I’ve recently discovered a new workout that I am obsessing over…barre! It’s a mix of Pilates, yoga and some ballet-inspired moves, too. These body toning workouts are intense, but really fun and leave you with a slight glow. Here are my top 5 reasons for taking barre:
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Full body workout. The classes focus on targeting specific muscle groups throughout your whole body, leaving you worked out head to toe.
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All levels welcome and no experience is required. I was so nervous to take my first class – not necessary! The classes are totally customizable to your level of experience.
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Endurance. There’s a lot of holding certain positions, similar to a yoga class. Get ready to shake and feel your legs burn!
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Flexibility. Each class ends with a great stretch. Some stretches happen in between sets of workouts, helping you get that lean and long.
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It’s fun! The music is blasting, the teachers have great energy and you get to workout in a room full of motivating ladies.
My barre gear: Beyond Yoga leggings, Puma socks, Soybu tank.
One of my favorite studios in the city and the burbs is The Barre Code. My favorite classes to take are the original Barre Code class and the yoga-inspired Baryasa. My home studio is The Barre Code in Park Ridge!
This month, they’ve been hosting their annual Spring It On 21-day fitness challenge. They’ve amped it up this year with a number of national partnerships: WTRMLN WTR and Lukka Lux to name a few. Complete 18 classes in 21 days for the chance to win amazing local and national prizes!
They’re also sharing easy at-home workouts you can do anytime on their Facebook page. One example is their “Juice Up Jumps.” Just reach your arms as long as you can overhead and take two tiny hops and then one B I G tuck jump! Work to fatigue and repeat as many times as you’d like for an amazing core burn and cardio blast.
Image courtesy of The Barre Code Park Ridge
Follow along on social media by searching “#SpringItOn2016” for a behind the scenes look at all the in-studio fun, motivating affirmations and Spring It On-inspired fitness moves.
Have you tried barre yet? Are you taking the Challenge? Let me know in the comments below. XO
FTC disclosure: This post is written in partnership with The Barre Code studio in Park Ridge. All opinions are 100% my own.
