As someone who has never been much of a gym person (and more of a long distance runner), I have a profound appreciation for this new barre studio, located conveniently just half a block from where I live.
I purchased an unlimited month+ promo and made an effort to go every day that I could, averaging five days per week.
I have seen an incredible difference in my strength and tone. My arms are much more defined, my abdominal muscles more visible, and my legs legitimately more toned. I'm not sure I believed barre would work at the beginning (and initially was a little exasperated by how my muscles, especially my thighs, seemed to swell and get bigger) but now I can definitely see the difference-- and my clothes fit better. Now, when I run, not only do I run faster, but I also have much better posture. Even outside of exercising, I have much better posture (is it weird to be told that I look taller?).
I am amazed by how little movements can make a significant difference. I am impressed by how, despite having gone to over 25 classes now, I have something to learn each class. Even when I think I have all the moves down, the instructor will make one small adjustment to my posture or have me tuck my abs in and suddenly the movement seems harder and BETTER. I learned that what can seem like an easy move can become very difficult when I realize that I didn't even know I was doing it wrong. The instructors are so good at helping with that.
Speaking of instructors, they are all great, sweet, and motivational. While each class has its general sequence, each instructor incorporates her own style and so it never gets boring.
Aside from the physical and probably more vain things, Simply Barre is great for just a quick 50 minutes to take for yourself. It's a workout that makes you feel good. It's not as meditative as yoga, but the music is upbeat (and also varies based on the instructor, which I love), and the collective struggle is pretty fun.
I am about to finish my unlimited promotional 6-weeks, and I already purchased another set of classes. Even if I am only able to make the class two or three times a week (which is my goal from now on), this is something I hope to continue to incorporate into my life and recommend that others do the same. read more