Meet Nicola: our Barre babe in Paris

I’m so excited to introduce this month’s Member Spotlight, featuring the amazing Nicola! A beauty industry pro living in Paris with her husband Tino and their adorable daughter Blair, Nicola is the definition of strength and determination. From balancing family life to crushing barre workouts, she’s a true inspiration. Her journey with barre has kept her feeling strong, energized, and connected, no matter what life has thrown her way. You’re going to love reading Nicola’s story—her positivity and dedication will leave you feeling motivated to tackle whatever comes your way!

1.⁠ ⁠Tell us a little about yourself! What’s your daily life like?

I’m Nicola, 34 years old, and I work in the beauty industry. I live in Paris with my husband, Tino, and our almost 2-year-old daughter, Blair. We moved from London to Paris two and a half years ago for work, and it’s been an incredible adventure. 

My mornings begin with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked croissants wafting in from the boulangerie next door—a little daily reminder of why I love living here. I usually start my day with one of Gen’s on-demand barre sessions, while my daughter either enthusiastically tries to join in or adds an extra challenge by climbing all over me. Then it’s off to nursery and work before we reunite as a family in the evenings.

Weekends are for catching up with family and friends who come to visit us or exploring the city with pals in Paris. 

2.⁠ ⁠What made you decide to try Barre, and how did you find The Barre Coach?

I discovered barre during the COVID lockdown when my bestie, Philly, introduced me to Gen’s classes. It quickly became a highlight of my routine—joining the live sessions not only helped me stay active but also provided a sense of connection with like-minded people who valued both fitness and community during such a challenging time.

Years later, I’m still consistently doing Gen’s classes. I never rejoined the gym because her barre sessions are everything!

3.⁠ ⁠How do Barre classes fit into your weekly routine and how do you stay motivated?

I’m a morning girl through and through—I need to start my day with barre before even having a coffee. It sets the tone for the rest of my day, leaving me feeling energised and ready to go.

I stay motivated thanks to the daily app push notifications letting me know Gen has uploaded a new class, plus knowing I have a fab selection of workouts saved in my favourites. I also do a weekly virtual personal session with Gen, which keeps me accountable and helps me stay focused on my goals. She’s amazing at tailoring sessions to my needs—she’s coached me through pregnancy and even helped with my recovery after surgery! 

4.⁠ ⁠What’s been the biggest change you’ve noticed since starting Barre?

Probably the biggest challenge—and one I’m sure many can relate to—is staying consistent with exercise, especially when life gets busy. My weekly personal session with Gen helps keep me on track, along with the on-demand app, which makes it so easy to fit in a workout anytime. Even on holiday, there’s no excuse, thanks to the travel series with minimal or no equipment needed. I’ve officially become that person who packs a resistance band and a deflated Pilates ball in my suitcase!

5.⁠ ⁠Do you have a favourite class or type of workout?

I love mixing up my workouts, but I always find myself coming back to the pure barre classes. They remind me of my early childhood ballet days—not that I was ever a natural, but I always enjoyed it!

6.⁠ ⁠What’s your workout “must-have” (favourite leggings, playlist, or post-class snack)?

I always set the mood with a Tropical House or Afrobeats playlist to get me pumped for my workout. When it comes to activewear, I mostly wear Lululemon, but I’ve just placed an order for a few pieces from Alo. If you’re ever in need of workout outfit inspiration, Gen is your girl —her wardrobe is full of effortless neutrals, and I’d happily take it all.

7.⁠ ⁠What would you say to someone thinking about joining The Barre Coach?

I’d say don’t hesitate—just go for it! You won’t look back. No matter your level, you can start at your own pace and progress over time. It’s truly the best decision you can make for both your body and mind.

8.⁠ ⁠What’s one podcast episode you’d recommend to The Barre Coach gang?

I don’t have a specific episode to recommend, but I tune into The News Agents, a daily award-winning podcast. It’s a great way to stay informed and dive into relevant global news topics. Sorry, probably not the most exciting answer to end on!

Ready to Raise the Barre?

If you’re looking for a workout that’s welcoming, effective, and endlessly adaptable through all ages and stages, Barre is the answer. Strength-focused sessions give you the tools to feel stronger, more balanced, and empowered, no matter where you are in your fitness journey.

Download The Barre Coach app to access over 300 classes, challenges and programmes: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-bar...

The Barre Coach Online Studio is your personal training programme for the best Barre workouts, functional strength training, low impact cardio and yoga to help women of all ages and abilities feel healthier, happier, stronger and more confident. Whether you’re looking to reignite your love for exercise, craving to sculpt a strong body and mind, or you’re a mum needing a feel-good pre and postnatal programme to fit into busy family life in the comfort of your own home, the online studio app has you covered. Kicking off with a complimentary 1-2-1 consultation, this app ensures you have a truly tailored experience to support your fitness goals. Access over 300 on-demand workouts as well as weekly live stream classes. Take your pick of challenges from 4-week beginners Barre to 28-day intense challenge or 7-day flexibility series.

Download The Barre Coach app today https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-bar...