Barre workouts are the low-impact powerhouse you didn’t know you needed. They’re graceful but challenging, gentle on your joints yet tough on your muscles, and perfect whether you’re brand-new to fitness or tired of high-impact routines.
What Is a Barre Workout and What Are the Benefits?
Inspired by a combination of yoga, pilates and ballet, barre is a low-impact, high-intensity total body workout. Inspired by the grace of dance but built for anybody, it has many benefits for overall health — and yes, you’ll probably discover muscles you didn’t even know existed.
1. It’s Low-Impact and High Burn
Barre workouts can be an excellent choice if you have arthritis or joint problems. They help you develop stronger muscles that enhance your joints’ support and reduce discomfort. They’re also a go-to for anyone looking to avoid high-impact exercises like running or jumping.
Yet, low impact does not mean low intensity. Barre still provides a high-intensity full-body workout. Get ready to feel the burn as you pulse, tuck and stretch through every exercise. Your muscles will be shaking, but your knees? They’ll be just fine.
2. You Can Get Strong Without the Bulk
Want lean, sculpted muscles without looking like you’re training for a powerlifting meet? Barre is your best friend. The tiny, isometric movements target small stabilizing muscles often overlooked in traditional strength workouts.
Barre workout sessions combine cardio, strength training, flexibility, balance and core conditioning to create a comprehensive workout focusing on the hips, glutes, abdominal muscles and arms.
3. It’s a Secret Weapon for Bone Health
You might be surprised to hear this, but barre workouts are great for improving bone density because they incorporate both strength training and weight-bearing exercises. Maintaining strong bones as you grow older is especially important. People over 65 who are physically active are less likely to be injured than those who are not. Those tiny pulses do more than make your legs shake.
4. It Helps You Improve Posture
Long hours of sitting can cause you to feel slouched or slumped over. Barre exercises focus on strengthening your chest, hips, shoulders and back to support a stronger posture and muscle toning.
5. Anyone Can Barre
Even though it’s named after the fixed handrail used in ballet, you don’t need to be a prima ballerina to take part. Whether you’re a retired dancer or someone who’s never pointed a toe in their life, barre is accessible.
Most classes offer modifications, and instructors are there to help you focus on form and ensure everyone is getting the proper workout while preventing any injury.
6. It’s a Total Mood Booster
Ever notice how moving your body can shift your mindset? In fact, it improves depressive symptoms and overall mood in people of all ages. Focusing on specific muscle groups and practicing form and techniques strengthens the mind-body connection. Over time, your stamina, endurance and mental fortitude can also improve.
7. You Can Do It Almost Anywhere
Barre is one of the most accessible workouts to do from home. A chair, a yoga mat and some optional light weights are all you need to get started. Countless online classes range from beginner to advanced, so you can build your strength and confidence at your own pace.
8. You’ll Find a Community Built on Strength and Support
Barre is about the workout, but it’s also about the people beside you pulsing through the burn, shaking with every hold and cheering each other on. Whether in a studio or streaming from home, there’s a strong sense of connection in the barre world. These classes are an opportunity to connect with others who can help motivate you.
Your Barre Journey Starts Now!
Barre is a workout that adapts to your individual needs. Whether you’re just starting out, recovering from an injury or seeking a fun yet challenging routine, barre has got you covered. It’s easy on the joints, produces impressive results and is suitable for everyone — regardless of your flexibility.
No Replies to "Why Barre Workouts Are the Perfect Low-Impact Exercise"