It looks like ballet, feels like Pilates and offers the
flexibility of yoga. Barre fitness
classes are ballet-inspired, incorporating the use of a ballet barre and some
ballet moves to music. These highly effective classes mix elements of Pilates,
dance, yoga and functional training, with a repertoire that is choreographed to
motivating music. In each energizing and targeted class, you’ll use the Barre
and exercise equipment such as mini-balls, resistance bands, and small hand
weights to sculpt, slim and stretch your entire body.
Here are some great reasons to try a Barre workout!
1. Easy on the joints, but hard on muscles. The super-controlled,
micro movements that take place in Barre classes reduce pressure on your
joints, tendons, ligaments and spine. Done regularly, you'll also see improved core
strength and posture. A stronger core
will make you look taller and thinner, but it will also keep you safe from
injuries.
2. Anyone can do Barre, regardless of experience. Everyone
has different starting points, strengths and challenges, and instructors
recognize that. If you are worried about not having any dance training or fear
you won’t be able to ‘get it’ or keep up, rest assured that instructors will
guide you through the movements and offer helpful feedback without singling you
out. And, remember, each person can be challenged at their own level in class
without affecting anyone else’s workout. Always measure progress against
yourself; not the person next to you!
3. It’s a full body workout. After each class, your entire
body will have been stretched, strengthened and invigorated. Barre provides a
sense of empowerment, but also offers the relaxed feeling you get after a yoga
class.
4. Work muscles to failure. Barre's isometric moves with
high repetitions, pulses and holds are designed to fatigue muscles to failure. Muscle shaking is one of the characteristics
of a Barre class. It’s often said that “if
you’re not shaking, you’re not doing it right!” Embrace the shaking as it’s totally natural
for your muscles to quiver uncontrollably – it means you are exhausting that
muscle and forcing it to tone
.
5. Increased flexibility. Through focused stretching, an
improved range-of-motion is one of the greatest benefits of Barre exercise.
Sometimes people are flexible but not strong, or strong and not flexible, so
whether you can sit comfortably in a pretzel position or you’re stiffer than a
board, Barre classes actually teach your body to be both. Having flexibility
and strength allows you to enjoy a longer, active life free of injuries.
6. Look better naked!
You’ll lose weight and inches, so your clothes will fit better and you’ll
look better in a bathing suit. Many of
the workouts target the largest muscle groups in the body, like the thighs and
glutes. The larger the muscle, the more calories burned! As you continue to
attend class, you will build more lean muscle mass which helps to raise your
resting metabolic rate, to help you to burn more calories. If you combine Barre
workouts with a healthy diet, you will achieve even better results.
7. FAST results. You’ll be sore after the first few classes,
but you’ll also notice major results in a short time! If you perform a Barre
workout 2-4 times weekly, you will typically notice changes in as little as one
month. Changes may include an improved posture, thinner thighs, chiseled arms,
a sculpted back, flat abs and a lifted seat. Barre classes are incredibly
effective at transforming so-called 'problem' areas, especially for women.
These are all great reasons to try one of the most popular
workouts around. Give it a try. Your body will transform, and you’ll feel
great!
