A Barre class is an energetic workout that blends elements of Dance, Pilates, yoga, and Strength training. This can seem intimidating and you will have a lot of questions to ask. Take a deep breath. Nora Hameidani, founder of The Barre Effect tells you all you need to know.
Growing up as a ballet dancer, I spent hours each day training at the barre. It was only until my early twenties that I discovered and fell in love with the barre fitness method. I found the classes super challenging yet fun, and the technique supported my dance training and performing as cross training. Barre is a low impact fitness technique that blends elements of dance, Pilates, yoga, and strength training. It strengthens, tones, and lengthens the muscles. Originally created to be physiotherapy for injured dancers, it is a technique appropriate and safe for all levels, ages, and abilities. As an instructor for over 12 years, I can honestly say it is the most effective fitness technique I have come across. There are so many benefits to the class and method… here are eight of the biggest ones!
1- Rehabs after injuries and prevents further injuries
The class can be modified based on any injuries, with many of the moves recommended by physiotherapist. Often clients come to barre after being injured and realize it is a technique that has longevity and prevents further injuries.
2- Appropriate for pre-during-post pregnancy
Because everything can be modified, pregnant women can still participate in most of the class, and if there is a section that might not be appropriate then they can sub it out for something else! It is a great way to keep the body strong and help to reduce stress and anxiety. I taught and took barre through both of my pregnancies, and we have pregnant women in almost every class. Post-delivery, upon getting clearance from their doctor, women can take the class at their own pace and again modify when needed. It is also a nice hour break from your day, helping with emotional health as well J
3- “One stop shop” for cardio, strength training, stretching
Many people do not have the time or desire to workout all day long, so the barre technique covers each element of fitness in one efficient hour! You are strength training, in a high energy cardio way, ending with time to stretch and lengthen the muscles after working them so hard. It is the best class work busy moms and/or working women knowing that you have your fitness covered in under an hour.
4- Creates long lean muscles, revving up your metabolism
Barre technique works the muscles in a way that lengthens them, and we always take the time to stretch after working them intensely. Muscles burns calories/fat so when you have more lean muscle on your body you able to efficiently burn and although you are muscular you are still lean and feminine—like a dancer.
5- Helps with coordination and balance
The class is set to music, forcing you to focus on the beat and try to stay in rhythm. The movements are often compound, using different muscles groups at once, which works on your coordination and mental focus. Many moves are balanced on one leg, which challenges your balance as well as strengthens your stabilizing muscles, increasing bone density and preventing injury.
6- Every class is different, so it doesn’t get boring
The structure and the moves are not set, so you never feel bored or like you are getting into a repetitive cycle. This forces you to have more focus during class not knowing what is coming next, which allows you to work more efficiently, truly take the hour as a mental break from your day. Before you know it, class is over, and you have worked every muscle in the body!
7- You can never “conquer” it, continues to challenge you
There are endless combinations of moves and exercises, so it always keep you guessing and on your toes. Because every class is different and will then work the muscles in a different way and order, you can never feel like it is easy or that you have plateaued. This might be frustrating for some people, but most clients feel this is motivational to keep going and see what their body can achieve.
8- Barre is full body, works every muscle in the body in a efficient way
Every class works every muscle, so you leave feeling balanced and accomplished. You don’t need to take any other classes or do any other exercise, if you are living a healthy lifestyle, Barre can be your only form of exercise to keep your entire body strong and toned.
Nora Hameidani
Nora found her love of dance at a young age, starting out at a ballet and contemporary dance training academy before continuing her training at University. After graduating, Nora moved to New York City to train and perform with several contemporary dance companies which is where she fell in love with the boutique fitness scene, becoming a regular at Spin, Yoga, and Barre classes. This led Nora to be selected and trained at Physique 57, teaching at their Manhattan and Hamptons Studios. Always wanting a challenge and to further her career and gain a more worldly perspective, Nora was selected to relocate to Dubai in the summer of 2013 to be the Master Trainer & Assistant Director of Recruitment for the Middle East franchise. Since moving to the Middle East, Nora has continued teaching Barre as well as taught Spin and Megaformer classes at various boutique studios. Nora is REPS Level 2 certified, a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, an avid yogi, and mother of two crazy fun boys with endless energy!
Visit www.barreeffectdxb.com to book your class.