Happy Happy Friday!
How's your Friday going so far? I love Fridays because I get to teach two barre classes and I'm usually done with work by noon. It's hard to beat that! :)
Since I have barre on the brain, I thought it was time for another barre breakdown. Today, I am going to take you through a side series that focuses on your outer thighs, glutes, and core.
Begin by placing your forearm on the barre and lifting up and out of your shoulder. You want to keep a long side body throughout the entire series (work those obliques). Lift leg slightly off the ground for your starting position.
Next, lift the leg up towards hip height keeping the foot flexed and leg straight. Make sure it stays directly out to the side. You don't want to hinge forward or backwards at the hip. Tighten through the core and keep a long side body. Lift and lower 16 times.
Placing your hand on your head increases the intensity of the work in your core. After you lift and lower 16x's, pulse the leg at the top for 16 repetitions.
Next, point your toe and draw little circles about the size of a tea cup with your leg. Make sure the movement is coming from your hip and not your ankle. It's important to keep your core extremely tight here. Circle 8x's in each direction.
Finally, kick your leg forward and backwards. Think about tightening your core as you kick forward and squeezing your glutes as you kick backwards. Only kick as far as you can in each direction without moving your upper body. Repeat 8x's in each direction.
Side Series Recap:
- Lift and lower leg 16x's keeping forearm on the barre, foot flexed, and core tight.
- Pulse 16x's at the top of your lift, moving up and down about 1 inch in each direction.
- Point the toe, and draw little circles forward and backwards 8x's in each direction.
- Kick forward and back 8x's only as far as you can without moving your upper body.
- Repeat on the opposite leg.
For me, barre is definitely one of the most effective and comfortable workouts to do while pregnant. I can challenge myself without my baby bump getting in the way or fear of injury! As always, listen to your body and do what feels right for you. Feel free to email me at LaurenEGeorge@gmail.com with any comments or questions.
What is your favorite move in barre class?
Other moms-to-be, have you tried barre workouts yet?
I hope you all have a wonderful Friday!
In health,
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