August 20, 2024
 
Greetings Barre Bae!
 
It's the first week of school and life is about to settle into a calm fall routine. Until then, we are keeping things short and sweet!
 
This week, I'm introducing you to Michelle, my other co-host for next month's retreat, spotlighting Carlise, an FBW regular, and hooking you and your bestie up with an amazing deal for the retreat!
 
MEET Michelle
Michelle Brugal, Retreat Co-Host
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I met Michelle back in 2019 when she was an instructor for an online fitness platform that I was a member of. She quickly became one of my favorite teachers because her style of barre and sculpt was so unique. I had never experienced anything like her classes before. 
 
Michelle is credited for bringing barre to that platform and it remains one of their most popular classes. Taking her classes so consistently during the lockdown in 2020 really solidified my love for barre. She has been a constant source of inspiration since I decided to get certified.
 
Michelle's knowledge of the body transcends exercise. She uses dance as a tool for self-expression. Connecting music and movement through thoughtful and creative programming, her classes deliver effective and empowering results, all while making exercise feel like a party!
 
She holds a BFA in dance from Fordham University/The Ailey School and has more than 15 years professional experience as a performer and teacher. Alongside her dance and modeling career, Michelle has honed her fitness skills working for various boutique fitness studios in New York City where she trained celebrities, athletes, children, teens, and moms. Michelle is a NASM certified personal trainer and Women’s Fitness Specialist with a focus on pre/postnatal exercise.
 
Like Megan, Michelle is looking forward to meeting and moving with the FBW community. at the upcoming retreat in September.
FBW Member Spotlight
Meet Carlise, a reseacher who's been bit by the travel bug
FBW: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
 
C: I work from home in El Cerrito, CA, as a researcher. I love traveling, cheering for the Warriors, attending comedy shows, and catching Boyz II Men whenever I get a chance. 
 
FBW: What is your favorite thing about practicing barre?
 
C: My favorite thing about practicing barre is that it is low-impact yet still very challenging. The slow movements help me focus more on what I'm doing and on my balance, which is a different experience for me. 
 
FBW: What makes barre different from other modes of movement you do/have done?
 
C: I’ve typically done HIIT workouts, which are much faster and involve moving quickly from one exercise to the next. In contrast, barre is slower and allows me to focus on holding moves for
longer periods, which helps strengthen specific muscles.
 
FBW: What would you tell someone considering trying barre at FBW?
 
C: I would tell them that is a great low-impact exercise to help build strength and flexibility.
 
FBW: What’s the biggest thing you’ve noticed since starting your barre practice?
 
C: I've noticed greater strength and flexibility in my legs and glutes. 
 
FBW: Anything else you’d like to share with the FBW community about barre in general or my classes specifically?
 
C: One of the things that surprised me is how much I enjoy having the class outdoors. After working inside all day, the chance to be outside with the sunshine, trees, and breeze is invigorating in addition to the class itself. I'm so glad I found this class.
 
 
 
Pass it on…
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Do you know someone who is looking for an inclusive wellness community who would appreciate FBW content and classes? Please forward this newsletter on to them. 
 
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LAUREL LN & MAY RD
El Sobrante/Richmond, California 94803, United States