Ballet Barre Myths

There are lots of myths and misconceptions that have been going around about ballet barre, Carly Bateman (@barrebybates) has been teaching ballet barre classes since 2016 and has shared her truths on the benefits of this fantastic workout. Keep reading to find out more...

Ballet Barre fitness is becoming SO much more popular across the UK now and we are SO here for it! It is the perfect low impact, high intensity workout that will leave you feeling strong, empowered, energised and balanced.

I have been a ballet  barre instructor since 2016 and let me tell you, there’s a few weird myths going around about ballet barre that I’m here to BUST.

'Barre is for dancers'

NOPE. Barre is for EVERYONE. Barre does take inspiration from ballet of course however the movements are simple, repetitive and accessible. Barre is absolutely not a ‘dancers only’ club and you don’t need any dance experience to do it.

'Barre is easy'

Low impact does not mean low intensity! Barre gives you a muscle burn like no other workout and you will leave class feeling thoroughly WORKED. It is good to note that there’s always modifications and advancements offered, giving you the autonomy to either push it or ease off where you need to.

'You need to be flexible'

Barre will increase your flexibility for sure, but you don’t have to be flexible to start. You start with your range of motion and it will gradually increase over time.

'Barre is only for women'

Hell no! Barre is a class for all and all genders will benefit from the discipline.

'Barre is the same as pilates'

They’re very different! Barre is a lot faster paced and usually done to the beat of the music, that’s what I love about it. There’s nothing like combining movement and music to give you that energy lift! Barre also incorporates the ballet barre which pilates doesn’t. I do love both disciplines but if I had to pick, it would be barre every time.

'Barre doesn’t get results'

If you know me, you’ll know I try and stay away from talking about aesthetics when it comes to my teaching. Not because aesthetic results aren’t achieved, I’ve just had a past on focusing too heavily on that and it’s been my biggest downfall mentally and physically.

Barre absolutely does get aesthetic results, I have seen countless clients achieve their desired body goals through barre, myself included.

'You NEED a barre'

Studio classes will typically use the barre but you can get the same feel at home using a chair, kitchen counter or any other sturdy surface! I also do a lot of online ‘floor barre’ which is mat based, giving you the same burn and vibe just without the physical barre element.

'Barre is for the younger generation'

Just like barre is for all genders, it’s for all ages too! I have taught teenagers all the way up to clients in their 60s and they SLAY. So much of barre is personal to you and your body. One of my favourite phrases I repeat in class is ‘Your body, your choice’. You know your body more than I ever will so push it where you can and ease off/take breaks where you need to.

I hope that clears a few things up! The best thing to do if you’re curious about barre is come try a class. I teach at BLOK Manchester, RESET by Form, Ryde Studios Leeds and also plan on dropping some more online offerings this year!

Maybe meet you at the barre soon!

For more information on dance fitness take a look at the Saskia's Summer Ballet Core Workout blog or 5 Pilates Exercises To Strengthen Your Back & Improve Your Arabesque

We’ve got lots of dancewear to help you feel empowered and perform at your best. Find lovely dance leotards, dance shoes and dance costumes.

08/04/24