Barre3 is a combination of ballet and pilates that works to lengthen your muscles instead of adding bulk. This is definitely what drew me to this workout. I have always felt that, especially my legs, tend to be lean, but bulky with muscle. I would looove to be more toned and lengthen my body! Barre3 is also huge on posture, which is great for someone like me who has issues with scoliosis. A strong back can really help straighten it out.
All you need is a sturdy chair to act as your "bar", light weights, a yoga mat or towel, and a small rubber ball. The DVD actually comes with the ball which is great because I have always wanted one. The DVD is conducted by the founder of Barre3, Sadie Lincoln, and she walks you through every move.
The DVD jumps right into the exercises, as Leslie says, "not a second is wasted in Barre3." You start out with a brief stretch and then work the legs. The leg workout consists of a lot of pliés and bending and holding at the knees. You then move to arms which is where you use the weights. You then move to the floor where the ball comes into play. Lots of squeezing and pushing down on the floor with your feet.
There are some over arching themes to this workout:
- Squeezing- whether it is the ball, your thighs or any other part of your body you are constantly squeezing your muscles.
- Small movements- when lifting, squatting or pulsing, the whole workout consists of small controlled movements. This is part of what tones the inner muscles making you lean.
- Your whole body will shake- at times your legs, your arms and your abs will shake during the workout. Leslie says that this is what should happen, and that it is a sign your muscles are doing what they are suppose to.
What I liked about it:
The class was 40 minutes long and on a DVD so I was able to pop my dinner in the oven and do the workout before it was even ready to come out. The moves are simple and easy to understand, while also working the muscles. This morning I can tell that I worked out last night, especially in my arms and inner thighs.
What I didn't like:
There wasn't much not to like. I am worried that I may get bored with the same moves over and over, and would like a way to alter them as I become more advanced at the DVD, but I will worry about that when I get to that point.
Overall I really liked the DVD, and it was a great workout for doing at home!