The Benefits of Barre
While doing my daily instagram scroll I noticed many Victoria Secret models participate barre workouts . I have ALWAYS been interested in the workouts these models do to get their bodies in such amazing shape (especially, while prepping for the annual Victoria Secret fashion show..*insert hands up emoji*). And, I don’t know about you, but if it’s working for the models I’m willing to give this style workout a try. Also, as a former dancer, participating in a class that includes a ballet barre brought back some sweet memories. A few months ago I attended a barre class just to see what all the hype was about and let’s just say I’m SO HAPPY I did!!!!
So, what is barre anyways? and why are models and celebrities alike raising the barre (pun intended) when it comes to this style of workout? Let me break it down for you!
First, you can leave your tutu at home, and you don’t need any former dancing experience to be good at barre (beginners are welcome). Barre is described as a low-impact conditioning class with high-intensity movements that combines ballet, the strengthening of Pilates and the stretching of yoga all within a 45-60mins class. Barre classes strengthen your core, and tone and elongate your muscles giving you a lean and feminine physique (I mean who doesn’t want to appear leaner and lengthier?). The actual “barre” itself is the prop that you use throughout the class and allows you to do isometric strength exercises, (for example, holding your body very still for 10 secs while you contract a small set of muscles). Most barre studios will have you use light equipment such as 2-3lbs weights and rubber bands as you move through the class. Let me explain though, that this isn’t a workout where you’ll come out looking all sweaty like a boxing or spin class, but IT IS a workout that is challenging (in a good way!) where your muscles will shake and you will learn to embrace the burn you will feel in your “seat”. Ultimately, you will feel stronger, energized and empowered after every class.
Below are some SERIOUS benefits of barre that I found delivered results almost immediately:
1. You Will Feel STRONGER!
Strong is the new skinny and strong is SEXY!!! Barre will essentially sculpt your muscles and will make you feel stronger in your everyday life.
2. You Will See a Difference in Your “Seat” aka Bum!
Barre classes have a big emphasis on seat work. Throughout the class you will be guided through movements that will activate your glutes and build your bum – your bum will look lifted!
3. You Will Feel Slimmer!
Just after a couple of weeks of attending barre classes I felt slimmer. My muscles felt more toned and my legs looked longer!
4. Your Posture Will Improve.
Barre classes include posture enhancing movements along with stretching that help that help you feel and look taller. After a few classes I felt like I was elongated and walking taller with more confidence. I also want to add that my balanced got better. As a girl who has single-sided balance disorder this was a big one for me. I noticed I’m much better at holding movements for longer periods without feeling like I am going to fall over.
5. You Will Become More Flexible.
There is quite a good mix of good stretching before and after the hard work performed in class which leaves your muscles long and lean. After some weeks of attending, you’ll notice improved flexibility.
6. Hello Abs!
Your abs will be engaged throughout the entire workout as you use your abs to hold your body in alignment giving you a killerrrrr core workout. Trust me when I say this, holding a plank for 90 secs is harder than it looks.
Barre workouts have become so popular that you can pretty much find a studio in any major city. If you are in the Hamilton area, I highly recommend visiting FitBarre. Sara and her skilled team of barre instructors will give you a no-nonse barre workout of tucks and energetic beats that will have you shaking and smiling throughout the entire class!!!
So, will you be meeting me at the barre?… I hope so! ;)
Xo Jessica
#staychic
