Being completely honest, what most attracted me to trying out a barre class today was the concept of using the actual barre. I love to work on my flexibility and including dance moves (ballerina-like) sounded like a good idea. I must say I was pleasantly surprised by how much more goes into a barre class and also how difficult it really is.

WHAT IS BARRE?

If trying a barre class sounds kind of fun but you don’t really know what the heck to expect, I was right with you! Quoting Sadie Lincoln which is actually the founder of barre3 fitness and the studio I decided to try out barre for the first time, “most barre-based classes use a combination of postures inspired by ballet and other disciplines like Yoga and Pilates. The bar is used as a prop to balance while doing exercises that focus on isometric strength training combined with high reps of small range-of-motion movements.” Many barre classes also include mats for targeted core work and dumbbells to increase the burn through out your movements.

What to Expect from a Barre Class

Ok, so you finally stopped just thinking about taking a barre class and you actually signed up. Now what? As with any other workout routine, each studio will provide a different experience but in essence it will be a 60-minute session where you will start with a warm-up and set of upper body exercises which may include moves such as planks and push-ups.

Once you’re warmed up, you will work your entire body. We went from side lunges to holding squat position to movements that involve your whole body and oh, was I feeling the burn! You will eventually add in dumbbells and of course the part that intrigued me (and probably you) about trying out a barre class, the ballet barre. Using your own body weight as resistance, you will focus mainly on your leg muscles and your core.

After that, we went down to the mat where we did exercises to really work that booty and for the cool down, we worked through a series of stretches meant to allow your muscles to recover all while increasing your flexibility.

One of the biggest perks of barre classes is that they combine strength training and cardio. You are not only burning fat but you are also building muscle to obtain a more lean, defined look. Isn’t that what most of us want?

Don’t be intimidated if you are new to working out, people at any fitness level can sign up for a barre class and since barre classes are low-impact they are perfect for pregnant women as well! Some professionals actually believe it helps with imbalance and stability which is a common issue with pregnancy as the belly grows.

What to Wear to Barre Class

When choosing your workout attire, think comfortable and stretchy. Anything you would wear to yoga would be appropriate. As for footwear, you can go barefoot or grippy socks.

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