Okay, I am sure that the last thing you want to hear about on this lovely Tuesday morning, is how to improve your bod in time for the big day. But, just like you probably had to learn to love broccoli, the bridal workout is another those must-do things.
Here are some really great companies that have short term programs and that are PERFECT for whipping you into shape in no time flat…
The Bar Method
The Bar Method is a kick your butt, fall on the floor from exhaustion, can’t walk for 2 days kind of work out. Trust me, I’ve done it. But, and this is a big but, it really does work. The women that I was taking classes with were tiny and toned with perfect little booties and sleek sculpted arms. No bulky muscles at the Bar Method.
In a nutshell, the “Bar Method exercise system creates a uniquely lean, firm, sculpted body by reshaping and elongating muscles while maintaining an intense pace that burns fat and increases stamina. The hour-long class is composed of eight or nine strengthening exercises followed by stretches. The strength work combines holding positions that use the body’s own weight with small, controlled moves that increase range of motion and stamina. Stretching is focused on the hips, chest and lower back to improve posture and body alignment. Students begin the class with free weights and push-ups, move to the ballet bar to work their legs and abdominals, and finish on mats for more core work and stretching.” Seriously people, this is the BEST workout. If you aren’t in an area where they have a location, call and buy the DVD. It’s GREAT.
Giddy
Giddy is a San Francisco based program that was launched to accommodate women with specific fitness goals…ie, your wedding.Each program is custom tailored to suit your own needs. Those arms that jiggle just a bit too much, gone. Those abs that need to be toned and tightened to squeeze into your mermaid style gown, done. If you are lucky enough to be in the area, Giddy is the best option for a time sensitive shape up.
The New York City Ballet Workout
This is your workout if you simply need a slight tone-up and don’t want to spend the money on a gym or personalized program. I actually have both volumes of this workout and although it requires some dance knowledge and a decent amount of flexibility, it’s a great way to get to those problem areas. Plus, the more you do it, the easier the moves become and less spastic you will be! For less than 20 bucks, you can’t beat it!
Bridal Bootcamp at Sports Club and other Fitness Centers
Sports Club LA is one of many major clubs around the country that are starting to do bridal focused training programs. They are an awesome way to get plugged in with an elite club for a short time frame, while not having to pay start-up costs. For my own wedding, I actually did a bridal program at a boutique club called Vivre. It was so perfect because it came with a one time personal trainer that could set up a routine for me, then I could complete it on my own time. Check around…if you have a Sports Club LA, definitely do that. If not, try checking with other chains and boutique studios in your area.
Buff Brides
Buff Brides started as a book a few years back and has since been extended into this great dvd. Basically, you get a 40 minute, high energy, muscle-shaping cardio program, using a resistance band. It comes with 3 workouts…Cardio Express which is a combo of cardio and lower body sculpting moves, Beautiful Back and Arms where you do upper body exercises that tighten your shoulders, arms and back, and finally, Slender Abs and Hips which focuses on your butt, thighs and abdominals. Although I haven’t tried it, I have heard really good things.
There is a million ways to get in shape, but these programs all focus on intense training and fast results. So, whether you have six weeks or six months, there IS a way to get gown ready! I would love to hear what your favorite workout is, that can get good, fast results!!