Simple Ways to Boost Your Heart Health with Only 20 Minutes of Cardio Barre Workout

When considering effective cardio workouts, activities like running, swimming, and cycling usually come to mind. However, cardio barre exercises shouldn’t be overlooked when aiming to improve your cardiovascular fitness.

Barre classes are known for being gentle, strength-focused workouts that primarily involve using a ballet barre (or a chair at home). By repeating subtle movements until your muscles quiver, a well-structured barre class can engage almost all muscle groups while being gentle on your joints. By increasing the pace, you can sustain an elevated heart rate throughout the session, thus fulfilling your cardio workout requirements.

Irrespective of the type of exercise, the American Heart Association suggests engaging in at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity at least five times weekly for cardiovascular health. If conventional repetitive exercises like running or biking don’t appeal to you, why not attempt a cardio barre workout?

We’ve got a recommended video for you: Nicole Uribarri, the founder of Bande and a prominent figure in fitness, leads a fast-paced 20-minute cardio barre session specifically designed for home workouts as part of Well+Good’s Trainer of the Month Club. Remember to keep yourself hydrated throughout!

Uribarri initiates the workout with dynamic movements to get your heart rate up in what she calls a “plank cardio blast” series. This intense introduction includes knee-to-chest movements, shoulder taps in plank position, and a flow of push-ups—all within the warm-up phase. Subsequently, with a light grip on the barre, Uribarri transitions into a high-speed lunge routine focusing on the glutes and abs.

Although the workout’s tempo is demanding, each exercise emphasizes control in addition to speed. The movements may seem straightforward, but the challenge lies in the swift transitions and expansive motions, notably during the plank cardio blast. Ensure to modify the movements if you experience discomfort or find them too advanced.

“I encourage you to push yourself and give your best effort—whatever that may be today,” Uribarri mentions. “Remember, this moment is temporary, take this brief time in your day to focus on yourself.”

Barre workouts are comprehensive in targeting the entire body, and Uribarri emphasizes this by concluding the session with an intense leg-lift series followed by our favorite—the plank cardio blast. This will surely get your heart rate up!

“As the workout nears its end, your mind may urge you to stop,” Uribarri affirms. “You don’t have to. Keep going, say yes! Your body is capable of more than you think. Exercise should be a celebration of your capabilities. Embrace these moments and the opportunity to move in this manner.”