All set to premiere tonight, we give you a preview of Barry’s Bootcamp, a fitness program that is widely practiced across the US and Europe, in as many as 16 locations.
Partner and co-founder Barry Jay believes in keeping it fresh and mixing things up, which has led many of Hollywood’s leading ladies to his doorstep—the likes of Jessica Biel and Kim Kardashian. After this little tête-à-tête, you’ll be tempted to take a class too.
What made you want to start Barry’s Bootcamp?
“I had been taking group classes for years at my local gym back in the 90s. I always found them to be fun and motivating, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. I didn’t feel satisfied with my workout, and never felt like I was truly getting a full cardio+weights workup. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create an effective method that incorporated both of those vital cardio and strength training elements into a fun, group setting. Not only would it be a more efficient way to exercise, taking me out of the gym for hours on end, but it would have that great energy you can only get when working out alongside your peers.”
What’s the basic concept behind the workout?
“At Barry’s Bootcamp, we’ve created an environment that is high-energy and fun, and the workout is an efficient calorie-scorching cardio and strength training interval session. We basically designed this workout for people who want to see quick results, but don’t have the time or desire to spend more than an hour at a gym. Each Barry’s Bootcamp class combines 25-30 minutes of interval-based cardiovascular routines on treadmills, with 25-30 minutes of strength training using free weights, resistance bands, medicine balls, and more. We strive to never bore our clients, and to never let them plateau. The endless variety of exercises and instructor styles ensures that no two classes are the same, and that every session feels new, exciting and challenging.”
What would you consider your USP?
“From the get-go, people have responded favorably to the intervals of treadmill and free weights that make up a typical Barry’s workout. Our one-hour sessions are efficient and get the job done. What’s more, our classes are formatted to ensure everyone has fun in there. You’ll be much more likely to stick to a workout routine if you actually enjoy it. We’ve continued to grow successfully simply because we have a quality product and our unparalleled experience is consistent across the board. All of our studios in the US and overseas are filled with fun, upbeat music, with motivating and extremely knowledgeable trainers.”
Why is a combination of strength training and cardio so important?
“Your body will not change if you are adamant about sticking to only one of these exercise methods. A combination of these two disciplines make for a dynamic workout that will produce results much faster than if you were to pick one over the other for an extended period of time. What it comes down to is efficiency. You can burn up to 1,000 calories in an hour-long session at Barry’s Bootcamp, because the combination of cardio and strength training helps elevate the heart rate, speeds up metabolism, and targets muscles more deeply.”
A piece of advice for people who are struggling to get started on their fitness journey
“Your body can do more than you think it can. If you believe in your mind that you can start to get yourself in shape and healthy, once you begin taking those small steps, your body will follow. Consistency is key—but, it’s ok to start small and work your way toward your larger goals over time. As long as you have a plan and stick with it as best you can, you can pat yourself on the back.”
What keeps you motivated to stay fit?
“I am an endorphin-chaser. I know, without a doubt, that I’ll be a much happier person if I’m able to get in a workout each day. After a good workout I immediately feel energized, am more productive and organized in other areas of my life, and am in a great mood overall.”
What is your favorite at-home workout move?
“I love prescribing combination moves that require only your body weight. Moves like these help eliminate all excuses. My go-to move is a burpee. It combines agility with strength and cardio and requires no equipment at all. You’ll start to sweat after only a few of these in a row.”
Can you tell us about your favorite health foods?
I love protein shakes, especially since I’m on-the-go. My cabinets are always stocked with PB2 (powdered peanut butter with 85% less fat calories), so I like to combine that with half a banana, vegan protein powder and unsweetened almond milk. I maintain a vegan diet, but for that non-vegan, non-vegetarians out there, I would suggest a grilled chicken breast with avocado, wrapped in a mini low-carb tortilla as a snack between meals.
Having gained some insight into Barry’s world, have we now convinced you enough to sign on? You could also catch him on tonight’s episode of Fit, Famous & Fabulous to help make up your mind.
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