Barre Pilates

 
 

Barre Fitness Classes

In 2021, we introduced “Mat, Barre and Bliss”, a Barre Pilates class at our Cleveland (Brisbane) yoga and pilates studio.

Barre Pilates combines ballet inspired movements and Pilates, as well as elements of dance, yoga and strength training. The barre is used as a prop to help you balance, leaving you to focus on isometric strength exercises.

Just like a regular Pilates class, Barre classes involve exercises that hold the muscles of the legs, abdomen, glutes and arms under tension for extended periods.

And don’t worry – you don’t need to be a trained dancer to do a barre workout!

The Origins of Barre Pilates

The practice of barre fitness first came about in 1959 in London, when Lotte Berk, a German born ballet dancer, injured her back.

Working with an osteopath, she learned to “curve her lower back during her exercises so it wouldn’t irritate the injury” as well as functional strength exercises using light weights. Berk saw an opportunity to combine her new knowledge with her dance background, ultimately creating the first barre fitness class.

The original Lotte Berk Technique was a combination of modern ballet moves, yoga and rehabilitation exercises. The goal of the class was to improve strength and flexibility in women, while using a combination of barre work and floor exercises.

The workout was also designed specifically for non-dancers to achieve a dancer’s body.

What to Expect…

Barre classes at our Cleveland studio include a 30-minute full workout, before finishing with a relaxing 15-minute stretch and release to relieve tight muscles and tension.

You will be guided by one of our experienced instructors every step of the way to ensure you’re getting the most out of the class. If you’re new to barre fitness, the focus will be on your body position, breathing and timing … but most importantly, to make sure you don’t overdo it!

You’re more than welcome to bring your own yoga mat, but we do also have these available in the studio; however we do encourage you to bring your own towel to your class.

The low impact exercises in a Barre Pilates class promote:

  • Better posture;

  • Core stability;

  • Optimal alignment of the joints;

  • Improved balance ;

  • Greater flexibility;

  • Mental Focus;

  • Overall strength;

  • Toned stomach muscles;

  • and a reduction in stress levels.

Experience these fantastic benefits for yourself! Find out how you can come and try our Barre Pilates class for free, by emailing admin@newdawnpilates.com or view our session schedule here!