How This Barry’s Bootcamp Master Instructor Keeps Workouts FUN!
Today, you’re in for an EXTRA SPECIAL Barry’s Bootcamp treat. Let me intro this post by saying this: If you’re in the Chicago area, and you haven’t taken Matt Dye’s class at Barry’s River North, you need to go sign-up. Like, NOW. It’s a party every time – and you’ll never regret it.
Sometimes working out can seem a bit more like a chore than a release, and this really shouldn’t have to be the case. There are ways to keep it fun, positive and something you can look forward to! Some of my favorite tips are to create FAB playlists in advance (Matt’s music is always on point) and this is a HUGE factor on your workout, sign up for classes with instructors who inspire and motivate you and finally, change your mindset. Think of working out as YOU time, time to improve on yourself, be selfish and let your mind relax.
I know, I know, we’re all human and it’s sometimes nice to just CHILL on the couch and sleep in – and that’s great to do every once in a while. You SHOULD do that in fact. You don’t always have to do an intense workout, you can also jus take a stroll and make it a point to just move or stretch. However, it’s def a fine balance because you should also try to push yourself outside of your comfort zone – you CAN do it!!
Sweating can be therapeutic, gives you endorphins, allows you to sleep better, have mental clarity, etc. I mean the benefits are endless guys! As Matt is quoted on Barry’s Bootcamp website “Remember WHY you’re here, WHY you started & WHO you’re doing this for!”
Anyways, I HIGHLY suggest you continue reading for some great insight and some insider scoop on what the famed Barry’s Bootcamp workout is all about.
Let’s sweat to it 😉
Q: OK, I already know that you’re my favorite Barry’s Instructor and a Britney lover (team Brit always!) – but can you give the readers a low down on who you are?!
A: haha! (I do love me some Brit Brit 😉 Well, I have been an Barry’s instructor for over 4 years now! I ditched my PR job and degree to pursue an opportunity with Barry’s Nashville. Just over a year ago I moved up to Chicago and loving it ever since!
Q: That’s amazing – I love that you took that leap of faith to pursue what you love! You’re obviously amazing at what you do. How did you come upon this career and eventually become a Barry’s Bootcamp Master Instructor?
A: You’re too kind to me! I originally had a career path in pubic relations right after graduating from SIUE. I quickly found out 1 year into the field that it just wasn’t for me. I was taking a class in Barry’s Nashville and was presented with an opportunity for hire and I took it! Health and fitness has been a passion of mine since I was a young kid. It’s just a part of who I am.
Q: I can definitely see your passion shine through when you’re teaching. One of the reasons I LOVE your classes is because you keep the workouts SO fun. What’s your top advice to keep workouts this way & POSITIVE rather than it seeming like a chore?
A: To be completely honest…MUSIC is my go to for this one! Workouts can be as easy or as challenging as you make them but having good music is everything. Usually whatever mood I’m in, there is always a song or genre I can personally relate to and apply to my workouts. It’s definitely a form of therapy.
Q: That totally makes sense given that your playlists are always killer – literally I think I sing along in class every time. What are a few of your go-to workout songs? Also – fave Britney song of all time?!
A: These change quite a bit until I totally wear them out! To name a few…
- Work B*tch – Britney Spears
- My Songs Know What You Did In the Dark – Fall Out Boy
- Never Forget You – Zara Larson
- Bad Blood – Taylor Swift
- Alone – Marshmello
- & my favorite Brit song is “Slave 4 U” for sure.
Q: I’m still not over Bad Blood – love sprinting when that comes on! For someone that hasn’t ever taken a Barry’s class before and may be intimidated – what’s your advice to them?
A: Main advice would be to ensure individuals that ANYONE can do this program. All people of all fitness backgrounds are welcome and essentially completing the same workout on their own desired level or goal.
Q: Great advice – each person is for sure in control of how intense the workout is for them. Being a Barry’s instructor, your body is #goals for LOTS OF PEEPS! Can you spill on what your typical week looks like in regards to your workout regime?
A: Aw, thank you! A typical week for me usually includes an even mix of 2/3 Barry’s classes, 2/3 free weight days or 2/3 hot yoga classes!
Q: Lot’s if variety, love that! Speaking of workouts, we all know that the activity you’re doing is just as important as what you’re eating. What does a typical day look like for you in regards to what you’re snacking on?
A: I try to snack/eat pretty healthy during the week days and l indulge on the weekends (it’s all about balance)! Typical snacks include protein bars, smoothies/shakes, hummus, fruits, veggies and tons of water!
Q: Couldn’t agree more! Last but definitely not least, where can everyone find you and follow you?!
A: Insta : @mattkdye
I don’t know about you guys, but I’m off to book my next class in the #redroom so I can sweat to the tune of ‘Slave 4 U” – who doesn’t love sprinting to Britney?!
Always remember – you never regret a sweat, guys!
XOXO
Alysia (Purely)Pope
