So you want to try a barre class? Good for you! Barre classes are generally a mixture of ballet, pilates and yoga. I teach bootybarre which is an amazing total body workout that includes both a strengthening and a cardio component. There are all types of barre methods, but no matter what type of barre class you are taking, the following tips will be helpful to you
Expect to Hear Ballet Terms
You will hear words like plie, releve and tendu. Don’t let these words scare you. Your instructor will demonstrate how to perform each exercise. The fact that you haven’t had any ballet experience will not hinder your performance in class.
Assume All Cues Apply to You
Throughout the class the instructor will be giving you verbal cues as to how you should be performing each exercise. These cues help clients keep their bodies in proper alignment. Assume all of the comments are directed at you. Of course, they aren’t, but it’s a good self check. If the instructor says, “lengthen the space between your ears and shoulders,” take a moment to check yourself to see if your shoulders have crept up to your ears. A lot of times, even if we start in the proper position, as we become fatigued, we fall into old habits. If you assume everything the instructor says is targeted at you, you will always find yourself in good form.
Be Aware of Your Body
Really think about your body and the movement you are doing. For instance, if you are doing a simple kick, a lot of times clients focus only on the leg that is doing the kicking. However, you also need to think about your abs, your arms, and most importantly, your posture. Your instructor will give you the cues, but it’s up to you to be aware of all parts of your body. Use the mirror to see if you match the instructor’s movement.
Ask Questions After Class
Instructors want clients to feel comfortable with them and with the exercises. They want you to return to class and have an enjoyable experience. If there was a certain exercise that you just couldn’t seem to figure out, please ask. Or if you are unsure on your form, have the instructor guide you. There is no need to be shy. Instructors want their clients to be doing exercises correctly and are more than willing to help.
Give the Class More Than One Try
Your first class will be fun, but you have a lot to learn; new terminology, new movements, a new instructor’s style. It can be a bit overwhelming, but if you return to class a second and a third time, you’ll see a structure emerge. The structure will begin to become routine and you’ll know what to expect in each section and you’ll feel more comfortable.
Barre classes are a great way to improve posture, strength and balance! Most barre classes move quickly along from section to section so that you won’t even notice that an hour has passed. I definitely encourage you to try it out!
Diane Does It! 