A new group exercise trend that is gaining popularity is barre workouts. Barre is actually the stationary handrail that is used in ballet studios for support during different warm ups and workouts. Barre workouts were developed by a ballerina who had injured her back and developed a dance-based exercise routine to complement her rehabilitation. Today, there are a variety of studios that offer various barre workouts of varying levels of difficulty.
Barre workouts are a combination of yoga, Pilates, and ballet moves that are designed to strengthen and lengthen muscles. There is an emphasis on core control, stability and posture. Instructors will be sure that you are performing the moves with good alignment and the appropriate technique. The movements performed are generally small, slow, and controlled and are isometric, which is a safe muscle contraction to perform over time. Some workouts may require you to hold a posture or position for an extended period of time, which is challenging the endurance of your muscles.
Barre workouts can be good for people of all ages and fitness levels. These workouts are safe for pregnant women and are low impact, which can be good for those with arthritis. Because of it’s combination of stretching, strengthening, and posture, barre workouts can be a beneficial adjunct to your physical therapy rehabilitation. However, barre may not build functional strength like compound movements (such as lunges and squats) do and it may not raise your heart rate enough to gain a cardiovascular effect. Overall, barre workouts can be an effective way to maintain strength and improve your posture. Talk to your SetPT Physical Therapist to see if barre workouts could enhance your physical therapy plan of care.
