Everyone has (or should have) a form of exercise they prefer. If it’s something you like, and something you look forward to, then it’s fun and not just something you have to do to be healthy. Mine is barre, which is essentially a combination of ballet and Pilates.
My Introduction to Barre
I was a dancer for about seven or eight years, in a variety of styles, but ballet was always my favorite. I loved the preciseness, the artistry, its form of storytelling, its beauty. Barre is an excellent way to use that part of my brain and the movements my body is familiar with, while also mixing in a little Pilates. Pilates I’m relatively new to, and have only a small amount of experience with, but barre I’ve been actively participating in since late 2021/early 2022.
What to Expect from Barre
Barre is a very low-impact form of exercise for both the upper and lower body. There are cardio elements that get your heart beat up, but a lot of it is focused on balance, strengthening, toning, and isometric-style exercises using hand and ankle weights. How much ballet influence there is may depend on the instructor, but I personally like a large ballet influence since that’s where my background is.
My Recommendations
I highly recommend this type of group fitness environment (or even on your own) and recommend using the Vegan Suede Yoga Mat from POPFLEX, created by Blogilates (a.k.a Cassey Ho). After not having my own mat since the beginning, I caved and bought one last Thanksgiving while it was on sale. My sweaty hands always slip on other gym mats and this one, from the very first time I used it, made sure I stayed put while in Downward Dog no matter what. If this is you while doing any form of exercise, I highly recommend investing in one of these mats.
Get Started With These YouTube Channels
My favorite (free) barre and barre-style workouts are from the YouTube channels Barre With Andrea (if the link is broken just search “Andrea Robertson Barre” into the search bar) and Action Jacquelyn (she’s my top favorite). Try it out for yourself!
