Innovation: Jen Nardone on Barefoot Ballet / Pilates

 

Hi Jen. Please explain the concept of your Barefoot Ballet/Pilates class.

 

This class includes classical Pilates mat exercises with a flare of ballet technique, as well as some basic ballet conditioning movements. It is a class designed for all; both dancers and non-dancers will benefit. It is an opportunity for everyone to experience the grace and poise a ballet class offers. Some benefits of Pilates such as toning, flexibility, improved posture and core strength, efficient movement and body/mind connection go hand in hand with ballet. They are very complimentary to each other.

 

 

How did the inspiration for it evolve?

 

With my roots grounded in ballet and dance, and my new found love for Pilates I was inspired to fuse the two types of movement together to give birth to an integrative and creative type of fitness class. As well I also considered that many people would love to drop into an actual ballet class but don’t because of fear and intimidation – a class such as this would aid someone with that curiosity to gain the basic knowledge, technique and confidence to take the plunge. As a dancer myself, I’ve always wished there was a class for me to condition my body and improve my technique on the days I didn’t have ballet. If I had this option, it would have prevented possible injury and improved my overall performance.

 

 

Please take us through a class.

 

We begin the class in supine position (lying down with face up) with a neutral spine, focusing on our breath and warming up the muscles. We then proceed to movements working the core and hip flexors, making our way to seated position. Here we will challenge our bodies to some balance exercises. The following section of the class is called our sideline series, where we

complete movements laying on our side working the hip flexors, gluteus and of course our core. Rolling over into prone position (lying down with face down) we work on some back strengthening extension exercises. This is the most important part of the class as it is crucial to strengthen the back and abdominals together to improve posture. Next we come to all fours and plank position for a few exercises. Very slowly we make our way to a standing position. Here is the portion of the class where we practice our ballet conditioning movements. We complete the class with a cool down of stretching leading into a small meditation. Every class is unique and progressively changing.

 

 

What do you love most about what you do?

 

To be able to educate others and empower them about health, fitness and wellness makes my soul happy. I want to inspire people to change their lifestyles for the better. Helping people realize that there is more to fitness then just a physical workout is my main goal; there is a strong mind body connection founded upon positive belief.

 

For more information, email Jen at jen.nardone {at} hotmail {dot} com or via Facebook.   Jen also administers a Power Pilates Facebook Group where she posts about her new programs, Q&As and shares health tips.

 

Jen currently offers Barefoot Ballet/Pilates at Studio Kelani in Windsor, ON, Canada.