Xtend Barre Stick Class

My lovely friend, Erika, is an instructor for the Xtend Barre West Palm Beach studio. She invited me this past weekend to try a new class the studio is offering called Xtend Barre Stick.

 Xtend Barre Stick  is a 55 minute workout that utilizes a Pilates Stick attached to the ballet barre to add resistance. This class has a cardio component to build endurance and develops upper body strength and core stability.

I arrived thirty minutes early to take some shots of the beautiful studio and have Erika demonstrate some exercises for me. 

Then I was able to test out my skills. I couldn't believe the extra resistance the stick provided.  These moves may look "easy" but I definitely felt all my muscles being worked.

     

This was a killer core "around the world" ab exercise. Burn baby burn. My abs were screaming after this exercise!

As my souvenir I purchased a pair of Xtend Barre socks that  prevent slipping and  add traction for working out on the studio floor.

I have to admit I was apprehensive at first to take this class. I am not nimble or graceful.  I thought  this class  would be out of my element. I have no training in professional dance and my flexibility is that of a plank of wood.  In the spirit of trying new things I decided to give Xtend Barre Stick a whirl. Once the class started all my anxiety melted away. I felt at ease and had a blast.

The warm up consisted of some standing movements away from the barre with some cardio. The workout portion of the class was on the barre and the routine included lower body and upper body work along with core conditioning utilizing the Pilates stick and cable. The class ended with some mat and additional core work.

Barre with Pilates Stick Equipment

I was pleasantly surprised to find my heart rate elevated and breaking a sweat. The atmosphere of the class was fun and relaxed. There were women of all ages and fitness levels who participated. I would love to take this class again. I know that it will help me improve my core strength and stability.

If you are interested in checking out Xtend Barre West Palm Beach there currently is a phenomenal Groupon deal for individual or group PilatesReformer/ Tower classes starting at $49.

-Brooklynn


* Disclaimer: Before starting any new activity or fitness routine please consult with your physician and have a complete physical.