How to Get Results From Barre Class

BARRE BREAKDOWN: WHY YOU AREN'T SEEING THE RESULTS YOU SHOULD

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Updated Oct 15 2012 - 10:17am · Posted Oct 14 2012 - 1:30pm by Jaime Young · 1 Comment

Fitness · Strength Training · Barre · Beginner Fitness Tips

Barre class is a highly effective workout and can burn up to 500 calories per session. On top of torching calories, you should have a longer body from barre in no time — that is, if you're doing it right. Many people who take barre class report seeing few to no changes in their body and can't understand why. Here are the top six mistakes people make in barre class to miss out on those results.

• No focus: If you're daydreaming or zoning out in class, you aren't getting the full benefits from the exercises. It's similar to eating mindlessly in front of the TV; when you're distracted, the activity you're doing holds less value.
• Eating habits: Since this workout can exert so much energy, you'll notice an increase in metabolism and your body may need certain foods — like protein — more. While replenishing your body is a must, take careful notice to what you're refueling your bodywith. Steer clear of foods that are high in caloric value so that they don't creep up on you. Remember the mantra "calories in, calories out."
• No cardio: Barre classes tone your muscles to make you look cut, but cardio is essential in helping zap fat. If you've stopped walking as much or aren't doing any type of cardio, you won't be able to see the tone you're putting into your physique. Try to incorporate at least 30 minutes, ideally after this strength-training workout.

Keep reading. There are a few more reasons after the break.

• Cutting class: In order to see the results from any strength-training exercise, you need to do it multiple times a week. While you may think you have been attending class often, it's easy to slip up. You can check your attendance by the week or month by asking the someone at the front desk of your studio. To track it yourself, mark it on your personal calendar. This will not only make you stick to a routine, but it will also give you a realistic idea of how often you attend.
• Slacking off: One of the things that surprises people when they become barre enthusiasts is that the class progressively gets more difficult. It isn't necessarily the moves that are changing, but you're understanding your body more to make efficient use of your time. If you don't feel constantly challenged, try to take the more challenging option when your instructor suggests it.
• Not accepting help: By listening to an instructor's corrections during class, you can get more out of each movement. Since barre is so specific, you need to set up properly in order to reap the benefits. Pay close attention to the adjustments around you and try to learn from mistakes so you can correct your form. Also pay attention to the corrections other students are getting in class — it may relate to your own form!