The Pilates Method is a series of mat or equipment based exercises inspired by calisthenics, yoga and ballet.  Pilates improves flexibility, strength, balance and body awareness.  After being introduced into the United States in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates, it has been adapted to suit people in the general community.  Pilates caters to everyone, from beginner to advanced.  You can perform exercises using your own body weight (mat based), or with the aid of various pieces of equipment (equipment-based).  Each exercise is performed with attention to the Five Basic Principles of STOTT PILATES (R) method.  

BarreAmped is a fitness regimen based on The Lotte Berk Method, Pilates, yoga, and orthopedic stretching.  This results oriented program is efficient, challenging, cerebral and rewarding.  It centers around deep, concentrated muscle work often incorporating isometric (static muscle work) training and small rhythmic movements within those held positions.  Intense, to say the least!  After these contractions of the muscles are sustained, short, dynamic stretches follow.  This allows the heart rate to go up (during work) and down (during stretches and transitions) creating a great interval workout.  The last 6-8 minutes of class ends with more passive, relaxing stretches.