Just call me the Barre Tender (Ha?)

I actually went outta my comfort zone and tried a new workout class today! YAY for embracing Workout Wednesday!

Tonight my mom and I went to a barre exercise class (Barre="bar"). I had never even heard of it before, but mom said she'd heard from her friends that it truly transforms the body and we had to try it some time.

When we got there, we entered a medium-sized room lined with mirrors and barres (like, ballet style.) We were given two 2-lb. weights, a resistance band, and a small rubber dodgeball. The class had about 30 people in it and lasted for one hour.

This class was HARD. Instead of the typical large movements they encourage you to do in zumba classes and workout videos, the barre workout consists of tiny isolations that involve lifting and squeezing only a matter of inches. There were abs and arms portions, but the main focus was on the "seat" (which I thought was a cute way to refer to it) and the thighs.

There were certainly times when I had to stop and rest my muscles, and there were definitely times when my legs were quivering a noticeable amount. Tomorrow I'll let you know how sore I am, because I'm sure that's when I'll be feeling it the most!

It's been a while since I've been to a workout class. I'm so accustomed to the privacy and comfort of my basement that it was kind of a culture shock to work out in a studio with so many people around me. I quickly realized I was the least flexible and one of the least fit people in there, which was slightly disheartening. But I was proud to finish the class in one piece, having only taken a few quick breathers. A few weeks ago I know that would've been impossible for me. Also, watching myself work out (in the mirror) was a new experience, and it was empowering to see how strong and focused I can be.

I'd give the barre workout the following ratings:

• Difficulty: 8.5/10
• Fun: 6/10
• Worth it? Yes.

Next time, Mom and I are going to zumba! We agree that it's more fun and burns almost as many calories.

Quick health update! As you can see by my ticker, I'm down 6 pounds since the start of the summer! (Well, technically 5.8, but, shh.) YAY! I don't expect to lose weight on my vacation in CA, but I'm hoping not to gain any, either! Fingers crossed. 

Have a great Wednesday!
-Ellen