This studio is for so much more than just Barre classes! I first tried the studio after doing pilates for a couple years, and realizing I needed to move my body in more ways to really challenge it and create balance. I wandered into a Corrective Clinic (held in the Barre studio) with Christina. The name of the class can sound daunting, but don't be afraid. I wish I could recommend it a million times over!
Christina helped me locate the imbalances in my body, but rather than just avoiding those weak/hurt areas, we worked to strengthen and align my joints. For example, like so many other people, I have "bad" knees. Because of that, I just avoided excessive movements with my knees -- I literally hadn't squatted, lunged, or jumped in years. After working with Christina in her class for about two months (I'd say I went about 2x a week), the improvement in my mobility and stability was UNREAL. I can't even express my gratitude. I can now squat, lunge....and even do single legged lifts and single leg squats on a bosu ball! I didn't even imagine that sort of progress was possible. Like so many others, I thought bum knees (and I also have bad feet and bad wrists -- the total package) would just be my way of life. I never imagined I could work my way back to doing the things I'd given up long ago. It has influenced my entire life. I can hike, jump around, ski, etc.
To give you an idea of what the Corrective classes are: it's sort of like physical therapy meets strength training. You'll start with what your body can handle, and then target those imbalances through creative methods. We used bands, balls, benches, and sometimes small weights. There's also targeted stretching and rolling out (foam rolling) to relax overactive muscles, etc. Corrective training is the perfect compliment to an already active lifestyle. (I love doing it along with my pilates, cardio, and yoga.) It's also great if you're recovering from an injury. Oh, and she's a magician with those of us who sit down all day at work! Her knowledge of how to correct that bent posture, and stiff bent leg is amazing. Taking the Corrective classes has even helped alleviate my acute hand/wrist problems. I was in so much pain when I first took classes with Christina, that I couldn't sleep at night. I can now work with less pain (I'm a jeweler), and can even hold weights like I hadn't been able to.
I don't write many reviews, but I felt compelled to write about the Corrective classes. They truly changed my life, my work, and my body. I just want to spread the word. I had no idea classes like this even existed before stumbling into hers. In fact, this might be the only class like it in Denver or in Colorado -- you're missing out if you don't try one!
Longest review ever...but I can't stop there. I've also taken classes with Amanda and Marie (both are amazing, kind, and lovely!). I love every class I've tried at Whole Body. Class sizes are tiny (sometimes just one or two people, which is an insane deal). And the instructors are incredibly knowledgeable. These aren't just teachers who took a random course and then woke up one day and decided to teach. Their knowledge is extensive, and most have degrees and certifications beyond the scope of most instructors out there. I've tried so many studios in Denver; none rival the expertise and kindness of the teachers at Whole Body. read more
