According to ClassPass, virtual strength training classes are some of the most likely to be replayed during the pandemic. Bodyweight training in particular has become especially popular, as many people don’t have access to all the gym equipment they’re used to. But you don’t need fancy equipment or even free weights to get a great at-home strength workout for your arms, legs, and core. Sweat fitness instructor Williams — who herself has RA — takes us through this low-impact, no-equipment barre workout that engages all your major muscles groups. She also demonstrates modifications that can make each movement easier on your joints. Don’t be discouraged if you need to modify certain exercises — Williams does, too! “I couldn’t do push-ups on my toes for years because of my RA,” she says. “It was doing modified push-ups that really helped me grow my range of motion in my wrists to be able to do them on my toes.” The more you practice, the stronger you’ll get. Take the first step now by hitting play on this full-body barre burner! You’ll also hear from Bhana on how exercise fits into your self-care routine. Fusion workouts, which combine at least two different types of exercises, are a great way to fit a quick and effective sweat session into your busy day. You’ll get cardio, strength, and conditioning benefits, all in one workout. Here, Williams mixes the toning and strengthening benefits of barre with the aerobic benefits of cardio. “I have RA myself, so I completely understand how hard it can be to find a cardio workout that’s still nice and protective on my joints,” she says. That’s why this cardio-barre routine is ideal — you’ll get your heart pumping without any running, jumping, or other high-impact exercises. Bhana is also here to provide practical advice and tips throughout the workout. So grab a mat (and a chair, for balance) and get started.
