- Ali
When I decided it was time to get back in shape it was a mental, as well as a physical challenge, to make myself do it.
I really didn’t like the idea of going to the gym and exercising for exercise’ sake, as I saw it, so looked for something that I could relate to, but which would get me back into doing some exercise too.
I had been a dancer right into my late 20’s. I went to a school where they trained Royal Academy of Dancing Scholars, I wasn’t one I’ll quickly point out! Regardless, dancing was in my blood. At university I attended classes at a local theatre school alongside the residential pupils and when I first moved to London I used to take a long and arduous route from my office in Wandsworth Common to Wimbledon to a ballet class on a Friday night. I lived in Hammersmith! Enough said - I was obsessed.
Not surprisingly when I was looking for somewhere to start I turned to dance as my first port of call. Miss H goes to ballet classes and I was dropping her off one evening when I spotted a poster for Adult classes - Extend Barre Classes was on the bill. I had no idea what it was but understood the concept of ballet and Pilates working hand in hand and signed up.
I arrived to my first class with Miss H’s ballet shoes – thankfully they fit – and got stuck in. I was so unfit that everything hurt in those first few weeks but I realised I still had some muscle memory, my feet knew how to point and I could raise my leg above my knee, so we were good to go. I started gently with one class a week and worked up to two then three and now I do some form of exercise every day - even if it is just striding out for an hour with the dog.
Xtend Barre is Pilates and dance amplified. It brings in elements of dance, Ballet and Pilates, to create an adrenaline-fueled workout that strengthens, lengthens and chisels the body.
Each class features an elegant yet energetic combination of movements that enhance flexibility, improve balance, and challenge the core.
The fusion of the two disciplines is great and the music is fantastic. For me, I liken it to clubbing but without the late night and the hangover! It’s worth a try.
I’ve definitely noticed a difference in my overall fitness. This opened the door to me starting other classes and feeling comfortable with my body again. It has toned your legs and sculpted long, lean muscles. My arms are firmer and tighter and look longer and leaner too. I now have the energy I had in my 20’s which is amazing.
Go on, why not resolve to get moving again. You might enjoy it!
