Ballet dancers have flexible bodies conditioned from hours of training. Their specialized workouts create long and lean frames — think Natalie Portman in Black Swan. Their shapely legs, abs, thighs and buttocks come through hybrid weight training, Pilates and cardio workouts with some straight-up ballet pole (barre) stretching.
Their moves are spreading like wildfire, and barre-style workouts are popping up throughout the world with a variety of applications. From sweat-inducing cardio sessions that are hardly a dainty ballet class, to classes that stay true to their ballerina roots, there is a barre workout for you!
If you don’t want to dance in Swan Lake, but do want to get a more toned ballet-ready body, read on as we break down the different methods and tell you which celebrities are on pointe for this craze.
It doesn’t matter which class you choose — you are gonna WORK!
BEYONDBARRE
Feel the burn and see the results in your core, arms and legs, and the glutes.
You’ll need a ballet barre, a handrail (or a counter top), and a super cool GlideBoard.
Inspired by ballet, ice skating, and intense cardio classes.
Differs from others because of an intense approach that incorporates cardio for fat burning and endurance.
Attend a class at one of a dozen studios in the U.S.
BARRE3
Described as “ballet meets yoga and Pilates”
Utilizes a 3-step method where poses are held for longer periods with focus on small muscle movements. Session ends with a cardio blast.
Celebrity fans include Madonna, who may be striking a pose beside you at your next Barre3 class.
Required accessories include a yoga mat, small “prop” ball, ballet barre or sturdy chair.
Classes popping up in over 30 US cities, Canada and even the Philippines with more coming soon. DVDs: Seven different workouts sold on the Barre3.com website.
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