As I mentioned in my first post this year, I wanted to mix up my fitness plan. I'm the kind of person who gets bored if I do the same work out every day, which is why I already did a mix of weights, indoor cardio machines, HIIT workouts, and "fun" stuff like running with my dog.
I've always wanted to try out Pure Barre, but in the past I have made lots of excuses like "it's too expensive," "I'm doing fine without it," or "it probably doesn't even work." However, we are in crunch time! Come the middle of January, I was only 4 months away from my wedding, and more urgently, 5 weeks away from my first dress fitting. After talking to a few co-workers (and convincing them to sign up with me), I enrolled in a 30 day trial period at Pure Barre.
On my first day I wasn't sure what to expect. I arrived at the studio early with some cool new sticky socks I had ordered on Amazon. I was greeted by my friends and realized I quickly missed the memo that Lulu Lemon was required to take Barre class. I met Risa who would be my instructor, and she explained to me that I would have no idea what was going on, but to do my best to stick with it. (Side note: to this day Risa remains one of my favorite teachers. Her combination of a killer workout and amazing tunes cannot be beat.) A little arrogantly, I must admit, I thought, "How bad can this be? I mean...I work out 6 times a week.." Little did I know that Risa was about to kick my ass...
55 minutes of lifting, tucking, toning, and burning later I was HOOKED. I had no idea that such small movements could make such an impact. If you were a bystander watching a barre class, 90% of the time you would think we are doing nothing. This is because the majority movements are so small, they are barely noticeable. An outsider wouldn't realize each of these moves are isometrically focused on one area- your arms, abs, thighs or butt. Each squeeze and contraction is designed to work the focus-area in a way no other exercise can, and by repeating it dozens of times over, you are getting one hell of a workout. The only equipment used is a rubber ball, tube, small weights, and of course, your body weight.
I decided that I would incorporate Barre into my weekly routine, going 5x a week. Typically, I went Tuesday night, Thursday and Friday before work, and Saturday and Sunday mornings. On other mornings, I continued to run with Kronk (our dog), and other nights, I did weights/cardio at the gym with Alan.
I committed myself to 30 days of barre, hoping to see some results. While I only lost a nominal amount of weight, the change in my body composition was incredible. (I am at a point where the pounds aren't as impacting as muscle building and body shaping).
I was hesitant to share photos at first, because I am pretty self-conscious, and I realize how annoying it is when people do this. But I want everyone to know how amazing Pure Barre is! I thought I would sign up for the 30 day trial leading up to my dress fitting and then another month preceding my wedding. Instead, I ended up signing up for the "bride to be" package, which is giving me 3 more months of unlimited classes. Coincidentally, this takes me right up to my wedding! It has become such an integral part of my workouts and week, that I find myself actively looking forward to class- even the 5:30am ones. I am so excited to see what happens in the next two and a half months - I feel myself getting stronger at every class. And that's really what any workout is about, right? Getting stronger, healthier, and just doing something great for your body!
A big shout-out and thank you to the Pure Barre team at River Oaks- every teacher I have had is amazing. I have never felt self-conscious or out of place, and only encouraged to work harder. If you're in the Houston area, I strongly recommend visiting my friends at this location. Every instructor is great- but Risa and Tyann will really kick your butt. If you're not in Texas, click here, and find the studio closest to you! All you've got to lose is inches, right?
Stay happy & healthy,
Molly
