Pure [BARRE] Obsession
Over the last 10 years I have tried many different exercise options. From weight lifting to running. HIIT classes to Hot Yoga. I have tried it all. When it comes down to it, I love working out, period. However, I enjoy changing things up. The 3 wing that I am on the Ennegram demands I set and achieve goals, and my fitness routine is no different.
In high school I ran track for one season, I hated it, but couldn’t allow myself to quit. In college I cheered for a year until my concussion caught up with me and I was no longer able to be medically cleared. After college I dabbled in the fitness world and competed in a couple figure comps. The training was addictive, but the diet was too much.
Over the past couple of years I even got into running. I’ve run two half marathons, and after my most recent surgery I mistakenly signed up for another. One day, maybe, I think I would like to try my hand at a full, but I don’t know if I’m that crazy.
I’ve even jumped on the Beach Body train, and for those of you with crazy schedules I think BB is a great option!
Most recently though, I have really fallen in love with barre class. Before I left Nashville a few years ago, I took classes at the new Pure Barre studio in town, but I moved to Boston shortly after and there were no studios within a reasonable distance. I did find a pilates studio down the street that offered barre, but the studio moved and it became too much to fight Boston traffic to continue my classes.
Alas, moving to Montgomery placed me within walking distance of a Pure Barre studio, and my life has become complete again.
If you have never heard of barre, you’re in for quite the treat. Barre is an exercise class based on the principals and movements of ballet. Fun Fact: pound for pound ballerinas are some of the strongest athletes in the world. It’s true!
Barre classes are around 45-60 minutes, depending on the studio, and begin with a warmup and flows from upper body, thigh, booty, and ab work with stretching in-between. The movements utilized in class are very small and concentrated. The main focus is on form and endurance and the ballet barre is used for balance and stability. You wouldn’t think moving up and down and inch would be that big of a deal, but that barre is really important when your legs start shaking and you still have 20 seconds to go. I’m telling you, it’s not easy.
Honestly, I am never more amazed than when completing the upper body portion of class and those 2lb weights feel more like 25lbs. It’s a humbling experience.
I am a Pure Barre fanatic, and I have taken other franchise options, I just really prefer Pure Barre. The music is always so upbeat and amazing and the class options keep things interesting. The PB Classic follows the standard flow I mentioned earlier, and includes the use of hand weights, and loop band, and even a ball. There are also Empower and Reformer class options. Empower uses hand and wrist/ankle weights, as well as a step for a more cardio centered approach. Those classes are between 40 and 45 minutes since they are a bit more intense. Reformer classes are the hardest, in my opinion, and involve four resistance bands and sliders. It’s just hard, really really hard. That is all.
I go to barre class 5-7 days a week, usually the 5:30am session. It’s a great way to get the day started, and having a class is a way to keep myself accountable. Plus, the morning girls are pretty awesome.
My instructors at the location, as well as any other PB location I have taken at, are literally those most amazing women I have ever met. They push you so hard, but remind you that you’re stronger than you think. Some of the best instructors are the sweetest looking, Tiffany Bell you know who are, but they literally kick butt! The instructors make the class, and regardless of the fitness classes you take, always try and find an instructor that motivates you and makes you feel important. That is one of the best fitness tips I can offer!
I know everyone wants to know about cost, but remember, you always need to compare the benefits when looking at a monetary cost. For me, I prioritize a class setting, having multiple classes a day, and a variety of class types, and of course the quality of content and instructors. Those types of things usually come with a higher cost than a traditional gym membership, but for some, like myself, it’s a priority. I have unlimited monthly classes for $150/month, which comes out to about $7.50/class. Personally, I think that’s very reasonable, so it works for me.
Sometimes I miss lifting heavy and walking on the treadmill for my cardio, but I love how close my studio is, the relationships I’m creating, and the goals I’m working towards. I’m really focused on hitting my first 100 class milestone (I have like 30 to go), and I would love to master the ab portion and focus on staying strong for the ENTIRE 90 minute plank series. It’s seriously a challenge.
I know you may laugh at taking a class that utilizes 2lb weights, but seriously, if you’re looking to shake up your fitness routine, it’s a great option. It’s low impact and seriously a great way to get your butt kicked. Everyone I have ever taken to class with me has loved how tough it is, and really enjoyed themselves. I’m even planning on doing a class for my bachelorette party!
If you’re curious, definitely look for a studio in your area and give it at try! Most studios, Pure Barre or not, offer a free first time class, and if you haven’t given it a shot, you should!
Get ready to LIFT, TONE, AND BURN! Oh, and SHAKE. You will definitely shake.
Love,
Lilly
