They just “Get It”

Although I just turned 30, but my joints feel older. Home girl CANNOT exercise on hardwood floors. Just NO. Some barre classes cover the floor with a pretty new carpet, minus one thing: the padding. Ladies and gents, the carpet at the Bar Method is “hella” padded. And for this, I’ll be forever grateful. For those of you with tender wrists, or delicate knees, I can assure you that you’ll be comfortable throughout pushups and while kneeling at the bar. Lastly, feet are weird. Socks that cover your entire foot are required to take class. Thanks for nipping that in the butt!

Targets All Muscle Groups

I like to say that my muscles are always confused. Just when I think I’m used to the exercise sequence, I’m sore the next day. Simply put, one does not plateau from The Bar Method. Rather, the more familiar you become with the exercises, the better your form gets. I wish I had a picture of old me attempting fold-over (five years ago) versus now. Or maybe I don’t! Regardless, it is precisely the reason students of TBM all have that coveted “bar bod.” Strong arms, rock hard abs, and a lifted seat – check!

Instructors are Rigorously Trained

The instructors have to earn the right to teach. There is no such thing as a “weekend certification” program at The Bar Method. It is only after three to six months of anatomy tests, hands-on adjustments, evaluations, etc., that they are given the green light to lead their first class. It sounds strict but it’s all for the clients’ benefit. And whether or not there is a section in the official Bar Method instructor handbook, they all have a special ability to learn names freakishly fast. No joke, five minutes into the workout and they know the class roster up and down. This personalized instruction guarantees a safe and effective workout at an individual basis.

Strengthens Mind-body Connection

I am not a very spiritual person. I have never experienced a moment of “zen.” I’m way too hyper to meditate, but The Bar Method has singlehandedly strengthened my mind-body connection. It is here where I retreat to, to let go of all the stressors and workday chaos. In fact, some of my most inspiring blog posts have “come to me” right in the middle of my workout. If that is not a good enough reason to take class every day, I don’t know what is!

Alleviates Joint Pain

Five years ago I was relying too much on Aleve. My knee pain was consistently bad. I guess that’s what happens when you play field hockey competitively most of your life. Aside from the health repercussions of taking NSAIDs regularly, I was fed up with feeling physically restricted. After several months of attending class three to five times per week, my knee pain SIGNIFICANTLY improved. Fast forward to 2018 and my knee pain is 90% better. My insurance company should probably be reimbursing me for my monthly membership fee! It is no secret that TBM exercises work to strengthen the muscles around your joints, and I’m a walking testimonial as to how advantageous this can be.

In case it was not obvious enough, I genuinely look forward to taking class at the Marina Studio Monday-Friday. In fact, my body craves it. To me, The Bar Method is so much more than a full body workout – it is a lifestyle. Here I am at the start of 2018, and I am the strongest version of myself. For that I give kudos to TBM! If you want to become the most fit version of yourself, click here to find one of the 114 studios across the US near you. But don’t forget to take advantage of the new client special! For a limited time only, RECEIVE TWO WEEKS FREE when you sign up for an introductory offer! Click here for the details. San Francisco marina chicks, join me at The Bar Method Marina for six weeks of unlimited classes for a whopping $49. What else can you get for less than $50?! One salad at Blue Barn costs $25…race you there!

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Striped Pants c/o K-DEER | Tank (similar) | Sneakers (similar)

The post 5 Reasons I Love The Bar Method appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

A few months ago I was introduced to the online store Carbon38, at a blogger event hosted by Nichole Ciotti of the Vanilla Extract blog. It is here where “fit chicks” dreams come true! Carbon38 fabulously showcases all of your favorite activewear brands and styles in one place. Whether you shop by trend, sport, or designer you will not leave this site with an empty “gym bag.”

Inspired by a Latin American textile, the Serape Performance Capris by Terez are dreamy. Constructed out of a polyester and spandex blend, these crop pants are perfect for the barre, spin, bootcamp, and everything in between. The elasticized waist features a slimming waistband while the compression fit smooths your imperfections. More importantly, these capris pass the slouch test. There is nothing more distracting than having to adjust your garb during an intense workout. I am happy to report these capris do not slouch, bag, or move when in motion.

With a lot going on below the waist, I styled this exercise look with a solid tank. The “Workout Racerback,” by Lucy, has become my favorite top – this is a significant development as I was sold on the Cool Racerback for the last several years. I currently own black and blue, but hope to add a couple more into my Bar Method uniform rotation. I love the flat seams and long shirt tail – extra back coverage is essential when wearing hot pants like these. Finally, I gave my new Nike sneakers a test run. Hopefully I did not blind any tourists!

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Along with water, shelter, and food, exercise is another essential item in my life. I typically spend an hour per day at “the bar” getting my daily dose of exercise induced endorphins. With the spring season, however, comes 5K and 10K road races and my hubby has us lined up for one at the end of the month. I’ll be swapping out the barre clothes for jogging clothes at least twice a week, beginning with this MinkPink tracksuit.

I was immediately attracted to the print as it reminded me of a gorgeous Free People dress. The top is great because it provides enough support for a jog minus the suffocating effect. I am very picky when it comes to sports bras and normally only feel comfortable in the Free To Be bra. The length is slightly longer than a standard sports bra, providing a little bit more coverage (score!). On a brisk day, I plan to wear a mesh shirt, like this, over the bra top for added warmth.

The pants are my favorite 3/4 length leggings, hitting just below the knee. Rock these moisture wicking pants on the running trail, spin class, or at bootcamp. When you’re in between home and the studio, conveniently store your goods in the zip back pocket. I styled this ensemble with black Nike sneakers and an iridescent S’well water bottle (last mentioned here). If you have yet to purchase a pair of trendy sneaks, it is not too late to ride the “athleisure” style bandwagon.

If you have any trendy activewear recommendations, I would love to hear them! A special thanks to Rode’o Boutique for sponsoring this post and to Ava Trimble for capturing the moment.

The post Tracksuit for the Modern Day Fashionista appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

When it comes to workout pants, I prefer the capri length. For hot-natured folks like myself, full length leggings can become uncomfortably warm. The JOJO Capris hit mid calf (keep in mind I am 5 feet tall), making them a great option for barre class, spin, and everything in between. Versatility in workout attire is key, as it is a superfluous purchase.

If you like your workout pants to fit you like second skin, you’re in luck with Dona Jo fit wear. Not too loose, or too tight, the quick-dry 5-way stretch fabric hugs your curves just right, while the mid rise waist keeps your goods in place. They are just as comfortable as they are attractive and the colorful designs speak for themselves.

I paired these poppin’ pants with the softest black racerback from Lucy. The Workout Racerback is a beloved basic and features a shirt tail hem for added back coverage. I polished off the look with my favorite Nike walking sneakers, aviator sunglasses, and Klean Kanteen water bottle. Is Dona Jo activewear in your future?!

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I am extraordinarily picky when it comes to workout attire. The last thing I want to do is worry about my garb in the heat of the moment. Knowing that about myself, I keep the following factors in mind while reviewing activewear: does the garment stay in place, is the garment suitable for a variety of physical activities, and could I wear this to and fro? I am happy to report the Kaley Stripe capri by K-DEER exceeded my expectations. Once I slipped on these hot pants, they did not move until it was time to hit the shower. I attribute this to the ultra high waist and super stretchy construction. Whether you are at the barre, on the bike, or at bootcamp, K-DEER has you covered (literally and figuratively).

For Sunday Funday at the barre, I styled these K-DEER ombre pants with my favorite black top – the “Cool Racerback” by lululemon. I added a pop of color with the “Free to Be Wild” sports bra, and completed the look with black Nike sneakers. With a polished ensemble like this, you are all set to go from the barre to the bar. Race you there!

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Pants | Top | Bra | Sneakers | Sunnies c/o Current Clothing

The post K-DEER Ombre Pants: From the Barre to the Bar appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.