Whether it's beating the 4 o'clock slump or just trying to wake up, I'm sure you can use an energy boost at some point during your day, Believe it or not, I don't drink coffee. After eliminating caffeine a few years ago in order to help keep my migraines at bay (see article here) I've taken to new techniques to boost my energy. Here are yoga poses that really work.
You guys know how much I love The Bar Method and I'm psyched to start the new year putting 100% into my classes. After all, summer bodies are made in the winter. Throughout my Bar Method Fitness Series, you'll find info on breathing for flatter abs, proper form and the importance of stretching for leaner muscles. Here, I sum it all up by giving you my top X reasons to become addicted.
Planking is hands down one of the best exercises you can do for your core, but it also strengthens and tones your back, glutes and shoulders. No matter what type of workout you're into, there's always room for a plank. During class at The Bar Method Hoboken, we do two planks and sometimes our teachers even sneak in a (much welcomed) third. Here, owners Melissa and Lucy share everything you need to know to make sure you're getting the most out of the exercise. From form to timing, we got you covered.
If you live in the Hoboken or NYC area, then you might be interested in a new yoga program I'm launching – a 4-week beginners series. Whether you're new to yoga and want to learn the postures before attending an open class or are already a practicing yogi and want to perfect your form, through private instruction you'll learn the classic postures and any modifications that'll support your movement. Email me to learn more.
As a hardcore yogi and #barrebabe, I understand the importance of stretching in order to look and feel my best, however I find many of my friends and readers tell me they skip it before or after working out. When it comes to The Bar Method, I appreciate that the class strategically fits stretching exercise in between the tucks and pulses to compliment the toning movements. I spoke with Founders of The Bar Method Hoboken, Lucy and Melissa, to find out just how important stretching is during a barre class and in life.
Since doing this fitness column about The Bar Method, a lot of you have been asking common questions about the class, so I thought I'd do a post to answer them. Founders of the Hoboken studio, Lucia Almeida-Oliveira and Melissa Opsahl took the time to fill me in. Here, find out how long it takes to begin noticing results, truths about muscle bulking and how to integrate the practice into your fitness routine.
Bar Method just celebrated their 16 year anniversary, but I've only been taking class (religiously) for two of them. During that short time, I've been inspired, made new friends and learned the technique that keeps my muscles lean and toned. The community alone at The Bar Method Hoboken is reason enough to go daily. Meet the ten teachers who encourage me to "get lower" and tuck with purpose.
Throughout my life, I've taken part in various workouts to keep myself fit. Dancing, cardio kickboxing, spinning, circuit training, yoga, pilates and of course, barre classes were always in the rotation. There was even a point in time where I obsessed over P90X videos in my own living room. Since moving to Hoboken, I've been dedicated to yoga and barre classes and find that they work best for my body type. In Bar Method classes, we don't sweat, we glisten, but the fine-detail toning is thanks to isometric movements. Here's how it works. Bye-bye burpees!
