barre class

 

It goes without saying that you can’t get the butt you want by just sitting on it. We think that barre methods are great for general fitness – and as another fun variation in the in:spa programme – and (rather like Pilates) emphasises training the seat, which is the base of the powerhouse in a healthy body. So, last year, we sent one of our personal trainers – Malcolm Coombes – off to learn all about it and to qualify as a barre class teacher. He’s been running these classes on our in:spa retreats ever since and guests love them!

What’s it all about?

Barre workouts are great for toning, alignment and posture. Each class provides a cardio element in addition to a strength and stretch element. With the cardio element you will get the aerobic conditioning that’s good for improving metabolism and for weight loss, whilst the ballet inspired moves will strengthen and tone your body.

Core work is essential in barre methods; Pilates inspired moves that work the body from the inside out. One of Malcom’s barre classes will contain every element of fitness any person needs providing they are healthy and able to move.

The Benefits of Barre

Weight loss: the barre targets the largest muscle groups in the body (like the thighs and gluteus)- the larger the muscle, the more calories burned! As you continue to attend classes, you will begin to build more lean muscle mass, raising your metabolic rate, which can help you produce more energy and burn more calories. Pair the barre exercise routine with a healthy in:spa diet – and all the other exercise you will enjoy on an in:spa retreat, including hiking, yoga and circuit training – and you will absolutely see the results. Find out more about the tried and tested in:spa programme.

Cellulite reduction: aerobic activity is a key factor in getting rid of orange peel skin! Barre exercises are fat blasting; it focuses on the lower body and designed to help you drop pounds. If you want to fit into your skinny jeans, have killer legs and a great looking butt, or you just want to go from a good shape to a better one, barre classes are for you!

Increased bone health: the isometric movements in the barre method protect your bone health; weight-bearing exercises are vital to overcome any bone density issues.

Core strength and improved posture: Besides reducing your waistline and improving posture, a strong core is achieved through the Pilates based abdominal work and floor barre exercises. A strong core can increase your performance in all other activities in your life, whether you’re playing tennis or just lifting your kids. Without a strong core, your muscles cannot move freely or efficiently, so you will tend to overuse your lower back muscles and put additional stress on other joints which, in turn, commonly leads to aches, pains and injuries.

The beauty of the barre is that we emphasise engaging your core throughout all of the class for compounded results – so even if we are working the arms or thighs, we are always engaging, and therefore strengthening, the core as well.

Flexibility: Ballet stretches are a major part of the session done at the end of each interval, the muscles are elongated, bulk is reduced and therefore balance and alignment are achieved.