Category — Fitness

Ladies, looking for a fitness change of pace? Try shaking things up with a Pure Barre class. Developed by dancer and choreographer Carrie Rezabek Dorr in 2001, this technique utilizes the isometric holds and tiny repeated motions of ballet dancers to tone and tighten your arms, thighs, seat, and abs.

Each class follows the same structure, but instructors can choose from a variety of moves to keep things interesting. Class begins with a warm-up, including planks and pilates moves, and a series of weight exercises to tone your arms. Then you’ll move up to the front of the room to work on thighs and glutes against the ballet bar. You’ll finish on the floor with a killer set of moves for strong abs. During class you’ll use light weights, a band, and a small exercise ball to maximize your workout. Socks are also required in the studio.

Newcomers, beware. This workout is not for the faint of heart. The first time I stepped into a Pure Barre studio I thought my legs weren’t going to make it. I was surprised at how much I sweated and shook while standing almost still and performing simple movements like tucking my hips under or straightening and slightly bending my leg. These tiny motions are designed to work muscles to failure in order to gain the most strength. After each set, I loved the stretching break, which loosens up every muscle worked to create lean, dancer-like muscles.

Afterwards I was exhausted, but I was hooked. After about a month of classes, I noticed significant improvements in the strength of my legs, arms, abs, and overall stamina and fitness.

Located in Boulder’s beautiful 29^th Street Mall, the Pure Barre studio will provide you with the space to challenge and inspire yourself. If you want to try this workout at home, Pure Barre DVDs are now available, including the new Flatirons series named after the beautiful mountains that form Boulder’s dramatic backdrop.

Though challenging, Pure Barre will push you to new heights of fitness. Stick with it and you’ll have legs you can’t wait to show off.