5 Common Myths About Barre Workouts Debunked

By Joie Goh

If you think that barre classes are only for certain people, think again!

Myth #1: Barre is only for women

While it can’t be denied that barre workouts are extremely popular with the ladies, men are absolutely welcome to join in the classes! After all, everyone can do with the benefits of a regular barre workout: better posture, stronger core, and improved strength and stamina.

Plus, the WeBarre Signature Multi-Level and WeBarre Fundamentals classes are full-body workouts that combine compound movements with controlled isolation exercises to target every muscle group. You’d be surprised by the challenge! Don’t take my word for it – here’s what our regular Kenneth has to say about his WeBarre journey!

Myth #2: You need to be flexible in order to do barre

Flexibility is not a pre-requisite – it’s a result. None of the moves commonly done in barre classes require Olympic-level flexibility. In fact, doing barre workouts regularly will increase your flexibility!

Stretching is an essential part of the WeBarre workout. After working each major muscle group, we stretch out the just-worked muscles to lengthen them and reduce soreness. Every workout also ends with a relaxing stretch and cool down sequence. You’ll find yourself bendier and less stiff in no time.

Myth #3: Barre is only useful for dancers

Yes, barre is indeed based on ballet technique and the classical conditioning exercises done by dancers. However, it is so much more than that. The WeBarre workout combines strength training, resistance training and Pilates to give everyone a well-rounded and extremely effective cross-training programme.

Barre doesn’t just improve stamina and strength, it can also help prevent injuries by strengthening key muscle groups like the core, glutes, hamstrings and calves. The WeBarre workout also challenges and improves your sense of balance and coordination, which are both extremely important for athletes. Runners, cyclists, weight lifters, swimmers and even martial artists will benefit from a regular barre workout.

Myth #4: Barre is not as effective as hitting the gym or going for a run

On the contrary, it might even be MORE effective than simply lifting weights or pounding the pavement! As mentioned before, a WeBarre workout challenges every major muscle group, working your way through your upper body, legs, glutes and core. It encourages you to focus on core engagement and balance, and also challenges your coordination and rhythm.

Plus, the WeBarre Signature Multi-Level class includes a 5-minute High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) section for that added cardio blast. Combine that with the after-burn effect of muscle toning and strengthening, and you’ve got one super efficient calorie-busting workout.

Myth #5: Older people cannot do barre

Tell that to our sassy grandmas at the barre! Ever so often, we get clients in their 50s and 60s out-plie-ing and out-passe-ing the younger ones (#lifegoals)! The WeBarre Fundamentals class is perfect for all ages as it’s slower-paced and very low impact while still delivering effective muscle toning. Also, with modifications and lower impact options, the WeBare Signature Multi-Level class is also safe for all age groups and clients working with any physical limitations or injuries.

In fact, as we age, it’s more important to exercise regularly. Studies have shown that exercising not only reduces joint pain, it also prevents mental decline. Plus, it’s fun and engaging. After all, age is only a number!

Convinced? Give the WeBarre workout a try! We recommend starting with a WeBarre Intro class (it’s complimentary!) and then jumping into your first WeBarre Fundamentals class to experience the burn.