Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Kronenfeld.
Hi Sara, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Greensboro, NC, and went to UNC Chapel Hill—go Heels! I was on the pre-dental track with every intention of going to dental school. After graduation, I moved to Wilmington to live with my sister and spent that summer studying for and taking the DAT.
While I was there, I started taking Pure Barre classes at the local studio and really loved it. One day, I noticed an application to franchise on their website. That night, I couldn’t stop thinking about how exciting it would be to build something like that. It was the first time I felt genuinely pulled in a different direction. I realized if I was already second-guessing the dental path before even starting, I should probably pause before committing more time and money. My DAT scores were good for five years, so I figured I could always revisit that route if needed.
I ended up applying to franchise a Pure Barre, but the areas I was interested in were already taken. That led me to apply to franchise another well-known barre brand. I got pretty far in that process, but when I flew out to Portland for the final interview, they told me I was too young and didn’t come across as confident enough to teach or run a studio.
That feedback pushed me to get real experience. I reached out to every Pure Barre studio near where I was planning to move to see if anyone was hiring instructors. The Durham studio was, and I got the job. I became a teacher and started building experience from the ground up. Around the same time, I got my real estate license and began working in that field as well.
About three years into teaching, the Durham and Chapel Hill Pure Barre studios went up for sale. I already knew the community and the business from the inside, so it felt like the right next step. I made the leap—and that’s how I got to where I am today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
If anyone tells you entrepreneurship or running a small business has been a smooth road, they’re probably about a week in. No, it definitely hasn’t been smooth—but it’s been an adventure, and I’ve learned and grown so much along the way.
About two years into my journey came March of 2020… need I say more? Navigating a business during a global pandemic was one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. Since then, I’ve learned to pivot at every turn, appreciate the moments when things are going smoothly, and rise to the occasion when they’re not.
What’s made all the difference is the incredible team of women I work with at Pure Barre. Their dedication, flexibility, and positivity are a huge part of what keeps the business going. And I’m beyond grateful for the support of my family and friends, especially during the tough stretches. This path hasn’t been easy, but it’s absolutely been worth it.
As you know, we’re big fans of Pure Barre Durham & Chapel Hill. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Pure Barre, we offer a transformative full-body workout that combines elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga with our own spin. Our classes focus on low-impact, high-intensity movements designed to strengthen and tone your body in 50 minutes or less. We provide four signature class formats:
Pure Barre Classic – Our original barre class, utilizing small, isometric movements to improve strength and flexibility.
Pure Barre Empower – A fusion of our classic technique with high-intensity interval training, incorporating ankle weights and a plyometric platform to elevate your heart rate.
Pure Barre Align – Combines our classic strength-building barre technique with a unique emphasis on flexibility and balance training.
Pure Barre Define – Focuses on weight-based strength training to develop muscular strength and power.
What truly sets us apart is our community. While each member may have different reasons for attending, we all share the common goal of becoming stronger individuals, both physically and mentally. There’s an unparalleled energy in the studio when everyone is collectively challenging themselves to grow and improve.
As the owner, I wear many hats: from teaching classes at both our Durham and Chapel Hill studios to supporting our incredible team in various capacities. I’m immensely proud of the community we’ve built over the past eight years. Each team member brings dedication and passion, showing up daily to support our members. In return, I strive to provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive.
Our members are the heart of our studios. Each person contributes to the vibrant, supportive, and fun environment that defines Pure Barre. Their unique personalities and commitment make our community truly special.
Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, Pure Barre offers classes that cater to all levels. We invite you to join us and experience the transformative power of our workouts and the strength of our community.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Gosh, this is always a tough one!
Even though I run multiple businesses where I’m very front-facing, I’m actually a big introvert and really value my quiet time to recharge.
Another thing most people don’t know about me—especially surprising given what I do—is that I have a pretty intense foot phobia. So any time I’m giving hands-on corrections in class, I’m carefully avoiding feet or quietly cringing through it if I have to adjust something down there. It’s a little ironic for someone who spends so much time in a studio telling people what to do with their feet, but I make it work!
In another life I feel like I should have been Carrie Underwood – but I can’t sing to save my life so being on the Pure Barre mic is about as close as I’ll get!
Pricing:
- $30-$179 depending on single classes versus memberships etc. Pricing is also online
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.purebarre.com/location/chapel-hill-nc
- Instagram: @purebarrechapelhill_durham
- Other: https://www.purebarre.com/location/durham-nc
