I’ve never been into working out hardcore at a gym. Even though I’ve had several trainers (and spent lots of $$ in the process) I never really enjoyed the process of working out with scary machines. To me, it was always intimidating! Several months ago I decided to go back to the gym, again, after months of not working out because I was so busy (excuses, excuses!) so I signed up at a local gym and during the 4 months I was signed up I went a grand total of 9 times, yes 9 times!! It was not the best use of my money, to say the least.
My excuses were usually along the lines of me thinking I was too busy and I’m traveling too much for work. I used to think these were the real reasons why I was not working out when in reality, this wasn’t the case. Long story short, I decided to cancel my membership and went on the hunt for the perfect workout routine for me. It took me a while, but I’m so excited to say I finally found something that makes me feel and look great and most importantly, that I look forward to doing.
Barre Workout
So I mentioned how I used to say I didn’t have time to go to the gym, well it was all an excuse, because the reason why I was not going it was because it was boring to me, I didn’t enjoy it! Remember, working out should be something that you enjoy and look forward to doing. I’ve heard so many good things about barre workout, mainly due to all of the top models instagraming pics of their routines.
I decided to give this a chance and I found Xtend Barre, a Boston-based boutique fitness studio. Xtend Barre is a workout that has elements of dance, ballet ,and pilates that strengthens and lengthens the body. This was all so important to me because at that time I felt really weak and out of shape. Each class has a combination of movements that enhance flexibility, improve balance, and challenge the core. For the last few weeks I’ve been trying all of the various workout routines and all I can say is that I’m completely hooked (My body already looks and feels significantly different!) The best thing is that because each class is so different, I have not felt the need to incorporate another workout into my routine.
Another important thing for me is the energy and people. At Xtend Barre the music is really cool, the staff is great. Overall it provides a really nice experience every time I go there. So if you are sick and tired of going to a regular gym I encourage to find different workouts! Sign up for different classes and experience something else like I did. For the last few days, I’ve been going every single day to prep my body for a really important trip (more on that soon!) but my plan is to continue working out 3 times a week. I no longer say I’m too busy to go work out. I think it’s important to take a break and dedicate this time to your body (and mind) at least a few times a week. If you enjoy the workout, it no longer feels like a chore.
If you live in the area I encourage you to try Xtend Barre! or if you live out of state they also have several location across the country and internationally. This is not a sponsored post – I’ve just been enjoying this work so much I felt compelled to share it with you guys!
Let me know if you’ve tried barre, or if you have any other ideas for fun workout routines. I know you guys must have some! Thanks so much for reading, I hope enjoyed reading about my routine.
Photos by Regan Cleminson
