HOW THE BAR METHOD RESHAPES THE BODY

1. How does the Bar Method reshape the body?
The Bar Method’s intense strengthening workout changes the body in three ways: first, it systematically shapes and elongates each major muscle group. Second, it burns away fat around these muscles. And third it stretches our most chronically tight muscles, namely those around the hips and lower back (that get that way in part from hours of sitting and driving). The result is a striking, clearly visible change in appearance. Muscles look longer and more defined, the body becomes leaner and more slender, and the frame becomes straighter and more graceful.

6. How often should I do the Bar Method workout?
Research shows that exercise yields the best benefits when performed three-to-five times a week. So to get good results from the Bar Method, or from any strengthening system, you need to do one workout about three times a week (as opposed to doing three kinds of different workouts one day a week.) Of course you can add as much other activity as you wish (ideally forms of exercise you enjoy), but stick to your 3-5 times a week for basic conditioning!

7. What do you do in a Bar Method workout?
After a simple warm-up to get the heart rate going and the muscles warm, students work the upper body with free weights or push-ups. Next comes intense exercises performed while holding onto a bar, chair or ledge. This challenging standing section works the thighs, seat and hamstrings by isolating these muscles, then contracting or stretching them in controlled moves performed to music. The Bar Method’s workout continues with floor exercises for the abdominals and gluteals and concludes with a relaxing series of back and leg stretches.

8. Where can you take a Bar Method class?
West Los Angeles: 1950 S. Sawtelle Blvd, 310-481-0005;
West Hollywood: 8416 West Third St. 323-651-2226