Commentary by Heather Kestian
For those of you keeping score at home, over the past 19 months, I have lost 80 pounds by eating better and exercising. It was not always the easiest road because deciding to get out of bed at 5 a.m. to work out is not my forte, but I do it on occasion. I am more of a midday or evening workout kind of gal, as I really appreciate sleep.
I have managed to keep the weight off, but at the end of the summer in 2013, things got stagnant. I had hit the dreaded weight loss plateau. I had no idea how to plow through this desert. That was until Groupon brought Barre Bee Fit into my life. I had no idea what barre classes were, but I was willing to try something new to get things moving again.
At my first class, I thought two things. First, what does “strong that body!” mean? Second, during the first set of repetitions, these incredibly small movements are not that challenging. After approximately 11 minutes of the class, I could answer the first question. I could feel how weak I was. I could also feel that this workout had an excellent chance to build my strength.
About a hot second after my epiphany, I realized I might not be able to walk, or crawl, for at least three days. I was hooked. I almost cried, mostly due to pain, but also because I found something to push me through my fitness plateau.
The mix of the ballet barre with awesome choreography and outstanding classroom instructors created results that I could see within weeks of beginning. In short, I have never been stronger. The Barre Bee Fit program combines small isometric and lightweight strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and feel-good stretching techniques. My favorite class adds in a heated room, which makes my Saturday mornings super sweaty and amazing!
I now consider myself a Bee because I have never felt better or stronger. If you are looking for something to get you through the cold winter days (be sure to try the hot classes — but “bee” ready — it is warm!) and push you past your limits, head over to the Barre. I have taken a few friends, or new-Bees, and they are hooked, too. You will be challenged and you may find a renewed, stronger you. Who needs New Year’s resolutions anyway? It is always a perfect time to be good to yourself!