When I find a workout I love...I'm going to share it with all of you! So, I'd like to introduce you to my newest find... barre3.
I am the first to admit I am not a Crossfit kind of girl. When I first got involved in the Paleo community, I found out that Crossfit and Paleo tend to go hand in hand. With Crossfit gyms popping up on every corner, it's hard to ignore. I love the Paleo lifestyle. Crossfit just isn't my thing....& that's okay with me.
I think exercise should be enjoyable. It's just a matter of finding that "thing" that works for you. I've always enjoyed working out on my own, on my own time. I enjoy hiking, stand up paddling, tennis and getting outside in nature. For me, I just like to move my body. It's probably the introvert in me that makes me anxious in group classes.
I've tried many different things over the years and what I know for sure is...If it's not enjoyable in some way, it won't last. My favorite workouts have always been DVD's. They just work for me and I'm self motivated to do them at home. I also like to change it up every once in a while so as not to get bored. It's motivating to find a new workout to get excited about! Recently, someone in my wonderful Instagram community told me about barre3. I checked it out, it clicked, and have been doing these workouts ever since...THIS is the kind of workout I've been looking for!
So what is barre3? Here's what they have to say....
Balance, strengthen, and lengthen the body with moves inspired by ballet, yoga, and Pilates...
Our workouts are designed to transform the body to one of equal balance, strength and flexibility.
Many think that the "3" in the name comes from the combination of ballet, yoga, and Pilates...but it actually has more to do with "balance", as they explain here....
Our signature 3-step sequence delivers a balanced, total-body workout that you can do anytime, anywhere. All movements are low-impact and designed to burn fat, build muscle and break through plateaus.
1. Isometric holds work your muscles to their deepest point and increase strength and endurance. Holding still strengthens your muscles continuously; it also gives you time to make sure your alignment and posture are perfect before you move.
2. Next, we add controlled 1-inch movements. These create just enough relief in the muscles to maintain the integrity of the hold for maximum benefit. By layering on one inch, you heat the body, increase your core strength, and rev your metabolism.
3. After completely taxing the muscles, we flush out the body with functional, large, dynamic moves. This cardio blast lifts the heart rate, improves circulation, and energizes the body.
A Workout That Works for Everyone
Anyone can do this low-impact sequence and see dramatic results. It doesn’t matter if you’re 20 or 75, if you’re a turbo athlete or you haven’t worked out in years, if you have back pain or a knee injury, if you’re pregnant or just had a baby. No matter who you are, barre3 will help you lose weight, build strength, and transform your entire body.
Sadie Lincoln, barre3 founder, works closely with a team of experts including yogis, professional dancers, doctors, and athletes to craft highly efficient workouts. Focusing on a unique combination of dynamic movement and isometric holds, the sequences work strategically to transform the body and develop long term postural benefits.
There are two ways you can do barre3 workouts. You can attend classes if there is a barre3 studio near you. I don't happen to have any studios near me, so I do the online workouts at home and am loving them! This is what the online workouts offer....
There are hundreds of videos online ranging from 10 minutes to 60 minutes, so you can always get your workout in even if you're short on time. You can also download their app on your phone to get your workouts in on the go! They've thought of everything to cover all those excuses you can come up with! They have workouts that use minimal props like the ball (which deflates for travel) and a resistance band, but they aren't mandatory. Each workout lists what props are used in that workout, so you know before you start. I find that they intensify the workouts and I really like using them. Most workouts also use a yoga mat. I'm also a sucker for cute accessories and I love that this company has style! Their shirts are actually stylish...LOVE that. I love my Trucker Hat pictured above. As soon as I saw it I had to have it.
These workouts may not look intense, but they are. They work your muscles to fatigue and that's when the magic happens. They call them "quakes" when your body starts to literally shake from going to failure. They also always show you modifications from easier to harder depending on your level and ability.
I'm also enjoying the barre3 blog. They talk about a healthy lifestyle, how barre3 is a great pre and post pregnancy workout, and recipes and nutrition...they even have wonderful "mocktail" recipes! (You know how I love a good mocktail!) ;)
My body type responds well to this type of workout. I have my mom to thank for that. My mom was a ballerina and even though I am no ballerina, it is helping me build strength while keeping me long and lean. Even if you've never tried something like this before, try something new...you might enjoy it!
I've been just choosing different workouts online for now....but they have different programs and challenges if you are someone who needs more guidance. They offer "28 to Great", "10 to Go" and "7 Day Body Blast". They also offer DVD packages for home use.
For more information about subscription information and classes, visit barre3.com. Between this and getting outdoors, it's all about keeping my body moving, happy & healthy! Enjoy!
-italics are taken from the barre3 website.
