"Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." Jim Ryun

Can you pass the Barre?

Okay, so what's up with this whole new "barre" class trend? It seems to be a form of fitness that blew up over night. No dance experience required, a barre class ultimately combines ballet, yoga, and Pilates to give you a stronger, longer, and leaner body.
As soon as I heard about it, I simply had to test it out. 

While I was in Florida, I decided to give barre a try. I found the most adorable studio in Winter Park called Barre 3. 

One of the many reasons why I loved taking a class from Barre 3 is the combination of dance and yoga. There is a constant focus on the breath (very helpful) and plyometric exercises that literally make your muscles shake (sounds scary but it's an INCREDIBLE feeling). What are plyometrics you ask? These are exercises based around having your muscles exert maximum force in as short a time as possible.

As soon as I entered the studio, I instantly loved it. Not only was it aesthetically pleasing and clean, but the staff was super friendly as well! Danielle (see below), was our instructor that day and she was inspiring and motivating. Thank you for an amazing workout!

Barre 3's motto is to provide classes that are designed to transform the body to one of equal balance, strength, and flexibility. The studio offers multiple classes that cater to women of every age and lifestyle. They even have a childcare facility for the wonderful mothers who need a little "me" time!

The studio owner, Ashley Dishman, was so hospitable during my visit. It is quite obvious that she puts forth 100% of love and effort into the studio. Although we did not get the chance to meet in person, she left me a little gift. Thank you so much for the tumbler and tote bag! I literally use the two every time I go to the gym.

A typical Barre 3 class would begin with finding yourself in the vibrant locker area where you can safely stow away your belongings. It is spacious so you have plenty of room to sit and prepare for class. It is encouraged that new clients arrive 15 minutes early in order to sign a waiver, meet the instructor, and get a little tour in before class. 

Next, you'll walk into the studio and set yourself up. You'll want to grab a strap and core ball. Light weights are optional. Your instructor will grab a Pilates mat for you when it's time to get on the floor!

 The ballet barre is set all along the sides of the classroom. The front mirror is a great assistance when you are making minor adjustments to your body during an exercise. 

Your class is set to 60 minutes of small isometric movements utilizing the ballet barre. The upbeat music helps you stay focused and motivated throughout the class time. Not to mention the instructor's positivity and energy! 

What I absolutely loved about Barre 3 were the modifications and adjustments that our instructor, Danielle, provided for us. It made me feel that I was really pushing myself while keeping my body safe from injury. 

FAQ's:

What should I wear to a barre 3 class?

It is recommended to wear yoga attire. For example, I wore tight yoga pants, a sports bra, and a loose fitted top. You can take the class barefoot or with socks. I prefer socks that have a sticky silicone bottom. That way my feet do not side. You can purchase them at places like Target, TJ Maxx, and even right there within the studio! Any other items will be provided to you during class: yoga strap, Pilates mat, ballet barre, light weights, and a core ball.

Do I have to have prior experience before taking a barre class?

Absolutely not! Like I mentioned before, Barre 3 caters to all age groups and walks of life. You definitely do not have to be a dancer or yogi to take a class here. Barre 3 makes sure that all their classes are designed to make everyone welcome and successful.

What kinds of results can I expect from taking Barre 3 classes? How long until I begin to see results?

From doing research, it seems that students typically begin seeing results after about 10 classes. Do not forget to eat a clean diet as well and the you will see results faster. I mean, even after taking just one class my body felt different! Want to know all the benefits of Barre 3? Take a look at the list below that comes directly from their website:

• Builds long, lean muscles and a strong core.
• Fast body shaping results and long term postural benefits.
• Energizes and increases stamina.
• Develops muscle balance leading to a well-proportioned body with less risk for injury.
• Increases flexibility and creates a natural flow to the body.
• Precise instruction for each client improves results (without the cost of a personal trainer).
• Motivating group environment builds connections and community, both important in making exercise a regular part of life.
• Efficient 60-minute total body workout with play lounge makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Connects mind, body and breath and relieves stress.

Think that Barre 3 could be a great option for you? Awesome. You won't regret it. Go ahead and check out their website to find a location near you!

www.barre3.com

"Perseverance, secret of all triumphs." -Victor Hugo

Happy Friday everyone!

I hope your week has been fabulous and that you are continuing in your positive daily goals whatever they may be. Have you been eating clean? What about exercising? Keep in mind that these two things combined together will help you not only physically but mentally as well.

For example, I just started doing HITS on the treadmill this week. I did 3 days straight and took an off day (mainly because my ankle was super sore yesterday). During these three days, I decided to completely cut out all processed foods. Let me tell you, that was difficult because I LOVE me some Kashi cereal or oatmeal in the morning. Regardless, just after 3 days, I noticed my change in mood and the way I physically felt. I had a ton of energy, was constantly smiling, laughing more, and felt stronger within my core. WOW. If this can happen in 3 days, imagine what it could be like if it were my permanent lifestyle.

So, just like that, I decided to apply this. Of course, I will allow myself occasional cheat meals.... aka chocolate. BUT, in order to practice discipline, the quality of the tiger, I will only allow it in moderation.

Fully committing to a life change like this takes dedication and perseverance. It takes a strong will to do so. I've come to find that it's easiest to say no to tempting things if you are already in the swing of saying no. This is an example of what I mean: if you are sitting at home with nothing to do and someone offers you ice cream, the chances that you will eat it simply out of boredom is pretty high. On the other hand, if you already dedicated an hour at the gym that day, the chances that you will say no to that ice cream is also high. This is because of our mind set. I know, I know... I feel like I have talked about this a million times. Seriously though guys, mind set is extremely important.

My Summer Yoga Journal :

Although I practice all the time, I would not consider myself biased. I honestly do think that yoga is an excellent form of exercise that purifies not only the body but the mind as well. Its various forms of healing has helped people of all stages: children, young adults, athletes, pregnant women, seniors, etc. There is a reason why the Buddhist people are typically associated with this form of exercise. Yoga is a physical activity that strengthens/lengthens your muscles, increases flexibility, decompresses your internal organs, and purifies your body of toxins. With that, it also helps you to clarify your mind and create internal peace by utilizing meditation techniques.

This entire summer, I have been away from my home in Los Angeles, and away from my home studio, Moksha Yoga LA. I have been spending time with family in Florida and have found it difficult to find a place where I feel at home and can practice. So, I decided to wander around during my Florida travels in order to find various studios to share with you. It's actually very fun finding new places because it gives me the chance to meet and interact with new people. Here is a list of fantastic yoga studios I have attended from my travels this summer:

Orlando Power Yoga- Orlando, Florida:

Seriously guys, if you are located in the Orlando area and looking for an amazing place to practice, this is it. It is my #1 choice. Because I am originally from Orlando, this used to be my home studio. OPY was founded by the lovely Kelly Senn who studied under Bikram Choudhary in Los Angeles. She received her 200 & 500 hour teaching certifications, attended multiple workshops, and basically has been kicking butt. She is an incredible teacher and role model. All of the teachers at OPY are phenomenal. If you really want to sweat, try one of Greg Duke's or Alex McCullough's power hour classes. If you like martial arts, you should definitely take a Budokan class with Reider Howe. You will not be disappointed with whichever teacher you take. 

Yoga 365: The Hot Yoga Center- Clearwater, Florida: 

This small studio is a hidden gem located right next to the beaches. I got the privilege to have a private session with one of the owners, former Tampa Ray Aaron Ledesma. He and his wife, Karen, opened up the studio a few years ago after Aaron discovered that yoga dramatically helped his back injury from baseball. Aaron shows a love for his practice and an extreme willingness to help others who have too suffered from athletic injuries. If you ever find yourself in Clearwater Beach, I highly recommend taking some time out of your day to take a class at this studio. You will sweat, you will learn, you will breathe, and you will have fun.

Florida Power Yoga- Land O' Lakes, Florida:

Talk about an intense work out. This is not your average power hour yoga class. This is power hour combined with the Insanity/p90x workout. Seriously. If you stray away from yoga because it is too slow for you or perhaps because you do not like Sanskrit verbiage, then this is the place for you. The energy is dynamic in this place. The studio is brightly colored and there's a happy and energetic feel that you can't shake lose. I received the chance to speak with the owner who is as bright as the walls you are surrounded by. I loved coming to class here even though there was a point in time where I may or may not  felt like I was going to pass out. Regardless, the feeling I had when the class was over was completely worth it.

Palm Yoga- Tampa, Florida:

This little studio is tucked away within the heart of Tampa. I didn't know much about it so I decided to simply walk in and take the hot Vinyasa Flow class. I'm so glad that I did because I loved it. Although it was a little slower paced than I am used to, the instructor really goes through each pose with you so that you can understand exactly which muscle groups you are using. Not only is this informational, but also helps when practicing on your own at home. The class as a whole was extremely soothing and the environment was loving and kind. These qualities are extremely important because it gives me a sense of belonging and comfort. I know that whenever I am in Tampa and need some time to unwind, Palm Yoga is the place where I will be.

Namaste Yoga Studio- Tampa, Florida:

This facility was actually one of the first studios I visited in the Tampa area. I love it because the instructors are very personable and willing to create an environment suitable to your needs. The studio also has a spa located inside and a farmers market every Sunday!

Evolation Yoga- Carrollwood/Tampa, Florida: 

I was pleasantly surprised with my experience at Evolation. At first, I did not know how to feel because the instructor initially seemed a little high strung for my liking. He took me off guard when he stated, "This is savasana, not snooze-vasana! I do not want you to close your eyes in this 'resting' pose." At first, I could not believe my ears. How could an instructor tell us not to rest in our resting pose? Although a little irritated, I continued. I am happy that I did because it opened my eyes to new ways of teaching and exploring yoga as a student. I was able to focus on different aspects of the physical positions rather than from the mind. Although this is not necessarily how I would teach yoga, I did appreciate the change. I spoke to the instructor afterwards and quickly learned that he was a really nice guy!

Cheval Athletic Club- Lutz, Florida: 

This may be a little tricky to take a class at because you would actually have to know someone or have a reason to be within this gate restricted community. If you ever have the chance to wander within the community, you should definitely stop by the athletic club. They completely renovated the entire building. Theres a yoga/pilates room, a spin room, martial arts room, weight lifting room, tennis court, and arcade! Let's just say this place is definitely a luxury sort of YMCA. As far as the yoga classes go, it is definitely a more slow paced experience. Keeping in mind that a majority of the people who use the facility are seniors, I was able to interact and learn from them. As a yoga teacher in training, it is very important that I learn from all wakes of life. If you are looking for a more extreme workout, I would not recommend taking a yoga class from this club. Go ahead and try one of their kickboxing or cycle classes!

As you can see, I love finding new studios to share with everyone. Although these are my last few weeks in Florida, I will be sure to post if I end up attending classes at any other studios. 

Have an incredible day and remember to create positive change in your day.

<3