Page 27 - Best Chapter Spring 2017
P. 27

Step Up to the B arre
Don’t worry that you are not a ballerina. Don’t be , — »
intimidated by French words like plié and relevé. Don’t f ‘K ‘  J 
let age hold you back. If you appreciate a good workout, _, A .' J W E A
chances are you will enjoy a barre fitness class. F. _ 1-’
Technically speaking, a barre is the waist-level stationary  ‘V _
handrail that is used in ballet training. However, in a barre .  F 
class, using the barre is just part of the workout regimen. , ‘V 3
Barre fitness is a workout that combines ballet, yoga and ’ — V ‘_ P 
Pilates to develop long, lean, toned muscle. A barre class ,‘ t ‘E " .'
uses small, controlled movements, not to create bulky “
muscles, but to engage and strengthen the muscles in the
body’s core.
The barre itself is a prop to be used for balance while doing _ if  _.' . .; 
exercises during a class. However, it is not the only prop  ‘ _
used in a barre class. Resistance bands, used while at the I \ _ I _ J
barre and on the mat, can strengthen muscles in the legs, ,3... ' f ,' I I '
arms and back. Small balls can help with stability and ~ f$
strengthening. Even light weights can be added to the «£:§:a. 3 .. » ,
routine. In many barre classes, the workout moves from the I ‘ ‘ . “
barre to the mat, where participants can do core work, like . _, - I
planks and leg lifts.    I9 
_ , __.4-3 ;
Elizabeth Brewer, owner of Mind Body Movement, prefers   " f  -5-
to keep her classes small so that she can tailor each class to "5"" ' "“" 
the needs of her clients. She assists them in developing and
refining the movements, while helping those who may have
pre-existing injuries or limitations as well. The workout is
most effective when the proper alignment and engagement I I I I I
is applied and the correct movements are made. I I
Barre appeals to and is appropriate for a wide range of I I
people. It is currently a popular trend among 20 and I I
30-year olds, but it’s a great workout for any age group. I I
Barre helps with balance, which people lose as they age.  B M _
Even people with certain injuries, including back issues, md My m mum"
can partake in this workout. A barre class is often a great
supplemental workout for runners and athletes because the
stretching helps to increase flexibility. Mind Body Movement
513.403.4068
mindboo|yfifu@gmoi|.com
Mind-BoclyMovement.com


























































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