Welcome to Grin and Barre It

What is Barre?

Barre is a form of exercise which utilizes classic ballet movements in a dynamic way, to target all the major and minor muscle groups in the body. By strengthening these muscles in a highly intentional way, one can attain lean muscle tone, increased flexibility, and greater range of motion. All this is achieved without straining one’s body with heavy weights or extreme cardio. Any of the barre movements can be modified for people who have injuries, or who are experiencing weakness in their joints and muscles. This exercise is therefore ideal for anyone at any age and any physical capacity.

What do I need to get started?

All you really need is an exercise mat (yoga mat or a beach towel), some light weights (you can use canned beans or water bottles), and a secure surface to help support you, such as a ballet barre, the back of the chair, a kitchen counter, etc. It is ideal for this support to be waist-height.

Soft Surface

Light Weights

Waist High Secure Surface

How did I get started?

I’m Joanna Morrissey, owner of Grin and Barre it. I first discovered Barre a year after having my first child. My joints were extremely weak and painful. I had gone from being highly active, to barely being able to get off the floor without extreme pain. A Physical Therapist diagnosed me with post-partum arthritis and told me I’d never be able to exercise like I did before I was a mom. I tried barre, just because some of my friends kept asking me to come with them to a class. After one class, I felt a positive change. After two weeks, my joints were stronger and I was experiencing less pain. After 6 months, I was able to start running, kickboxing, weight-lifting, and doing spin classes again. Barre changed my life for the better, and I hope to help others discover that same change.