Move to be moved with ballet fitness

KUALA LUMPUR – In an era of rapid change where society expects new and exciting activities to emerge at every turn, the fitness industry is getting creative and expanding its horizons with unconventional zeal. 

The latest to open its doors is Barre-D, a fitness studio for those with long-held aspirations to become a ballerina or just seeking a new way to stay active.

Located in the heart of Damansara Heights, Barre-D strives to merge traditional ballet with elements of fitness by curating ballet fitness and barre classes.  

For many of us who have had dreams of becoming a ballerina, or even taking ballet classes, here’s your chance to make it a reality.  

Ballet may not be recognised as a sport, but the amount of hard work required is often overlooked.  

According to Alya, one of Barre-D’s inspired instructors, the feedback she often hears is along the lines of: ‘I never realised it was that tough, but I love it!’, ‘I didn’t think I would sweat that much’ or even, ‘… the burrnnn’. 

Ballet fitness has successfully brought to light the hardcore nature of ballet and the effort it takes to be graceful. 

Regardless of whether you are a frequent gym-goer or a fitness novice, ballet fitness is the perfect way to increase your mobility and range of movement — its well-arranged and choreographed sequences help prevent muscle imbalance. 

For those starting out on their fitness journey and want a slower pace, fret not as Barre-D has classes for beginners that focus on technique and posture to engage the appropriate muscle, thus allowing participants to grow stronger and progress pragmatically.

When asked what the most common misconception about ballet fitness is, Alya mentions that the general public assumes it’s purely for ladies.  

This comes as no surprise to us as ballet is often construed as a feminine art form, but just like dance, ballet fitness is not limited to gender. 

“If you guys wanna work those calf muscles effectively, come over, we’ll teach you how. Plus, you can also (learn how to) engage muscles you never knew existed.” 

As a former ballerina, Barre-D provides Alya a whole new way to share her knowledge and love for ballet with a completely new crowd.  

“I love that I see new faces more frequently compared to a ballet studio. I’m just glad there's a way to offer opportunities to those with a shared interest; an opportunity to move in a different way and to be able to benefit from the workout that naturally comes from it.”  

With lovely instructors to guide you every step of the way, ballet fitness is definitely a fun new way to get moving and to be moved. 

Don’t be afraid to try it out. Hope to see you soon! – The Vibes, December 10, 2020