5 reasons why I love teaching Barre

I’ve been teaching dance for over 15 years and I truly love it. There’s nothing like a packed class with good music and high energy! I also love witnessing my students’ joy while dancing, getting lost in the music and the rhythm. I never thought I’d teach any other kind of class until I started teaching Barre. I’ve been teaching Barre for almost a year now and though it is more fitness-focused than a dance class, the excitement I get from teaching it is just the same.

Below, I’ve listed the top 5 reasons why I love teaching Barre!

1. The music

Being a Barre instructor, similar to a dance teacher, is like being a bonafide DJ. Barre allows me to create a weekly playlist, specifically tailored for the different class sections (e.g.,core, thighs). From Travis Scott to Klyne, Davido to Fleetwood Mac, Konshens to Beyonce and everything in between, my class feels like a dance party. And that’s intentional. A good playlist compliments the class helping you breeze through the challenging exercises all the while maintaining your attention.

2. The people

I love my students. Truly. Everyone in my class works so hard and I feel privileged to  be able to encourage them week after week. In addition, I am forever grateful to be apart of my students’ weekend routine, helping them to meet their fitness goals in a way that is fun and safe for their bodies.

3. The familiarity

As a dancer, Barre is very reminiscent of my dance days at the ballet barre with the grand pliés, demi pliés, arabesques and attitudes. I feel comfortable with the moves, and I love that I can match them to the rhythm of the music.

4. The endless possibilities

I am amazed at how many exercise variations exist for a given body part! Like most teachers, I have my favorite exercises but I always try to introduce new  moves every week. It’s a good way for me to keep people on their toes, challenge them and keep the class interesting, especially for the students that come on a weekly basis.

5. The blend

As a physical therapist, I now incorporate traditional physical therapy moves and I truly believe that it puts a unique spin on my class. I can see my students becoming stronger and more stable. I also think it’s a great way to prevent injuries, keeping my students in tip top shape!