Before making waves in Bangkok, Physique 57 was already a name whispered in New York’s glossier circles – synonymous with sculpted muscles, endorphin highs and a post-class brunch in Manhattan, followed by a slow city stroll and maybe a little shopping in Soho. A lifestyle lifted from the screen – the kind Carrie Bradshaw might have lived if she traded stilettos for sticky socks. And while she once famously said her cardio came from shopping, it turns out Sarah Jessica Parker herself swears by Physique 57. And really – who are we not to listen to her?
I joined a Sculpt class – technically for those who’ve done barre before, but it’s beginner-friendly if you’re not new to moving your body. The instructors are sharp, constantly watching your form so you’re not just sweating – you’re moving safely and with purpose. The vibe in class felt focused and upbeat, with just the right balance of intensity and support. What makes this place special is how tuned-in the instructors are. They’re not just up front demoing moves – they’re walking around, offering cues that actually help and adjusting your form. Then came Bootylicious. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like – relentless, glute-focused and slightly evil (in a good way). It burns in all the right places. The kind of burn where your legs genuinely refuse to cooperate for 30 seconds afterward. But what’s precious the most is that they care more about form than how far you can push – because the right angle hits harder than any overachieving squat ever could. One sequence left legs visibly shaking – not from heavy weights, but from the sheer precision of each movement. It felt like barre’s version of ‘train to failure’ territory – a term you usually hear in weightlifting circles, but here it sneaks up mid-pulse, mid-burn. That’s how well-curated the class is.