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3 Things Robyn Downs Wishes She Had Known Before Starting a barre3 Challenge: Summer Edition
Portland client Robyn Downs is no stranger to barre3 Challenges. She’s participated in several over the last few years and has the results to prove it. (She’s lost over 50 pounds!) Today, Robyn is sharing some insights from her past experiences to help you start the barre3 Anywhere Challenge off strong and stay healthy all summer long.
Rethink Summer Traditions. There’s just something about warm summer nights that seem to require wine, or least ice cream. Add in barbecues, camping trips, vacations and suddenly you’re off routine and faced with all kinds of seasonal temptations. A few indulgences and missed workouts here and there aren’t a problem, but over several months they can add up.
The first time I participated in a barre3 Challenge during the summer I initially felt like I was missing out. Summer traditions are sentimental, and I wanted those barbecue potato chips and white, fluffy hamburger buns just like everyone else. However, I was so committed to making healthy changes that I quickly switched mindsets and saw an opportunity to rethink traditions.
Instead of focusing on what I was missing, I started creating new, healthy ways to indulge in summer. Coconut water and berry popsicles became a new favorite family treat, and the crunchy veggie lentil salad I brought to the barbecue was one of the most popular dishes. Sometimes I even switched sparkling water for wine and found I woke up refreshed and more ready for summer fun. And taking barre3 outside made my body stronger and kept me from falling off the exercise wagon.
Enthusiasm is Contagious. I also worried about feeling left out at social events the first time I participated in a summer barre3 Challenge. I didn’t want to make a fuss about eating different food, skipping the cocktail, or squeezing in a 10-minute workout. Of course I know now that it’s all about owning it.
When we went to parties I brought food I could eat that was so delicious, everyone wanted to eat it too. When I subtly swapped iced tea for my cocktail at parties I was surprised that a few friends joined me. And when I busted out 10-minute workouts during vacations I was thrilled when some family members joined in. It’s become clear over time that my healthy choices have a direct impact on those around me, and my enthusiasm for this lifestyle invites people to try it too.
Warm Months Inspire Simplicity. During my first summer barre3 Challenge I quickly learned that one of the best parts is how simple it is. Cooking with fresh, summer produce couldn’t be easier. Throw some protein and veggies on the grill or chop some vibrant farmer’s market finds for a quick salad and you’re good to go. Pop into the studio on the way to your favorite activity or squeeze in 10 minutes at the playground with your kids. Do barre3 poolside or on the beach, then grab some fresh fruit, a handful of nuts, and your water bottle and relax for the afternoon. I actually think the simplicity of participating in a barre3 Challenge over the summer was what allowed me to really internalize all the healthy changes and make this way of eating and moving a way of life.
Sure, barre3 Challenges have helped me shed pounds and inches. But more importantly, they’ve helped me build strength in my body and greater balance in my life. This summer is the perfect time to recommit to healthy habits, so I hope you’ll join me for the barre3 Anywhere Challenge. Let’s do this!
Portland client Robyn Downs is no stranger to barre3 Challenges. She’s participated in several over the last few years and has the results to prove it. (She’s lost over 50 pounds!) Today, Robyn is sharing some insights from her past experiences to help you start the barre3 Anywhere Challenge off strong and stay healthy all summer long.
Rethink Summer Traditions. There’s just something about warm summer nights that seem to require wine, or least ice cream. Add in barbecues, camping trips, vacations and suddenly you’re off routine and faced with all kinds of seasonal temptations. A few indulgences and missed workouts here and there aren’t a problem, but over several months they can add up.
The first time I participated in a barre3 Challenge during the summer I initially felt like I was missing out. Summer traditions are sentimental, and I wanted those barbecue potato chips and white, fluffy hamburger buns just like everyone else. However, I was so committed to making healthy changes that I quickly switched mindsets and saw an opportunity to rethink traditions.
Instead of focusing on what I was missing, I started creating new, healthy ways to indulge in summer. Coconut water and berry popsicles became a new favorite family treat, and the crunchy veggie lentil salad I brought to the barbecue was one of the most popular dishes. Sometimes I even switched sparkling water for wine and found I woke up refreshed and more ready for summer fun. And taking barre3 outside made my body stronger and kept me from falling off the exercise wagon.
Enthusiasm is Contagious. I also worried about feeling left out at social events the first time I participated in a summer barre3 Challenge. I didn’t want to make a fuss about eating different food, skipping the cocktail, or squeezing in a 10-minute workout. Of course I know now that it’s all about owning it.
When we went to parties I brought food I could eat that was so delicious, everyone wanted to eat it too. When I subtly swapped iced tea for my cocktail at parties I was surprised that a few friends joined me. And when I busted out 10-minute workouts during vacations I was thrilled when some family members joined in. It’s become clear over time that my healthy choices have a direct impact on those around me, and my enthusiasm for this lifestyle invites people to try it too.
Warm Months Inspire Simplicity. During my first summer barre3 Challenge I quickly learned that one of the best parts is how simple it is. Cooking with fresh, summer produce couldn’t be easier. Throw some protein and veggies on the grill or chop some vibrant farmer’s market finds for a quick salad and you’re good to go. Pop into the studio on the way to your favorite activity or squeeze in 10 minutes at the playground with your kids. Do barre3 poolside or on the beach, then grab some fresh fruit, a handful of nuts, and your water bottle and relax for the afternoon. I actually think the simplicity of participating in a barre3 Challenge over the summer was what allowed me to really internalize all the healthy changes and make this way of eating and moving a way of life.
Sure, barre3 Challenges have helped me shed pounds and inches. But more importantly, they’ve helped me build strength in my body and greater balance in my life. This summer is the perfect time to recommit to healthy habits, so I hope you’ll join me for the barre3 Anywhere Challenge. Let’s do this!
