Worried your New Year’s workout resolution might fizzle before February? Fret not, busy moms – the ladies at The Barre Code Metro Detroit won’t let you fail.
With a newly opened studio in Rochester Hills and mother location in Birmingham (plus a sister studio under separate ownership in Ann Arbor), this fitness spot offers a convenient, empowering environment for women to get their sweat on. Originally Barre Bee Fit, The Barre Code, which began in Chicago, changed names in 2013 – right around when it first popped up in Michigan – and centers on cardio, strength and “restoration.”
It strives to live by the mantra posted on the center’s wall. “It’s about being your best self, your strongest self and being comfortable with who you are and the skin that you are in,” says co-owner and instructor Lindsay Irrer.
TBC offers a variety of classes designed to target the entire body and keep you from getting bored. Among these is Brawl, a cardio kickboxing class with lower-body strengthening work; Burn, a full-body workout in a 95-degree room, and Baryasa, a vinyasa yoga-inspired offering. “I think that finding a gym for a woman to go to is about finding something that they like to do,” Irrer, 25, adds.
The Barre Code is open to all ages. Kids ages 16 and up can come on their own; anyone under 16 must attend with a parent. Women who are pregnant may participate as long as it’s been cleared with their doctor. Beginning in January, childcare is available at Rochester Hills for $5/visit ($40/10 visits).
Workout Tips for New Moms
New baby at home? No problem. Aubrey Moon of Macomb Township, who handles client relations at the Rochester Hills location, had her son four months ago, but still finds the time to hit it at The Barre Code. How does the 26-year-old do it? We nabbed this new mom’s tips on how to get back in shape after baby.
Keep comfort in mind. “After pregnancy, there is a lot of pressure to lose the baby weight,” Moon says. “Do what makes you feel most comfortable as a new mom.”
Positivity is key. “Be conscious of what you are doing, and surround yourself with positive people that can help you reach your goals.”
Set realistic goals. “Don’t put numbers on it,” Moon recommends. Instead of trying to lose five pounds in two weeks, try doing three different workouts in two weeks.
Try something new. “Step out of your comfort zone. If there is something that you wouldn’t normally do, try it, because you don’t know the results you could have.”
Push yourself. “Be happy with what you are doing,” says Moon. “You are the only one that can really tell how you are feeling or what you really want out of something, so live up to your own expectations.”
Remember: “Just like pregnancy, bouncing back is different. Get help and try new things. There is always help to be found in the most random place.”
The Barre Code
Rochester Hills: 1260 Walton Blvd., 248-923-2392
Birmingham: 555 Old Woodward Ave., Suite 13L, 248-220-4062
Hours: Vary, daily
Costs: $180/12-pack of classes, $125/single month unlimited, $80/new client unlimited month, $80/five-pack, $18/single class, $8/first-time studio visit
Website: thebarrecode.com
