Barre Body Fitness Program

Thinking about trying the newest trend in exercise but still unsure of what it's all about? Here's a quick run down:

Most barre-based classes use a combination of postures inspired by ballet and other disciplines like yoga and Pilates. The barre is used as a prop to balance while doing exercises that focus on isometric strength training (holding your body still while you contract a specific set of muscles) combined with high reps of small range-of-motion movements. Also, don't be surprised if your class incorporates light handheld weights to bring the burn during all those reps, as well as mats for targeted core work. and yoga inspired stretching.

Many of us discovered that we crave smaller and more connected classes. We needed a place where we could balance our bodies and get prepared for or unwind from our busy and stressful days. Women see results quickly with barre, it's a one-stop shop that includes all the essentials of a well-rounded exercise program, plus it's perfect for women who are short on time. That's a workout women will always need!

The major benefits of barre are improved posture, muscle definition, weight loss, increased flexibility and reduced stress. Plus, women at any fitness level can sign up for a class: Although important to discuss with your doctor, barre classes can be perfectly fine for pregnant women because they're not high impact. They may even help with imbalance (a common issue during pregnancy due to that growing belly) and stability.

You'll start with a warm up, followed the use of the ballet barre and your own body weight for resistance to focus on the thigh and seat muscles. Your core will be engaged the entire class and then targeted at the end. An inflated mini exercise ball will assist in targeting the inner thighs, followed by a combination of upper-body exercises, which include free weights, push-ups, planks and other moves to target the biceps, triceps, chest, and back muscles. For the cool down, you'll go through a series of stretches to increase flexibility and allow your muscles to recover. Classes are 60 minutes and are done to the tunes of upbeat music.

Still not sure? Come try a class! Merrimack Recreation Department offers Barre Body classes on Saturday mornings 9:00am in the Function Hall at Wasserman Park. The next session will be starting on Saturday, February 25th.

For more information log onto https://merrimack.recdesk.com/...