new workout obsession: barre classes

Thanks to a LivingSocial deal for Barre Bee Fit, I was prompted to try out the new barre fitness studio here in Indy (or Fishers, rather). I've heard all the wonderful things about these workout classes, so to say I was excited was an understatement. 

At Barre Bee Fit, they offer group fitness classes that provide intensive cardiovascular conditioning, toning and restoration all in one. 

I've been to one class so far - Interval Barre - and already am ready to go back to try another one. Interval Barre was 60 minutes long, and this particular class focused on "abs and seat." The two toning sessions (aka abs and seat) were enclosed with high-intensity cardio intervals.

I'm sure we looked silly at times doing some of the exercises, BUT I'm serious people... this is really good stuff! Depending on the class, you use a variety of "props" (weights, bands, balls and more) to complete certain exercises. 

I've already registered for two more different classes - Barre Burn (Hot) and the class Barre Bee classes - and certainly intrigued by all the options!

Have you tried barre fitness classes? Have a favorite class? 

high-tech health

I've worked a desk job for more than three years now and it's starting to take a toll on my body. My activity level can sometimes hit rock bottom if I can't make it to the gym at some point during the day. I figured it was time to find something to help me track progress and also motivate to stay on track. Thanks to a recommendation from my friend, I'm a proud new owner of a high-tech gadget called the Fitbit One! 

Sitting on my butt all day long just ain't cutting it anymore. Mainly, the Fitbit is a pedometer. However, it does so much more than that to compliment it. It tracks steps, flights of stairs climbed, distance you've moved (in miles), calories burned and sleep patterns. 

Fitbit also has a mobile app, iPad app and online dashboard to help you set goals and track progress. It gives you to capability to input your daily intake of calories.

My daily step goal is 10,000. I'm only a few days in, but I've exceeded that twice already. It's clear that unless I'm getting some sort of workout or dogwalk in, I just won't make my goal. 

I used my first day with my Fitbit to find out about what I get on days I don't get to the gym. Talk about harsh realty! My first day, I was just less than 5,500 - barely over half my daily step goal. Another day where I went to the gym, I easily reached my goal with a whopping 10,600 steps. 

I can already feel myself wanting to move more and am also making strides to ensure I do so. Tomorrow, I embark on pre-work workouts. YIKES! I'm sure 6 a.m. on the treadmill will be a great thing, but I'm pretty sure it'll take me a bit to get into the swing of things. I know I am more than capable, though, given my years of early morning swim practices. I just have to stay motivated.

Wish me - and my Fitbit One - luck! ;)

*I ordered mine on Amazon.com!