Alyssa Hustedt is a good friend and a fitness maven whose beauty, form and long lines are breathtaking (spot her in ToeSox lookbooks and all over our website). Her passion to help other dancers of all ages and backgrounds pursue their dreams is just one way Alyssa inspires us. So how does this ballerina and barre instructor keep her form? From tough workouts to fat shakes, Alyssa is a force - inside and out of the studio. Find out here…
What are the similarities between ballet and barre workouts?
Before I took my first barre class, I had no idea what to expect. My first experience was at Xtend Barre and I loved that they incorporated dance, pilates, and many other exercises and movements I had learn through my years of ballet. I also tried other barre workouts that are based on the Lotte Berk method rather than traditional ballet. Think of the small isolated positions that you hold, pulse and shake in wherein ballet you use full, long lengthened movements. What I realized is that there is a huge spectrum of different types of "barre" and it took me a little while to find my perfect fit.
Barre class makes us shake like crazy! Do you still shake? Any mental tricks or tips you can offer?
Confession: Yes, I do still shake and I am a wimp! If I'm taking a class, I am usually one of the first to modify or stop and stretch. Barre classes should never get easier. The more you do them, the more you're able to push yourself further, deeper into the positions and technique. I like to remind myself and my clients that change only happens when we get out of our our comfort zones and go deeper than we did the day before. The burn means change.
What is your go-to meal or snack that fuels you before or after class?
My daily staple is what I call a "Fat Shake". I am starting a 9-month intensive nutrition certification program this month and I am reading more and more about the many benefits of good fats in our diets. My shake includes:
1 cup Almond Milk
1 scoop Collagen Powder (Protein & Amino Acid Superfood - so good for skin, nails, hair & joints)
First, they keep you from slipping. Second, the studio feels more sanitary than if everyone had bare feet. Third, they are super cute and a fun addition to workout attire.
Can you show us your favorite 3 moves that will shape our tush, legs and abs?
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Alyssa Hustedt is a good friend and a fitness maven whose beauty, form and long lines are breathtaking (spot her in ToeSox lookbooks and all over our website). Her passion to help other dancers of all ages and backgrounds pursue their dreams is just one way Alyssa inspires us. So how does this ballerina and barre instructor keep her form? From tough workouts to fat shakes, Alyssa is a force - inside and out of the studio. Find out here…