What is Barre? Why should I take a Barre Class?
What’s Barre?
Barre is based on ballet and Pilates principles. It incorporates small isometric movements, primarily low impact and is one of the best muscle toning routines out there. You do not need a dance background to participate in a Barre class, anyone of any skill level can partake. Because of Barre’s low impact nature, it is enjoyed by those with arthritis, injuries, other movement limitations, those who are just beginning their fitness journey, pregnant women and seniors. In Barre we focus on proper form and posture. It involves equipment used in ballet, namely the ballet barre, and some additional equipment used in Pilates and other fitness workouts such as hand weights, tubing and exercise balls. Barre is not associated with the use of heavy weights (more than 5 lbs).
Why should I take a Barre Class?
The goal of a Barre workout is to “provide individuals with a total body workout that fuses the strength, conditioning, and flexibility of dancers with the repetition, muscle loading and structure of a traditional fitness class” (Barre Essentials handbook, IBBFA).
Benefits of a Barre workout:
Barre builds a strong Core. A strong core means better posture, less back pain and so much more.
Barre Classes are also great for working and strengthening the Arm muscles. Great for building definition in the arm.
Provides a great workout for the lower body. Targeted exercises that will strengthen your legs and Glutes.
Improves flexibility providing greater range of motion for daily activities.
Improved posture, balance and co-ordination.
Reduces risk of injury since routines tend to be low impact
Classes rejuvenate and energize your mind as there is an emphasis on mind body connection. This promotes bodily awareness as you focus on alignment cues which helps you be more intentional with your movements.
Gentle on the joints
Builds muscle endurance
Equipment required for an online Barre class:
A sturdy surface that’s about waist high, for example, a countertop, a chair, window, bar stools. These are used as a support to maintain balance.
An exercise mat
Optional equipment, pilates ball or small pillow, hand weights (1-3 lbs)
Shoes are not required
Check out our class schedule to do a Barre class.
