Barre fitness, what the heck is that? The best way to describe Barre is a group fitness class that is a hybrid of yoga, pilates, and ballet. During the workout, you will likely use a wide variety of props including the ballet barre (get the name now?). The intensity level and general workout will depend on the instructor. Some classes will focus on giving you a high-intensity cardio-focused workout while others will focus more on stretching, strengthening, and lengthening muscles.
What to Expect
Come prepared to Barre class by wearing yoga attire, having bare feet, and bringing your yoga mat. The workout will get you sweating, so make sure you have water and a towel handy. During the class, you can expect a short warm up to get your muscles ready to work. Your workout will then begin. The class will work your entire body, normally from head to toe. Other things to prepare for, the props. Throughout the class, you will use a number of props such as the ballet barre, balls, weights, resistance bands, and much more. The instructor will always cue you on the props and how to use them.
While this is a whole body workout, it tends to focus a lot on the lower body as you perform traditional ballet movements such as; relevé (to lift), plie (bend your knees into a position similar to a squat), arabesque (a type of kick), and others. Do the ballet movements intimidate you? Don’t worry your Barre instructor will demonstrate and show you how it’s done.
If this is your first class be prepared to be corrected on form. This is a good thing, the instructors watch to ensure you are completing the movements with proper form.
The Workout Itself
Still want to know more on what exactly the workout entails? Well get ready for:
- Squats
- Cardio
- Downward dog
- Bridges
- Pushups
- Planks
- Lots of pulsing and it will burn!
- And much more!
In general, be prepared for your muscles to burn in a good way!