Eight Benefits of Barre
Growing up as a ballet dancer, I spent hours each day training at the barre. It wasn't until my early twenties that I discovered and fell in love with the barre fitness method. I found the classes super challenging yet fun, and the technique supported my dance training and performing as cross-training.
Barre is a low-impact fitness technique that blends elements of dance, Pilates, yoga, and strength training. It strengthens, tones, and lengthens the muscles. Initially created for physiotherapy for injured dancers, it is a technique suitable and safe for all levels, ages, and abilities. As an instructor for over 12 years, I can honestly say that it is the most effective fitness technique I have encountered. There are numerous benefits to the class and method; here are eight of the most significant ones.
1- Rehabs after injuries and prevents further injuries
The class can be modified based on any injuries, with many of the moves recommended by a physiotherapist. Often, clients come to barre after being injured and realise it is a technique that has longevity and prevents further injuries.
2- Appropriate for pre-during-post pregnancy
Because everything can be modified, pregnant women can still participate in most of the class. If there is a section that might not be appropriate, they can substitute it for something else. It is a great way to keep the body strong and help reduce stress and anxiety. I taught and took barre through both of my pregnancies, and we have pregnant women in almost every class. Post-delivery, once they have clearance from their doctor, women can take the class at their own pace and modify it as needed. It is also a nice hour break from your day, helping with emotional health as well.
3- “One stop shop” for cardio, strength training, stretching
Many people lack the time or desire to work out all day long, so the barre technique encompasses each element of fitness in one efficient hour. You are strength training, in a high-energy cardio way, ending with time to stretch and lengthen the muscles after working them so hard. It is the best classwork for busy moms and working women, knowing that your fitness needs are covered in under an hour.
4- Creates long lean muscles, revving up your metabolism
The barre technique works the muscles by lengthening them, and we always take the time to stretch after working them intensely. Muscles burn calories/fat, so when you have more lean muscle on your body, you can burn calories more efficiently, and although you are muscular, you are still lean and feminine—like a dancer.
5- Helps with coordination and balance
The class is set to music, forcing you to focus on the beat and try to stay in rhythm. The movements are often compound, utilising different muscle groups simultaneously, which works on your coordination and mental focus. Many moves are balanced on one leg, which challenges your balance while also strengthening your stabilising muscles, increasing bone density, and preventing injury.
6- Every class is different, so it doesn’t get boring
The structure and the moves are not set, so you never feel bored or like you are getting into a repetitive cycle. This forces you to focus more during class, as you're unsure what's coming next. This allows you to work more efficiently and truly take the hour as a mental break from your day. Before you know it, class is over, and you have worked every muscle in the body!
7- You can never “conquer” it; it continues to challenge you
There are endless combinations of moves and exercises, so it always keeps you guessing and on your toes. Because every class is different and will then work the muscles in a different way and order, you can never feel like it is easy or that you have plateaued. This might be frustrating for some people, but most clients find it motivational to keep going and see what their body can achieve.
8- Barre is a whole body, works every muscle in the body in an efficient way
Every class works every muscle, so you leave feeling balanced and accomplished. You don’t need to take any other classes or do any other exercise; if you are living a healthy lifestyle, Barre can be your only form of exercise to keep your entire body strong and toned.