Client Spotlight-Two Amazing Strong Moms
What does it mean to be a mom? Anyone who takes care, raise, guide and love another being unconditionally. A “mom” is strong, so strong; she is powerful; she is influential; she is guiding. She is anyone who has these traits so even if you don’t have “child” maybe it’s a pet, perhaps a sibling, a friend you care for, you are a mom and all of us women, know how amazing you are at what you do; balancing everything life throws at you. But today, I am thrilled to spotlight two moms; Michelle and June. They are already mothers, friends, neighbors and beautiful strong women. They have amazing careers, beautiful hearts and are some of the strongest women I know. I am spotlighting them because although they have so much going on as mothers to their own children, to their patients and friends, they know that in order to be able to spill their hearts into another being, they must dedicate time to themselves and to their health. For 9 months, they committed time to take care of themselves so that when a baby is born, they could devote their energy to a new being. Read about their barre journey here during pregnancy. From the bottom of our hearts, we love you both and want to share our barre love with you and your family now and always.
When did you first start coming to Barre + Beyond ( Mind Over Matter Method Barre Classes)?
Michelle; “I started in May 2018-after the fashion show.”
June; “I started classes in June 2016. The studio had just moved to its new location just down the street from me, and I was early in my first pregnancy. I had been using barre workout videos for several years, but I had never taken a live class before. I was SO excited that a barre studio had opened close by!”
What got you “hooked” on Mind Over Matter Method Classes?
Michelle; “I really like the variety of classes and instructors’ cues-I never felt lost or like I didn’t belong in the class. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. I loved feeling stronger and seeing pretty rapid changes. I think barre helped me stay injury free during my half-marathon training.”
June; “I love how the classes make me feel! I always walk out of class feeling toned and with more energy. I also love my barre family! The instructors and other clients are always smiling, supportive, and full of positivity.”
How have our classes impacted your pregnancy?
Michelle; “I have felt stronger and more energized-I haven’t had any back or hip pain since I’ve been taking barre classes. I do think having a stronger core helped me maintain a better posture which helps everything. And I felt like my attitude was better from the positive vibes.”
June; “Barre classes have helped me maintain a positive body image during my pregnancy. I am able to continue feeling strong and toned. They’ve also kept my energy levels up!”
How often do you take class during your pregnancy?
Michelle; “Usually 3 times a week, more if my schedule allowed.”
June: “As often as I can! I aim for 3-4 times per week.”
Did you exercise during your other pregnancies? How has Barre helped you this time around?
Michelle; I have run through all of my pregnancies and taken the occasional fitness cardio class. I think the stretching and strength components of barre kept me happier with less pregnancy discomforts. I feel like I didn’t lose strength or muscle tone this time around!
June; “I did Barre during my first pregnancy, and I felt like I bounced back pretty quickly because of it!”
Do you have any goals set for yourself in class?
Michelle; “I wanted to work to the level I was at – to push myself when I needed and to take modifications when necessary. I also really wanted to work out right up until my due date. AND I wanted to be able to hold a side plank forever.”
June: “I always try to push myself in class to the point of “shakes=it’s working!” and I try to monitor my form.”
What would you tell someone that is hesitant to come to Barre + Beyond during pregnancy?
Michelle; “Just try it out! It’s fun and feels good (both mentally and physically). All the instructors are super helpful in offering modifications without making you feel singled out and lots of people modify. It is a very supportive environment. It is a place where you really feel like you belong.”
June: “Don’t hesitate, get in there! There are so many modifications or alternatives you can try during class if something doesn’t feel right. Barre + Beyond is a no-judgment zone, so you’ll never feel out-of-place. The instructors are great about helping navigate the dos and don’ts of exercise during pregnancy.”
Thank you for sharing your barre journey here with us!
Orlee