Bending the Barre

The equipment used for barre class at Moksha Yoga’s Donald location.

It’s safe to say that the phenomenon of barre has taking over the fitness guru’s world. Barre is probably the best workout that I have done in a very long time. Barre is a mix between ballet, pilates and strength training. The class has you doing exercise on your mat, using the ballet bar and also using different weights and equipment. Unlike just going to the gym or going for a run, barre tests your entire body and pushes you to your limit. The class is only an hour long and by the end of the hour you are left walking down the stairs quivering cause your legs are so sore.

Having an instructor teach the class also adds for an extra motivator. I have been to exercise classes before and I never found the instructor to be beneficial to enhancing my workout but at Moksha the instructors really make a difference in what you take away from the class. Moksha has three locations in the city, 1090 Waverley Street, 2 Donald Street, and 1615 Regent Avenue West. The classes are fairly expensive in price, but well worth every dollar that you will spend.

Another thing that I like about the studio that the barre class is held in is the fact that they provide you with the necessary equipment needed to complete the class. The only things you have to bring is a yoga mat and water bottle, the normal necessities that you would bring to one of their hot yoga classes.

Though at times the workout can be a bit intense, you are always encouraged to modify at points when you need. There is also music on throughout the class which is something I really liked. Whenever I am going for a run, or at the gym I blast music to get me pumped up and motivated throughout the entire duration of my workout.

All in all, if you are searching for a way to elevate your workout I would highly recommend adding a barre class from Moksha Yoga to your weekly routine… it’ll kick your butt into shape and leave the rest of your body feeling toned.

Joining the Cliffhangers

I was always so skeptical of protein bars. I never really thought that they would give any benefit to your body…. but ive come to change my stance on the subject. A friend of mine took Cliff bars with her on your trip in the spring and everyday she would rave about them, so I decided to give them a try.

The flavours are delicious, and unlike protein bars that I have tried in the past you dont get that chalky taste in your mouth. For those that workout, this is a great pre or post workout snack, and for those looking for something filling to grab when your in a rush in the mornings also a great option.

I went and grabbed a box from Costco and I have to say that Cliff bars have become a part of my daily routine now. I guess you could say I’m joining all the cliffhangers and jumping onto this trend.

So next time your looking for a good protein bar, try a Cliff bar.. You will not be dissapointed!

“We make time for the things we want to make time for”

Life gets busy. It’s a fact.

Juggling work, school, a job, and a social life becomes a task in itself. I think the biggest mistake that so many people make is not taking the time to fit exercising into their schedule. I remember when I graduated from high school all my older friends had warned me of the “Freshman 15” I laughed reluctantly as they said that, but now, four years later I see exactly what she was talking about. But for myself, I feel the fittest and healthiest that I have been in years. I’ve realized the key is putting the time in to maintain your health.

It’s no mystery that gym memberships are expensive, but personally I would prefer to run outside rather than on a treadmill any day. There are so many new paths all over the city that are perfect for a run. If running on pavement is too hard on your knees then a simple stroll will do. Get out and enjoy the opportunity for exercise that is right outside your front door.

My favourite path in the city: The new paved path on Kenaston from McGillivray out to the new development of South Pointe.

Excuses will always be excuses. But you should never be making an excuse for staying healthy. Go outside this week and walk or run. The fresh air will do wonders for your mind and gives you an hour to escape all of the other hectic aspects of your life.

If you make the time to exercise you will see a healthier, enough excuses… get out there!