My Black "Girl" Barre Event

Black “Girl” Barre was a hit.

And as much as I wanted to have this event, people WANTED to be there.

I followed a little idea that I had and it ended up being really important. Going into it, I knew it would be important to me to shift the conversation around barre and boutique studio workouts, but I didn't realize how many other people wanted to do the same thing.

Yesterday, we had to override the class capacity to accommodate everyone (and it was FULL). It was the most enthusiastic, supportive, and hilarious barre class I have ever taught. Even after teaching twice yesterday morning, I felt the room give me the energy I needed and I gave them my absolute best. 

The entire process felt so easy to me. That is partly because of the support that Lumos, Wellness Refinery, Sweet Nectar, and the community gave me. The other part of that was because of HOW MUCH I WANTED THIS. It was amazing to hear some folks say they have 1. Never taken Barre or 2. Don't take any workout classes. They put themselves out there for ME. They put themselves out there for community. And it was so gratifying to see it all happen. 

Snapping back to reality this morning, I can see the lack of diversity in my day-to-day fitness routine. However, last night clearly illustrated to me that it is not for lack of desire by POC (specifically black femmes). 

If you are a white instructor or studio owner, it is time to look at how you're engaging with other communities. Does your website make people feel welcome? Does your studio policy protect folks from micro- aggressions and take the burden OFF of the person of color? Do you take the time to get to know ALL of your clients and students as individuals, without singling them out or completely ignoring them? 

I am sure you are, but can you do more? Can you scan your timelines, your classes, and your friend groups and recognize who is missing? Can you do more to make people feel open and included? 

I don't know the answers. I just know that last night proved the need is there. The desire is there. The excitement is there. And any fitpro and studio who isn't recognizing this is completely missing out. 

If you are interested in supporting more events like this, feel free to shoot me an email. If you would like to make a donation to the next black girl barre class and ensure that this community continues to grow and be supportive, you can donate to my paypal here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme2/laurenleavellfitness