Change Your Body with BarreAmped

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – you can’t exercise your way out of a bad diet. But you also can’t sit on the couch and expect a change in diet to truly change your body. I’ve not really ever struggled with my weight, so exercise hasn’t always been at the top of my priority list. Plus, exercise was boring. And hard. And sweaty.

I tried running for a while, but it wasn’t until I learned how to run barefoot (with proper form) that I actually began to like running. I had the hardest time motivating myself to workout in general. UNTIL – I found a method I actually liked!

About three years ago, my friend invited me to come with her to an exercise class taught by Suzanne Bowen, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Now, Suzanne’s method, BarreAmped, is in 30+ cities all over the country, as well as some international studios.

BarreAmped is an ultra results-oriented fitness regime based on modern and classical dance moves (though it is not a dance class), Pilates, yoga, and deep stretching. It’s a kick-butt workout that lengthens and elongates your muscles, tones your body, strengthens your core, and leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Since I love the method so much, I’m now certified as an instructor at BarreAmped Nashville!

Dance, Yoga, or Pilates? All 3 and Then Some!

Most people I talk to about the method have no clue what it is, but they’ve heard of yoga, dance, and Pilates. BarreAmped draws from elements of all three methods, pulling out the best parts for an incredible regimen. Here’s the breakdown from the BarreAmped website:

In comparison to dance classes where many people feel intimidated, BarreAmped® classes are packed with all types of people. Most people who take BarreAmped® were never dancers but can benefit from the strength moves and graceful transitions based on modern and classical dance.

In comparison to yoga which usually de-emphasizes results, BarreAmped® stresses the results of lean thighs, lifted seats, flat abs, and toned arms. But BarreAmped® is so attuned to form and position that some of the mental meditative benefits of yoga are felt throughout and at end of class.

In comparison to mat Pilates, BarreAmped® is weight-bearing. This produces dramatic, proven and often quick results. BarreAmped® is very inspired by Pilates techniques using imagery and precision just as classic Pilates classes do.

Get in on the Action

Don’t worry – we don’t do this in class! ;)

BarreAmped is different from other barre fitness methods in that it teaches a neutral spine (as opposed to utilizing a strong tuck in the pelvis) and it is incredibly form focused. As an instructor, my teacher trainers emphasized proper form like there was no tomorrow! All BarreAmped instructors are highly trained to correct your form so you stay safe and get the most effective workout.

Check here to see if BarreAmped is offered at a studio near you. If it’s not yet, you can help us by recommending a Pilates or yoga studio in your area that you think would be a good fit. Email me at Lori (at) BarreAmpedNashville (dot) com!

In the meantime, I highly recommend checking out Suzanne Bowen’s streaming workouts. You don’t get the accountability benefits of a class setting, but for an incredibly affordable $10/month, you get full access to her streaming workout videos. You can choose workout plans, making it very feasible, even for the busiest of us all. Plus, they require no special equipment (other than the optional mat and light hand weights).

I’ll leave you with a fun video highlighting BarreAmped so you can get an even better idea of what a class would look like. Get into a class and change your body! You’re worth it!

What fitness methods have you found most enjoyable? Are you able to stick with them? What changes have you seen in your body?