The more you travel around the sun, the more you learn about your body and the movements you enjoy most. When I was in my early 20s, I had more time, motivation, and energy for long HIIT classes that would get my heart rate soaring and make me sweat profusely.
On the other hand, in my 30s, I prefer short, low-impact exercises like in-person Pilates classes, morning strength training at the gym, and non-equipment strength training that fits into my lunch break.
So when I found this 8-minute full-body barre workout that combines strength training, cardio, and balance training, I knew I had to try it. Despite the name (barre is an exercise style and the barre used in ballet), this session requires no equipment.
But I use the best yoga mat to provide a comfortable cushioned surface for my joints, and the best water bottle so I can have sips of cold water between movements while I wait for my core to recover. was kept nearby. Please stop burning.
What is 8 minute barre training?
8 Minute Core Workout | Intense Barre Abs | No Equipment – YouTube Watch On
Barre is a low-impact workout that involves high repetitions and low-impact movements. Combining elements of dance, Pilates, and yoga, most repetitions are followed by a series of stretches to lengthen the muscles.
Its name comes from the stationary ballet barre used in some in-person classes. However, not all Barre classes use this. This 8-minute session is floor-based, so no equipment is required.
Designed by certified barre and Pilates instructor Lara Maurermeyer, this pro will show you how to jump right into the training and hone your form while showing off.
I tried this 8-minute barre class and here’s what I found
Even if you’ve never taken a barre class before, you’ve probably tried it before, as this class includes single and double leg raises, two plank series, and more that really test your core strength. It includes many of the exercises you’ve probably done before.
You are expected to modify and repeat this class multiple times to make it suitable for beginners and intermediates. Here is what it looked like when I unfolded the mat and tried it out.
1. Too many board changes
From forearm planks and side planks to side plank dips and knee planks. During the workout, Maurermayer challenges you to complete forward-to-back repetitions in a high plank position.
It turns out there are different plank variations to build core strength and muscles. But I didn’t realize how much the different variations change the emphasis of the muscles worked.
For example, while completing the side plank variation of this compound exercise, I felt my obliques, hips, shoulders, and core working in overdrive. Next, as I tried the knee plank, I felt my glutes, obliques, and abs supporting my weight.
2. You may forget to inhale and exhale
Despite my best efforts, several times I found myself unintentionally holding my breath during a workout to stabilize my core. In the world of professional weightlifting, this is called the Valsalva maneuver and is usually reserved for more technical lifts.
The idea of this technique is that by holding your breath when lifting very heavy weights, you can protect your spine and strengthen your core. However, according to a study published in the journal “Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation”, this can cause some contraindications, such as high blood pressure.
So when I found myself holding my breath, I tried to time my inhales and exhales to match the movements and focus on activating my abdominal muscles and core. This allowed me to prioritize my form.
3. Mix and match your workout routines to keep things interesting
Generally speaking, I tend to stick to very simple, repetitive exercise habits. This will help you stay consistent and give you one less thing to think about in the morning as you start your busy day.
So if you’re not doing strength training like pull-ups, dead hangs, or squats at the gym, you’re probably taking a Pilates class, either in-person or online.
But after this short barre class, I learned that sometimes it’s fun to mix things up and try new workouts. Additionally, completing this class allowed my body to be challenged in new ways. Where else would you have the opportunity to do so many plank variations and reps?
4. My mind and body felt stronger within 10 minutes
After 8 minutes of speed, your abs, glutes, lower back, and obliques will definitely know that you’ve finished the workout. From the first exercise (which was a plank variation), my core was fully activated.
But not only will your core muscles feel stronger, but when you finish your workout, you’ll feel elated, your stress levels will drop, and you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment for completing your workout. Exercise truly is the gift that keeps on giving.
