Meet Emily: Our Barre-Loving Powerhouse
Balancing a demanding career in corporate responsibility with life as a mum to 12-year-old Zack (and cat Charlie!), Emily is the queen of staying organised and making time for what matters. A long-time member of The Barre Coach Online Studio, she credits Barre with helping her manage her health, stay energised, and feel confident both physically and mentally. Whether she’s squeezing in a quick class during the workday or tackling a challenge, she loves the variety, structure, and sense of achievement Barre brings to her life. Here's everything she had to say about her experience with us so far - I'm sure you will find it as inspiring as I did!
1. Tell us a little about yourself! What’s your daily life like?
I’m 45 years old, I’ve been married to Paul for 13 years, I have a 12 year old son called Zack, and a three year old cat called Charlie. I’m a Director at a large global Professional Services Consultancy, and I specialise in corporate responsibility and all the Environmental, social and governance factors that help an Organisation balance profit and purpose. I frequently travel for work so I’ve always got my barre bands in my bag and have mastered the hotel workout! I love to go walking and try to squeeze in a 5 mile walk everyday, combined with Barre it really helps keep my head clear and positive. My day begins early with getting Zack to school and then if I’m not travelling I get my walk done before my working day starts and then it’s into meetings and work productivity. I love lists, being organised, and structured. I don’t like shocks and surprises, a surprise party is the worse thing ever for me!
2. What made you decide to try Barre, and how did you find The Barre Coach?
I found out about The Barre Coach on Instagram and signed up straight away (over four years ago!). I was already committed to walking, running and doing strength sessions but wanted to do something new. I get bored easily so the variety Barre offers hits the spot for me! I have a health condition called Lupus so exercise, eating well and keeping stress to a minimum is very important. Barre genuinely helps me to stay fit and well medically. I’m also in perimenopause and feel very anxious amongst other symptoms and Barre helps me manage those symptoms too.
3. How do Barre classes fit into your weekly routine and how do you stay motivated?
I try and fit Barre into my day rather than my evening because it’s a brilliant excuse to breakaway from my desk, but if it has to be evening so be it. It’s programmed into my schedule whatever that looks like! I’m an all or nothing person, so when I’m committed that’s it. I do five classes a week on average, and love the challenges Gen puts on, to add a bit of spice and change. It’s honestly just part of my routine now and I look forward to every single class. I love the App and being able to plan my week and find a variety of classes to suit my needs makes it focused and achievable.
4. What’s been the biggest change you’ve noticed since starting Barre?
I’m much more supple and stretchy. I love how much core control I have now, and how well I know my body in a class. I feel energised after a class so I try to time the class to suit when I know my energy levels dip or I need a boost. At my annual health check my doctor was very impressed with my balance and bone health. And most of all I can’t believe I manage to do some of the moves we tackle in the class, the sense of achievement is everything to me and is a confidence boost.
5. Do you have a favourite class or type of workout?
45 minute intermediate barre, weights and looped band my absolute fave equipment. I love the classic Barre moves. Dislike repetitive HIIT (no repeats is the one for me!) and struggle with on all four work but have learned how to get comfortable with it. Click here to try Emily’s favourite workout style.
6. What’s your workout “must-have” (favourite leggings, playlist, or post-class snack)?
Varley free soft high rise legging 25! For a cheaper but brilliant alternative opt for Adanola ultimate leggings. Shop the best Varley leggings.
7. What would you say to someone thinking about joining The Barre Coach?
Do it for you. Put that oxygen mask on first so you are the best version of you for yourself and those around you. Consciously work out when and how you can fit it into your plans on any given day. Without being patronising there are 24 hours in a day, there is always time for a 20/30 or even a 45 minute Barre session and you will feel fabulous afterwards! The community is so friendly, Gen is the most incredible teacher and the App is your motivator and organiser alongside you all the time.
8. What’s one podcast episode you’d recommend to The Barre Coach gang?
Hard to pin point one (I listen to a lot!) but I’d recommend Gaby Logan The Mid-Point, Elizabeth Day How to Fail and for lots of laughs Dish with Angela Hartnett and Nick Grimshaw. Listen to the latest pods.