The Dailey Method

I’ve tried a few different barre studios since I started getting into it about 6 months ago, and this is one of my regulars now.
Pros:
— Good workout and suitable for all levels. The instructors will usually provide easier or more challenging adjustments for each move and correct your form.
— Clean shower and dressing room area with keycode lockers.
— Instructors switch up their routines every so often, so you don’t get too comfortable doing the same moves in the same order week after week.
Cons:
— Classes are taught in a carpeted room. During stretches and child’s pose especially, I think the carpet smells a tiny bit weird.

I love this studio! I’ve been going for a few months following shoulder surgery and they are so accommodating while still whipping my body back into shape. It took a couple of classes to get the hang of it, but definitely worth sticking with. You can get a solid workout that will make you tremble in one hour, as opposed to spending half your evening at an overcrowded gym. And the results are fast! I feel stronger and more toned every time I go and class always leaves me feeling refreshed and energized.
Class feel:
The classes have people from all levels– some are exceptionally toned and flexible, and others (like me) can’t touch their toes without some serious effort. It makes the class really feel like a community where everyone is accepting of each other and their abilities. It’s also nice that the class has so many modification options that one class can accommodate all levels.
Instructors:
Instructors are bright and welcoming without being overbearing. They pay special attention to every student and will help you adjust your poses as needed. I especially love the attitudes here. They always find a way to make you laugh when half the class is shaking and really ‘feeling the burn’.
Studio:
Location is very central and the studio is awesome! It’s clean and modern, and feels small enough that after a couple of visits you basically become a regular. The changing area has free lockers (yeah– FREE) and you don’t even need to bring your own lock. They also have clean showers that are never packed and fresh towels.
What more could you want? …How about a class schedule that actually works around your schedule. Yep, with classes from 630am to 7pm, you have literally no excuse for missing a workout.
Finally, the owners are very encouraging without trying to oversell you on anything. I feel like your fitness is a priority for them and they do a great job of making membership feel like a personal experience.
Highly recommended!

I’ve taken barre classes at Pop Physique, Bar Method and other Dailey Method locations but I have to say that this studio is hands down the best I’ve experienced thus far! I’m absolutely in love!
Here are the highlights:
— The workout is extremely challenging with significant attention ascribed to abs, thighs and seat muscles.
— The routines are varied and never feel repetitive or mundane.
— The instructors are very hands-​on with corrections (which I love!) and are simply the friendliest folks ever! I especially recommend Angel, Camille, Brittany (studio owner) and Kaitlyn.
— The location is close to Civic Center/​Mission/​Hayes and very accessible via muni.
— A comprehensive workout for beginners and frequent barre-​indulgers alike.
Enjoy!

I tried this out with the monthly pass and it’s not for everyone. I wrote this to help sort out whether it’s right for you.
The Good:
— Gorgeous, generous shower/​changing facilities. This was — hands-​down — the best part of the experience for me and would have made Dailey the perfect on-​my-​way-​to-​work exercise had the rest of the experience worked out. First of all, it’s gorgeous. White and silver and (I think) slate tile with wood accents. Secondly, it’s in the back. So your stuff is secure and you don’t feel like you’re doing your business two steps from the sidewalk. They have free keypad lockers so you don’t have to make a special ‘workout’ trip and then go home to get the rest of your stuff. The toilets are single-​occupancy private rooms. The showers were stocked with EO products and had curtains for privacy. Lots of thick, freshly-​laundered towels. It was nicer than I had at home, honestly.
— Childcare. You can add Childcare to many classes for something like $ 9. I don’t even use it and I was impressed. It’s cheap, convenient, and probably a lifesaver for the moms who come here.
— It’s safe. Dailey is unlikely to injure you, even if you’re somewhat fragile.
— Community. This seems like one of the homier places to work out. They had a «monthly challenge» board people were putting stickers on for each workout they did. The staff were all friendly and encouraging.
— Great Location. Right on Market street which is how I found it in the first place.
The Bad:
— Socks on carpet. The floor is industrial-​type carpeting and you are required to wear socks. I would never have signed up if I’d known this and regretted my purchase immediately because it’s exactly as awful an experience as it sounds. They sell little ‘sticky socks’ at the front and people wear them, but it’s a half-​measure at best. I saw one woman wearing an athletic foot wrap that covered the sweaty parts of her feet but left her toes and heels bare. If I’d stayed and this had been an option, I probably would have gone with it. However, since I was just trying the studio out and it wasn’t clear whether this was really permitted, I didn’t want to buy any special equipment. Anyhow, the carpet would still be there.
— Not good for beginners. Normally, the first couple of weeks of a class (when you’re starting from zero) is when you get the most benefit: Just starting to exercise helps, you go home the first week in agony, and things get better from there. Dailey (as its name implies) is really the sort of workout you do every day (maybe even more than once) for a long while before it starts to pay off.
Unlike most methods, Dailey uses small movements for long periods of time. (For example, one class had 10 minutes of holding a «V» posture followed by 10 minutes of holding my arms out in a «T».) This means that if you’re not strong enough to hold the pose yet, you’ll collapse before you get much of a workout. I can see it doing amazing things once you get past the «ramp up» period, but as a beginner not only was I not able to fully participate I wasn’t really getting exercised.
Helpful hints:
— Interval is GREAT for beginners. I had one «interval» class, by accident, because the brochure suggests that it’s an «advanced» technique and I thought I needed to practice a while before joining. If I did this again, I’d do interval first. It’s the only class that left me feeling I’d really had a workout and doesn’t have as many of the long poses a beginner cannot do yet.
— You need to be comfortable holding your own space. My last class was unexpectedly crowded and since there’s no «stations» (like Burn) and the instructors don’t «manage» people’s location, it can get uncomfortable for the less bold of us. It was so awkward, I left in the middle. When I wrote to the owner, he informed me that class hadn’t even been «full» which was enough to ensure I never went back. In retrospect, most classes were not crowded, but I was looking for a long term commitment, and didn’t want to have to worry about it.
— If you’re new and considering a monthly pass, buy it at the studio where it’s $ 10 cheaper.
I could make only one change:
It would be the carpet/​sock thing. There are good reasons nobody does that.

I’ve tried to avoid writing this Unilocal review for years – as I knew it would take a great deal out of me to get it just right. This is the best studio, workout, whole fitness bang for your buck, by far. I never want to leave, and when I do, I return – daily (or Dailey!)! I’ve been practicing barre for almost five years. I started at bar method, my bar method studio then switched hands to an independent (better) barre focused workout, and soon after that I moved up to SF – and thankfully found this gem. I’m a devotee. I will do anything these instructors say, and I truly believe I’m a better person because of it. I’ve been at this studio for about three years. I’ve seen some amazing instructors come and go, but Brittany (owner and epitome of all instructors) is constantly training to craft the best of the best teachers. As for a comparison to other barre workouts in the area, I’ve only tried cardio barre – and my experience is most notably remembered as a discombobulated mess. There was no emphasis on form, body awareness, or proper technique whatsoever. As compared to my past bar method in a different locale, TDM is much more intense and fulfilling in terms of a daily workout experience. Also, I hate to gossip, but I’ve heard some rumors that this is one of the better TDM studios in SF. So, we’re in good company.

I am relatively new to The Dailey Method, and I have to say that I am absolutely loving it. I have been struggling since having my baby 3 years ago to find something that I liked and that I felt was a true workout. I had been a runner for 15+ years and had done yoga for years as well. Then came the baby and I just couldn’t motivate to do any of these things. It was ultimately because of a rehabbed torn meniscus and a friend’s recommendation that I walked into the Castro/​Mission studio. I am so thankful that I did. It’s such a comfortable space, and I never feel judged as I learn more about the practice. The instructors are friendly, seriously inspiring, always willing to help with questions and concerns, and have made me feel very welcome.
The workout is absolutely amazing. I felt so much stronger after just two classes. It kicks your butt! It’s hard, but it is totally do-​able. You work at whatever level you’re at. I am feeling fitter and stronger than I have in years, and I’m already starting to see results with more tone in my arms and rock solid thighs. As long as I keep it up, my problem areas don’t stand a chance.
Lastly, they have childcare for at least 2 classes, usually more, every day of the week. The open and encouraging environment that Brittany and Mike cultivate is a breath of fresh air, and the opportunity that they provide for someone like me who needs childcare in order to exercise, is amazing. I truly can’t believe that I love working out again.

I’ve been going to different Dailey Method studios off and on for many years, but I can say that the Mission-​Castro studio and these classes saved my sanity this past year. I originally went to the studio in the Marina, but when I moved to the other side of the City, I started going to this location. I immediately loved it. It feels much more relaxed than other studios I’ve been to and I feel more comfortable among my classmates… there’s less Lululemon and more normally sized women.
The most important benefit from Dailey Method is the dramatic change in my state of mind after I’ve attended a class. I always feel lighter and exhilarated when I leave class and my positive mood continues through the entire day. A few months ago, when I hit a rough spot emotionally and was very depressed, Dailey Method (and the camaraderie and friendly atmosphere of this location specifically) really saved my life. Going to class was the only activity that guaranteed a perk in my mood. Brittany and Mike have created a great environment for working out.
I also love how quickly you see results… within weeks of attending regularly, my arms were more toned and my pants were looser. After a couple of months, friends began commenting on the change to my physique. Don’t get me wrong… there are days when I walk out of class cursing Dailey Method… my legs are so shaky and I can’t laugh because my abs are in so much pain. But I’ve become more confident with my body and feel stronger, both physically and mentally, than I ever have.

I love barre. It’s a great way to build your core and tone. It’s hard as hell. I will admit that I go to BOTH Bar Method and Dailey Method (which might be a taboo). As far as Dailey Method studios go, this is my favorite. Great instructors and the studio is conveniently located on Market Street.

I can’t say enough about this class! The instructor, Brittany, was amazing. She made the class fun and very inviting. I hope I have the opportunity to join another class of hers during my stay in San Francisco. Thanks again Brittany for such a fun time!

I started doing Dailey when I was 4 months pregnant, and immediately got hooked. I had been exercising before, but this shaped my body in a way that nothing else had. I’m now 8.5 months prego, have been doing Dailey about 3 days a week, and can honestly say I’m in better shape then I was before I was pregnant! The teachers are excellent for providing modifications and the low-​impact routines are ideal for pregnancy. I had tried Dailey method and other bar classes before, but did not enjoy the vibe I got from the other studios. This studio is welcoming, clean and has superb teachers. I consider Dailey as part of my birth preparations as I’ve had to learn how to breath through discomfort in every class! Its a kick-​ass workout !

I’ve been coming here for years and yet my favorite spot to work out in the city. The location is super convenient both for muni riders and drivers, parking isn’t easy, but manageable in the late hours. The staff, the instructors, but even the owner, Britney is friendly to everyone, they treat clients as their best friends. The place is always clean and they have a separate playroom for kids.
Family oriented business with a touch of love, coming here makes me relax at the end of my days. Easy to socialize and make friends. Their rates are normal, nothing fancy, joining is easy without long term commitments.

The Dailey Method Castro location is outstanding! I’ve been going here on and off for about 6 months and all of their instructors are wonderful. They inspire you through your workout. It can be challenging but the focus on core strength is exactly what I need. Highly recommended!

I’ve been a member for a year now and I can honestly say this is the first exercise routine I’ve been able to stick with on a regular schedule. I hate most gyms but I love that Dailey Method offers structured classes in a warm, friendly environment. It’s all positivity and a little bit of tough love, but never in a negative, shaming way. The instructors all have very different personalities, so you’ll probably like some instruction styles more than others but that’s pretty normal, I think.
The facilities are always impeccably clean and never smelly. They also have a cute little daycare area for members with kids, which I think is a great idea!

This review is long due. I have been doing Dailey Method for 5 years and for me there is no better way to get a whole fitness experience, especially since I have to limit my high impact activities. I have been coming to the Mission-​Castro studio since they opened. All of the instructors here are superb and unique, and I always get a great workout. What I want to speak to is how wonderful the environment is at this studio. Brittany and Mike have really gone out of their way to create a space that is welcoming and open. All fitness levels, body types, orientations and body art welcome! Rock on!

This is my first review in 4 years but I just have to jump on the 5 star bandwagon. I came to The Dailey Method about three years ago after tearing my acl and mcl playing baseball. I had gained about 30 lbs and was extremely nervous to be in a mirrored room wearing spandex. My first class was with Sabine and it was punishing but she was very attentive to me as a newbie and offered modifications for my knee and alignment adjustments. I was hooked.
I was able to shed the weight over six months and developed killer arms and abs in the process. I never feel like I’m doing the same routine in any class. It is expensive but completely worth it. I’m someone who needs to be pushed during my workouts or else I’ll just half ass my way through.
I have since moved back to my hometown and am now realizing how lucky I was to practice at The Dailey Method. I’m forced to go to Barre 3 now and it sucks in comparison. TDM rocks for these reasons:
–Brittany and Mike have poured their souls into their studio and it shows! I’ve often seen Brittany take notes in other instructors classes and she’s constantly introducing new ways to kill us. (I say this endearingly)
–I am greeted by name in every class and the teachers are knowledgable about the human anatomy and are proactive in providing modifications, adjustments and motivation.
–clients come in all shapes and sizes and I’ve never felt neglected in class because I don’t have the stereotypical «barre body».
–I GET RESULTS!
So, for anyone on the fence about attending, do yourself a favor and go!

I absolutely LOVE the Dailey Method Mission-​Castro. I’ve been coming to the studio for more than 18 months and it’s made me feel amazing inside and out. All of the instructors conduct their classes with kindness, knowledge, and a sense of humor. They know so much about how to target and work out each and every muscle in the body safely and effectively. After committing to go 3 – 5 times a week, I feel much more fit, understand my body better, and have much better posture.
Also, the studio has a great sense of community, and owners Mike and Brittany are super kind, accommodating, and encouraging. So — thank you!

Dailey Method Castro is fantastic!
Mike and Brittany have done a fantastic job creating a wonderful Dailey Method studio in the heart of the city. I had been a long time Dailey Method Downtown member, but when my first baby came and I was on maternity leave — Dailey Method Castro became my sanctuary. With Childcare at 8:30 and 9:45 everyday it was my ritual and really kept me sane.
I love the warm, family friendly vibe and is at this studio. It’s intimate and lovely.
Brittany of course will kick your butt, and Jonathan, Leah, Jaime & Usha are my other favs. Leah and Jonathan remind me of my dancer background and have fantastic classes with great technique.
Now I am back to work full time, so I thought I would be back to the downtown location more, but I find myself just feeling more comfortable with the Castro location.
Thanks for all the great teachers, warm and supportive vibe! Love you DM Castro!

I love the Dailey Method Mission-​Castro! I’ve been going consistently 2x a week for the past year and a half. I am the strongest and most fit I have ever been.
The owners, Brittany and Mike, and their staff are friendly, knowledgable, and approachable. Each instructor has something different to offer which keeps the workouts fun and interesting.
If you’re looking to shake up your usual routine and get fit fast, I recommend joining TDM.

I love, love, love this studio! I started Dailey Method 4 years ago at the Danville studio. After moving out of Danville I tried 4 other studios, and just didn’t like the energy/​instructors/​environment quite as much — until the Castro studio!
The teachers are all fantastic — high energy, very knowledgeable about injuries /​correct body positioning, play great music, and friendly. They’re also all in killer shape which is of course motivating.
If you haven’t tried Dailey, nothing will get you in shape like these classes! They tone without bulking, burn a ton of calories, and will leave you with better posture and core strength. Highly recommend!

Love this place! I alternate between this studio and the one downtown, depending on my work schedule — but have been coming here much more often recently due to the great staff and community vibe.
While the workout will absolutely kick your ass (in a good way), the atmosphere here is very open and welcoming, which I love. There’s no «typical class attendee» — each class has a range of ages, body types and experience levels. The instructors know their stuff, too: my favorites are Jonathan, Jamie, Abby & Leah.
Facilities are beautiful as well — mints at the door on the way out are a great touch :)