Barre workouts have gained immense popularity over the years, and for good reason. They are an effective way to increase muscular endurance and strength, while also improving your balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. However, not all barre workouts are created equal, and it's important to understand the differences between them. Let's address some of the common misconceptions about barre--with the UpBeat twist–and the benefits to teaching and participating in UpBeat Barre Workouts
True or False: Barre workouts focus on small, repetitive movements.
Answer: DEPENDS, but not UpBeat!
A common misconception about barre, is that barre workouts focus on small, repetitive movements that can help improve muscular endurance and tone the body. While this is true for some traditional barre formats, it's important to note that not all barre workouts are created equal. Upbeat Barre, for example, includes a variety of movements that work both large and small muscle groups–as a muscular endurance HIIT workout, UpBeat Barre works muscles from large to small in functional patterns to improve overall fitness. Using these techniques, UpBeat Barre prevents strain on the joints and connective tissues that pulsing for what seems like endless hours can cause (pssst, not all soreness is created with longevity and strength building in mind. Pulsing for a long period of time and then feeling extreme pain in your joints is neither safe nor effective).
True or False: Barre workouts can help improve balance and flexibility.
Answer: TRUE!!
Barre workouts can help improve balance and flexibility. UpBeat Barre, includes a variety of movements that target balance and flexibility. We have a whole track designed with BALANCE in mind, and many of our other tracks add in a balance and stability element. Flexibility is a key factor in workouts that UpBeat Barre incorporates directly into our exercises. After we shorten a muscle, we lengthen it. Part of our focus in FDA is that when we add depth, we bring in height. The increased focus on workouts means that you’re more effectively working out, and in turn, lengthening your fascia as you extend.
True or False: Barre workouts can be challenging for beginners.
Answer: TRUE, but UpBeat Barre is for everyBODY!
Any new format or group fitness class can be intimidating, and the most common reason people will cite for not attending barre classes is “Oh, I’m not a ballerina/dancer”. Well. We have some news for you. Upbeat Barre is designed to be accessible to all levels, with modifications offered in a non-judgemental way and environment. The class is also designed to be fun and engaging, making it easier for beginners to stick with it. Moving to music is shown to decrease perceived exertion by 15%, so you’re working out harder than you think, and probably having so much fun you’re already planning your next UpBeat Barre class before you leave.
True or False: Barre workouts may not provide enough cardiovascular exercise.
Answer: DEPENDS, but not UpBeat!
It’s true that some barre classes do not provide a cardio element. They either stay in similar positions for long periods of time, move at a slower pace, take breaks between sets, or generally don’t provide a lot of movement or large-muscle action. Upbeat Barre is designed to be a full-body workout, incorporating elements of cardio, strength training, and flexibility. This means that participants can get a complete workout in just one class.
True or False: Barre workouts can be effective in improving posture.
Answer: TRUE!
Upbeat Barre includes a variety of movements that target the muscles in the back and shoulders, helping to improve posture and reduce the risk of injury.
Have you tried an UpBeat Barre class yet? Did this blog post make you want to? Let us know in the comments below!