Research on the efficacy of traditional ballet barre exercises in relation to student learning and performance in technique class essentially is non-existent. This research explored how students described their experiences with barre work as well as how they saw these experiences as developing desired skills for moving in the center work. Interviews were conducted with seven intermediate level collegiate ballet students. Three themes emerged from the students' responses: psychological and physiological benefits of preparing at the barre, students' desires to sense and perceive the barre exercises' purpose, and issues with transferring stability. Further research is proposed to explore how teachers might design and communicate an effective and efficient series of barre exercises. These areas include: inner focus connected to outer spatial awareness, student understanding of how an exercise connects to specific skills, repetition as a tool for awareness and skill development, and techniques for stability acquisition and sustainment. (Contains 1 table.)