This post was sponsored by the Bar Method Tampa, but all opinions are my own. I've been working out at Bar Method since 2016.
I recently moved into a new place, and of course location was a top priority, location to the Bar Method Tampa that is.
Yes, I literally moved to a home that was closer to my barre studio.
It wasn't the only factor, but it was a top three reason.
And that's how much I love going to the Bar Method Tampa.
If you follow my personal Instagram stories, you know I frequently post about working out there, and even been featured on Great Day Tampa Bay about why it's such an amazing work out, but do you know why?
Well, I tell you.
I am stronger
When I tried my first Bar workout about two years ago, I couldn't do a push up. In fact, I was overweight and not in great shape. Though, the way the classes are designed, I didn't get discouraged. They made me want try harder to become stronger so I could hold the move for the entire time. It was a challenge, but in a great way.
Now I love looking at my arms in the mirror because I see definitions in my muscles. When I touch my legs, I can feel that I have muscles there. I remember the first time I realized I had a quad muscle, it actually shocked me! I have a butt now, and I didn't think it was possible for me to have a booty.
I've never stuck with a workout long enough that it has transformed my body, until Bar.
Bar has given me more than physical strength, it's mentally challenges me too. Typically when we tell ourselves that “we can't” during a workout, our bodies can do the movement, but our minds get the best of us. This workout makes me mentally stronger and helps me clear my head. I leave every workout feeling more positive than when I walked in the door.
I want to workout
When I go to Bar Method classes, I want to be there. I get excited about working out. I don't have to “drag myself to the gym.” Plus, the studio offers different challenges throughout the year to keep you engaged so that you don't go into autopilot.
I LOVE the instructors; they are hilarious! They call you by your name, motivate you during class and keep it light-hearted with some almost “R” jokes. When it comes to teaching, the instructors are focused on making sure you have proper form and are adjusting your body so that you protect your knees and back. They really do make you feel comfortable and confident.
There are different styles and levels of class, so on days I have a time crunch and need an “Express” 45-minute class, I can still workout, but when I want to sweat like crazy and push my body to the next level, I'll take a cardio-focused “Bar Move” class.
For first-timers, I recommend the “Level 1” class that focuses on the basics of the Bar Method.
https://vimeo.com/150545352
It's low-impact
I've taken higher intensity workout classes and while I enjoy them for a while, my body often ends up with a lot of aches and pains. In fact, I'm having knee issues right now, and I haven't been able to run for several months.
One of my favorite things about Bar Method classes is there is no running or jumping, but you still burn calories and get your heart rate up. There are women of all ages in class, even grandmothers! (But let's be clear, these are kick-ass strong grandmothers!) I burn up to 400+ calories in the “Bar Move” class without a treadmill or jumping jacks.
It's a Community
Bar is big on community. From the moment you walk in, the environment is extremely welcoming. The staff calls you by first name and gives you encouragement during class. There are a lot of regulars, so you get to know the women (and occasional guys) who workout there. There is a local Facebook group and social outings throughout the year. The owner, Jenny, even put together a dragon boat race team; it was so freaking fun!
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