onzie bra/ top/ similar leggings (most comfortable workout clothes!)
Finally, a long overdue post on my fitness routine and what works best for my body. Everyone is different and it takes time to figure out what makes you look and feel your best. Tennis was my sport of choice growing up and into college, while long distance running is a workout I loathe. What’s important is finding a workout that you genuinely enjoy and are excited to knock out each day.
Pure Barre was the workout that got me hooked. I know there are plenty of people that think barre isn’t a tough workout, but those small repetitive movements will kick your butt in gear without having to push yourself to the limit in a class like Orange Theory. I stopped cardio classes for my first month of Pure Barre so I could really see how it affected my body and muscles. After that month I was longer, leaner and was toned in spots that I hadn’t been before. In other words, I drank the barre koolaid and aim to be in class 4-5 days a week.
I also add in a side of hot yoga at Core Power Yoga, but will be the first to admit there’s a million other places I’d rather be on an Atlanta summer day than a 103 degree room for yoga class. Like no thanks. However, these hour classes are the perfect time for me to disconnect and sweat it all out. Any work stress, a never ending to-do list and all other responsibilites are put on hold during that time and I just get to focus on myself.
Walking is an easy (and free!) workout that I wish I could fit in more often. On day’s that I’ve been tethered to my desk with work emails and calls I set aside at least 30 minutes, grab Oliver and head out the door. There’s no better motivator than a puppy that has energy to burn off! Once the weather warms up I’m aiming to start a few days a week with a walk to jumpstart my mind and body.
Favorite online workouts:
- The Tone It Up Girls have great workouts that you can do at home with minimal equipment. I’ve really been liking this workout lately and this routine is one of my favorites.
- Throw it back old school style with 8 minute abs. I know, it looks super dated, but it still gets those abs toned and everyone can set aside 8 minutes a day.
- I try to mix up workouts, especially when traveling, and often switch between ones on my fitness board.
I’m always looking for great new workouts to try and would love to hear what each of you love! Next week I’ll be sharing 3 of my favorite recipes for each meal!
xx
My workout routine is struggling, as in non existent! I really need to get back into it, thanks for the motivation! And yes, I can think of 100 different places I’d rather be than in a hot yoga class during the summer!!
Xoxo,
Whitney & Blaire
Peaches In A Pod
I love hot yoga.. I also make sure to make it to running club once a week as well. Those pants are so fun!
Christina :: Simple and Delish
Never tried hot yoga… I’m too scared! My go-to is spin class, kicks my butt and the music pumps me up and makes the time pass quickly. Also, walking is my very favorite. My doggy agrees!
I’m trying to do the same with walking! I really wish I had the motivation every morning to grab my coffee and Hasell and get outside first thing. Maybe if I know you’re doing it too!! <3
I also love everything from Spin to Barre. But my favorite has to be strength training (like Barry’s!) because I feel so strong when I walk out. I can see myself improving every week, and being able to do more reps or a higher weight. Side note: love your leggings!! so fun!
I’m with you on barre class. I had a membership to Pink Barre before my wedding and it was easy enough to take during my lunch break- a quick wipe down in the bathroom with a cleansing wipe and I didn’t feel like I needed a shower! My husband said “if you’re not sweating, you’re not working”… but having taken a break and going back just this morning, I can tell how strong my muscles became! I can’t wait to start again in March when my membership re-ups!
I am such a believer in barre too! I went from running 40-50 miles a week, so doing barre 3-4 times and week and saw significant changes. Have you tried any other barre studios? I’m really loving Core Barre Fusion at Exhale.
I just tried my first Core Power Yoga class and nearly died, but I agree, it was an awesome workout 🙂
barre really is a great workout. when i was doing it, my arms toned up super fast. and oh my ass hurt all the time, ha!
Love this! Barre has always been a favorite of mine but they have really limited classes where I am. Just got back into spin and a x-fit type workout called Mayhem. Totally going to check out those videos too!
I love walking, probably considered one of the more lazy activities, but it’s something all of (husband and child) can do easily and not stress about pace. I do try to some running too.
I hear so much about pure barre I really need to try this out!
liz @ j for joiner
I’m a Pure Barre addict too. I just love the classes and it really has helped me get more fit and toned. My favorite part is that it’s low-impact, so I’m not injuring myself like I used to when I did a lot of HIIT exercises.
I love Barre! I am not a fan of strength training because I just get so bored and I feel like I get very similar results and enjoy myself so much more with barre. I was trying to find hot yoga when we were in Atlanta, I didn’t realize they had Core Power down there!
Love those leggings! And TIU workouts are my favorite!
I have been hearing so much about Barre work outs. I need to find a class near by to try out!
Barre is my absolute favorite. But I definitely want to get more walking in, especially when the weather gets nicer!
Zelle
Southern Style
Love this!! Thank you so much for sharing!! 🙂
Love that we have the same fitness routine! 🙂 I got hooked on Pure Barre a couple of years ago and I haven’t found anything since that gets me into shape – quickly. Totally agree with your stance on corepower when it’s hot outside…I’m a total fan for the mental break or a change in pace when it’s cold outside but the second it’s over 60 I’m out!
xoxo,
Jen
http://www.comfortably-chic.com
I’m so glad to know what workouts work for you – we are about to switch gyms, and I can’t wait to get back into yoga.