and downtown is a perfect place for us. We want to just love on the people and build a community.”
Barre is a low-impact, high-intensity workout that fuses Pilates, dance, and functional fitness training. Through this class, small isolated movements are incorporated to fatigue the muscles, larger range of motions elevate the heart rate, and choreography is used that will give you a total body workout to make every second count. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, this class is for you! For barre class, bring water and sticky socks (Sticky Be socks are available for purchase at Studio 99 for $15).
Hot yoga uses two kinds of heat, both infrared and an actual heater. The average temperature in the room will be 85 – 100°. The heat penetrates the muscles, allowing more flexibility. The infrared is safer for the lungs and is not as moist. When I mentioned that I wasn’t sure about hot yoga, Cristi was quick to tell me that in the beginning, the temperature will be around 85° and will slowly rise in the weeks to come, to allow guests a chance to acclimate. For yoga class, bring a mat and water. (They do have some mats if you don’t have one and want to try it out, so don’t let that stop you.)
Kassidy said, “I love that one ‘practices’ yoga. It’s not something with an ending, that you can win. Everyone is practicing, every time they roll out their mat. Everyone is out of their comfort zone. Yoga is a great way to honor your body.”
The “Fitness” portion of the studio’s name allows Cristi and Kassidy to incorporate other types of exercise as the need arises. In fact, they aren’t even open yet, and have already added both Pound and Power Vinyasa Flow yoga classes to the schedule. Opening day is March 4!
Cristi and Kassidy are both highly trained in their field. All of their education has taught them how to tailor group workouts to an individual’s needs. So if there is a class of 15 guests on various fitness levels, everyone will leave feeling the burn, whether it was their first class or their fiftieth.
Both women have suffered from physical injuries in the past that led them to their current calling. Cristi had devastating injuries from basketball and Kassidy dealt with debilitating back pain from bulging discs. The beauty of barre and yoga is that they both provide an excellent workout that’s not stressful on the body.
It’s important to note that Studio 99 is not a “gym.” With extra touches like essential oils and towels provided, it’s definitely more of an experience. Cristi and Kassidy understand that it can be intimidating for newcomers, but remember, they were both new at one time, too. They’re excited to open others up to a new activity that’s good for the heart, soul, and body.
Another thing that separates Studio 99 from a typical group fitness setting is that the instructors don’t work out with the class. They focus on each guest, ensuring correct form for safety and effectiveness.
Are you curious about the name, Studio 99? It comes from the verse Matthew 18, the parable of the lost sheep. “If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost?” There will be times when women come in to the studio who are feeling lost, or unsure, and it’s the goal of the instructors to make sure she doesn’t leave feeling that way.
In addition to classes, Studio 99 will also host several events throughout the year. First up is a Girls Night Out on March 28; it’ll be a botox party!
Pricing for the classes are varied, based on packages. If you purchase an unlimited package in the first month, it’s $75, and $85 each month after that. With your membership, you’ll receive a free pair of Sticky Be socks, plus 10% off any retail merchandise.
Other options include a 10-class pass for $99, 5-class pass for $55, or one drop-in class for $12. Your first class is always FREE!
Guests will register using the MindBody app, which will allow them to sign up for classes (space is limited), read class descriptions and instructor bios, and sign up for childcare. Yes, childcare will be offered at the mid-morning classes! And if you’re looking for some extra cash, they are hiring more childcare workers.
Studio 99 is located at 406 W. Will Rogers, Ste 200. It’s above The District on Main; the door is tucked between The District and Coleman Antiques.
Follow Studio 99 on facebook and instagram to keep up with specials, class schedules, and events! For more info, email info@studio99ok.com.
Keep it local, Claremore!
-by MCM Staffer Ashley,
who is excited to try barre
