Why Yoga Barre? What IS it exactly?

I've had several people ask what IS Barre, exactly? 

Barre is the perfect blend of Pilates and ballet flow, with a dash of yoga. You don't have to be flexible to start. You don't even have to be coordinated! Whether you're looking to gain long, lean muscle, improve flexibility, or lose weight, it is an all-around great cardio experience.

Using small isolated movements, the exercise lengthens and tones major muscle groups. There are a few props used during any given class- 2-3lb weights, a playground ball, and a resistance band. "Problem areas" are targeted, and you can expect to see visible results within just a few classes. And believe me, you WILL be sore for at least 2 days after your first class 

What I love about Barre is that it can be modified for anybody and any body type, and you don't technically even need a ballet barre to do it. You can use a chair of the back of a couch, so developing a home practice is really quite simple! Just devote those 3 minute commercial breaks between reruns of Modern Family to lift and tone your muscles!


So why Yoga Barre?

I started going to a Pure Barre studio before I even became interested in yoga. It was actually because of my classes at Pure Barre and the yoga postures incorporated at the beginning and end of class, that got me interested in attending my very first yoga class. I started practicing at home first, because I felt that if I was to sign up for any classes at The Yoga House, I should at least be able to touch my toes and stand in Warrior II without falling on my face. Ahh, it was my ego talking! Since developing a steady practice (unless I'm injured, I try to devote a little time each day at home if I don't go to a local class), I have had a deep desire to teach. But not just yoga. I want to teach Barre classes too. So why not do both?

I found a teacher certification being held at a nearby gym and signed up immediately!

Being able to share this FUN and energetic class with other people is absolute joy. I'm looking forward to this summer, when I will begin my 5 month long yoga teacher training.
I. Can't. Wait.
How yogic of me :-) Maybe, just maybe, I'll learn to be more patient!


Have you ever been to a Barre class? Tell me about it!
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12076625/?claim=gt8f6sqd89p">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>