Catherine Thorpe

I started Full Out Barre (FOB) after this little barre class gained momentum at several local fitness clubs. Now brick and mortar, FOB is a fitness studio franchise housed by dance studios and is the first nationally accredited fitness brand from Arkansas. We provide a judgment-free workout community for all fitness levels, blending barre and high intensity interval training to burn calories (550-800 per class!) with fun music and positive motivation. We now have a location in Bryant, owned by Ashley Trover, and a downtown location coming soon housed by Ballet Arkansas.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion:

I started teaching dance at 18, but everything changed as a Kansas City Chiefs pro cheerleader. My coach and the women were so encouraging, loving and empowering. Combining dance and community has been a passion of mine ever since.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field:

Fitness is not just for "fit" people, it's for everyone. You don't have to arrive at a certain point to start working on yourself; just start.

Best career moment so far:

When I walked in to sub for another FOB instructor and everyone was disappointed because they didn't realize who I was. I was thrilled! In that moment I knew I had a business on my hands and not just another fitness class.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day:

My people and love for the barre. My favorite place to be is in a sweaty dance studio with loud music and people I love.

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about:

Girls on the Run, a mentoring program for third-fifth grade girls. One of our instructors started it and it's incredible.

What makes Little Rock feel like home:

I grew up here and still one of my favorite things to do is take back roads through neighborhoods to get where I am going. I love all the neighborhoods and the memories made in each one along the way.

I wish I knew how to:

Play the piano and water ski, but not at the same time.

Best advice I've ever received:

Treat your friends like family and your family like friends. And don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle or end.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion:

The one thing I wish people knew about my field:

Best career moment so far:

What keeps me coming back to my job every day:

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about:

What makes Little Rock feel like home:

I wish I knew how to:

Best advice I've ever received:

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Little Rock

First thing I do at the office

Hug my people

Best coffee in town

The Capital Hotel

Binge watch

"New Girl"

Last good read

“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins

Podcast recommendation

"How I Built This”

Best recent local discovery

Dos Rocas Beer & Tacos

Latest splurge

new dining room table and chairs

Hobbies

Spend time with my husband Wes and our three precious kids, run, dance, listen to live music around town

Most-used app

Lime. I am obsessed with these scooters!

SPONSORS