A Fitness Founder Talks Routines, Rituals & More
I start my day by moving my spine. Flexion, extension, side bends and gentle rotation – nothing complicated, but it instantly makes me feel more awake. The spine is the central axis of the body and keeping it mobile first thing supports everything from posture and core strength to the nervous system. I like to think of as ‘switching on’ my body, creating space, releasing stiffness and setting the tone to move with more ease and energy.
Before coffee, it’s always water. Hydration is my second ritual, and I really notice the difference in my energy if I skip it. Breakfast is light but nourishing – either a smoothie full of protein, fibre and healthy fats, or sourdough with almond butter. Over time, I’ve realised how I fuel myself in the morning shapes not just my physical energy but my mental clarity, too.
When time is tight, an express barre class ticks all the boxes. Short but powerful, a 20-minute Barre Series class blends strength, cardio and core work, leaving me energised and centred. There’s something about moving with real focus that has such an impact on my mood and productivity.
A Barre Series class is all about strength and flow. We start with a standing warm-up to mobilise the spine, then move into low-impact but high-intense sequences that blend Pilates principles with ballet-inspired movements. There’s mat work for the core, standing leg sequences at the barre – or a chair at home – and upper body sculpting with light weights. Classes close with restorative stretches to reset the body. The goal isn’t just to fatigue muscles but to build strength, stability and awareness.
What makes barre powerful is how precise it is. Those small, controlled movements and holds target stabilising muscles that are so often missed in traditional strength training. It sculpts and defines, yes, but it also builds functional strength that supports posture and movement. For me, it’s about teaching the body how to move better, with alignment and balance, rather than just chasing sore muscles.
Barre hooked me in because it sits at the crossroads of so many things I love. Dance, Pilates, functional training, mindfulness – it’s dynamic and challenging but also adaptable. What I love most is that barre isn’t just about changing how your body looks, but how it feels and functions. That blend of physical and mental engagement is what makes it unique.
I keep the equipment simple. Light weights, resistance bands and a Pilates ball are my essentials. They’re minimal, portable and versatile, but they allow me to create endless variations. With a band, something as simple as a squat or sidestep becomes ten times more effective, and I love using them for arm sequences too – just a few minutes can create an incredible burn. A Pilates ball between the thighs fires up the inner thighs and core, or under the lower back it supports ab work. These small props transform simple movements, adding resistance or instability that challenges the body in a deeper and smarter way.
Food is fuel. Before teaching or training, I have something light like a smoothie. Post-workout, my focus shifts to protein and colour – often a quinoa bowl with salmon, or a vibrant salad with avocado and roasted vegetables. Snacks are all about balancing energy – Greek yoghurt with berries, apple with nut butter, or a handful of nuts. I don’t follow rigid food rules but do pay attention to how food makes me feel – energised, clear-headed and nourished.
What I wear is just as important. I want pieces that feel timeless, functional and sustainable – things I can teach in, then head straight into a meeting or the school run. Comfort and breathability are key, but I also believe in the confidence that comes from wearing something well-designed. My favourite brands are Varley, Live The Process and The Upside.
Recovery has become non-negotiable. I used to see it as optional but now I know it’s part of the practice. That might mean restorative stretching, breathwork, or heading out for a walk. Most days involve some movement, but there are also days when I don’t do anything. Listening to my body has taught me that strength isn’t only about pushing hard but also knowing when to pause. I also swear by magnesium baths before bed – I’m all about giving my nervous system the same care and attention I give my muscles.
At the weekend, I break away from routine. I gravitate towards being outdoors – long walks, hiking or playful family activities. Weekends are less about structure and more about curiosity. For me, that’s the essence of movement – not just discipline.
My relationship with movement has evolved. In the early days, it was all about precision and pushing limits, driven by perfectionism and performance. Now, my focus is on longevity and sustainable movement. Barre has been the constant thread, evolving with me.
Looking forward, my focus will be on restorative and functional movement. Restorative work gives the body a chance to rest – through stretching, mobility flows or breathwork that calms the nervous system. Functional movement is about patterns that support everyday life – hinging, squatting, rotating and balancing. Ensuring both feature in my workouts is key – I want to feel strong but also agile, mobile and resilient, not just now but for decades to come.
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