For toning, strength and increased flexibility, you can’t beat a barre class – and with fans ranging from Millie Mackintosh to Jourdan Dunn, the ballet-based workout seems to be the latest craze. Xtend Barre are leading the way on London’s fitness scene by getting us to channel our inner prima ballerinas. I decided to join as a member around 5 months ago, and I have become addicted to this new way of working out!
The concept – inspired by the barre exercises that give ballerinas their enviably strong and toned physiques, the classic barre workout focuses on isometric movements – small, pulsing motions repeated at intervals – to increase flexibility, strength and build lean muscle. Many of the moves are taken from yoga and pilates and also incorporate classic free weight and body weight exercises.
The classes – a ballet-pilates hybrid may sound like a graceful way to spend an hour, but don’t be fooled. This is a tough workout that will have you shaking as you work muscles you didn’t even know you had! Expect to do single leg squats, on your tip-toes, while balancing a small ball between your knees, and possibly bicep curling a 1, 2 or 5 lb hand weight. Yep – it’s tough! You’ll do planks and press-ups alongside thigh, glute and endless ab work.
The people – the classes can be tailored to total newbies, but pilates-fanatics and those who spent their childhood in pointe shoes will equally not be disappointed. The classes can also be adapted for pre and post-natal and there are plenty of variations of the class so you don’t get bored – they offer barre, circuit, stretch, sculpt and even TRX classes. As well as the various classes, there are various instructors – all of which are unbelievable! They really push you to get the most out of your workout and have such enthusiasm in each and every class.
The why – those looking to shake-up their fitness regime or anyone wanting to tone up in a short amount of time is the reason why you should give it a go. If you did four classes per week for a month, you’ll see a dramatic change in the shape of your body. At around £25 per class (cheaper if you subscribe on a monthly basis) this is definitely an investment, but I believe you would definitely see the benefits of just one class per week alongside a regular running, spinning and yoga workout.
The calories – while the classes aren’t cardio-centric, the intensity of the exercises is enough to get your heart rate seriously going. Expect to burn around 300 calories per hourly session and the deep muscle work will have you burning calories as you rest and recover during the rest of the day. In short, a barre session will boost your metabolism like any other resistance workout, making this a sure-fire way to get lean, long and toned!
Check out their Instagram or head to their website if you fancy giving it a go!
Olivia x