Raising the "Barre"

Okay sitting down to write this blog post took effort!  Why?  I just finished the new class at Excel by Jaymie called "Barre".  To put it bluntly ~ that was probably one of the most challenging and intense classes I have done.  I love high intensity classes and strength training but they are extremely challenging in a different way.  Barre is intense as in your legs start "shaking" as you go thru the series of exercises.  There is a precise focus that takes place.  Feeling muscles in areas you never knew where there.  IT WAS AMAZING and I AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE ACCESS TO IT NOW!!

A little while ago I connected with Jaymie to find out more about this area of fitness that I had never heard of until recently.  

Jaymie hard at work!

Here is her interview:

1.  What is Barre(fitness)?

"Barre is a full body workout concentrating on targeting the hips, thighs, seat, abdominals & arms.  It is a low impact workout, protecting the joints.  Through small isometric movements & utilizing the Barre, you are taken through a series of movements which target & tone certain areas of your body.  You work to 'shake' meaning your muscles are reaching the point of fatigue-this is your goal to work towards for each muscle group.  After, you stretch to elongate the muscles while they are warm.  It is through these small isometric movements & working your body to 'shake' while listening to upbeat music you create long lean muscles without the bulk."

2.  How and when did you get involved in Barre?

"I started taking Barre classes about 5 years ago (2010) while living down south in Nashville, TN.  Once I started taking Barre classes I couldn't stop as it was within 10 classes I noticed a change in my body.  As an avid Barre 'goer' I was given an opportunity to teach, which unfortunately I couldn't because I didn't have a green card, but I continued my practice knowing that one day an opportunity might come my way where I could teach back home in B.C.  I was fortunate enough to be exposed to many great teachers as I continued going to Barre throughout the Southern States as my finacee & I moved around while he pursued his NHL career.  Not only does Barre provide me with physical benefits, it has been great for my mind, as you have to clear your mind of needless thoughts in order to stay in your practice."  

3.  What can I expect to do in a class?  Is it an overall body workout or focused on certain areas?

"Barre is a full body workout concentrated on targeting the hips, thighs, seat, abdominals & arms.  Each strength section is followed by a stretch in order to create long, lean muscles without adding the bulk.  The class requires a lot of concentration, creating mental benefits similarly obtained by yoga.  The Barre is utilized for a portion of the class & other work is done on yoga mats.  Yoga blocks, bands & balls are used to work deeper into positions & are or can be used throughout the class."

4.  What fitness level is Barre typically for?

"Classes are the same level so it accommodates people of all fitness levels.  The position & movements are basic, it's how deep you work in them that make the difference."

5.  What should I wear?

"Comfortable workout attire like yoga capris/pants...nothing too baggy as it can get in the way of movement. The class is completed in bare feet or in Barre socks, which I also sell."

What she says is so true about benefiting both the body and also the MIND.  You are so focused on the small movements that nothing else makes its way into your mind.  It is so refreshing!  Amazing new fitness class at Excel paired with an amazing instructor equals happiness!  Thank you for sharing your passion with us Jaymie!

Class in Action!