This is a Barre Workout and Here’s Why You Need to Try It

It is safe to assume that most people know what to expect when they sign up for spin or yoga class, but barre is still a bit of a mystery for some. With more studios and gyms offering the work out, it is time to shed a little more light on what a barre class has to offer.

What is barre?

Barre, pronounced bar, is a ballet inspired workout that requires zero ballet training. While the actual exercise is not new, barre classes have not been as mainstream until more recently. Barre class is a low impact, full body workout that borrows moves from yoga, pilates, and ballet. Most barre classes consist of an upper body section, thighs and glutes at the barre, and a core section.

 

How to prepare for your barre workout

While all studios have some different rules, there are a few things you can come to expect. Most barre classes require very light weights, if you even use weights at all. The average barre class uses anywhere from 1 lb to 4 lb weights. Another common staple in barre is a pair of grippy socks. Some studios are carpeted, while others are hardwood, but most require you to wear a pair of special socks.

If you have ever been to an indoor trampoline park, you probably already own a pair. These socks ensure that your feet do not slip while you are in class. Lastly, you will need a mat. Studios usually offer free or low priced rental mats for class. Typically, they are a little thicker than your average yoga mat for additional padding.

Benefits of barre?

There are several benefits of hitting a barre class regularly. Barre increases your strength by working your muscles to fatigue. The reason you only need tiny weights is because you will be doing small, repetitive movements that challenge your muscles.

A great barre workout will challenge your mind-body connection and keep you muscles engaged. While you do work on strengthening your muscles in barre, you also have an opportunity to stretch. By combining the strengthening movements with appropriate stretches, you can see increased flexibility.

Lastly, barre can really help you with posture and core strength. Looking at your phone or computer for long periods of time can take a toll on your posture. A barre class will help you lengthen your spine and realign your posture. Good posture can help you have more energy and put less strain on your ligaments and muscles.

 

What you’ll achieve

Unlike some workouts, you will feel the burn while you are in class. Barre has a reputation for making your muscles shake and burn while motivating you to keep going.

After your first barre class, you may still experience some of that burn, but it is not permanent. A balanced barre class will provide you with low impact cardio, lengthening stretches, and a full body workout that will leave you feeling energized.