Get to Know Helen Barlow

helen barlow pt

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED IN TRAINING?

I used to go to the gym with my mum and do classes together from high school! My mum has always been super active, and so it’s always been second nature to me to be the same! I’m thankful for that.

I then went on to train and dance professionally, so movement has always been a massive part of my life. I really got into my training when I sustained an injury that stopped me from dancing, but showed me the wonderful world of pilates. I saw how essential it was to build strength alongside mobility and flexibility.

HOW DID YOU TURN IT INTO A CAREER?

I went on to train with Premier Global, Barre Concept, and Burrell Education. And I put myself out there! It was scary at first, but I would walk into studios, ask if they were hiring.

Before I knew it I was teaching 20-25 classes per week all over South West London! It was fairly exhausting, looking back, but I’m so glad I put that work in. It gave me so much experience with many different people, got my name out there, and has made me the instructor I am today.

get to know Helen Barlow

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE: STRENGTH, PILATES, BARRE, MORE?

I have to say strength! I love a good strength class. You can still get your heart rate up, get a really good sweat on, whilst not knackering yourself for that day ahead. I love the feeling of getting stronger, my body working well, and of course the definition that comes with strength training.

I always tell my members, if you’re working with a good weight, using time under tension and tempo work, your heart will be beating FAST in a strength class! No impact, but lots of intensity.

WHO INSPIRES YOU, WHY?

So many people inspire me. My clients for sure. They all lead busy busy lives, and still continue to show up for themselves. They have incredible focus and dedication and it honestly inspires me to keep bettering myself.

Business women that have really built from the ground up, whilst helping other women along the way.

And of course, my peers in fitness. It can be a tough industry, and you have to have incredible passion for fitness and connecting with people to succeed.

Helen Barlow

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT FITNESS GOALS?

I’m currently running a core challenge throughout July with my members, so I’m going to say core strength. A strong core is really the foundation for the rest of your training. We are taking plank progressions each week, so we will be able to measure our progress!

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO FITNESS

Find what you LOVE. You probably will have heard this before but it’s true.

A way of moving that you enjoy, an instructor that plays music you love, an instructor that has your banter. If you enjoy it, it’s so much easier to stick to.

Start slow and build up. Create a strong routine and don’t overwhelm yourself. Once you’re loving your routine, seeing results, and enjoying the process, you can increase your training.

WHAT'S THE BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED?

I love simply, ‘One step at a time’.

I can be an over-thinker, and am definitely a perfectionist, so I tend to stress myself out over the bigger picture. When I remind myself, one step at a time, I can bring myself back, focus on the task right in front of me, and do that to the very best of my ability.

helen barlow healthy lifestyle tips

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?

I love music. I spend so much time finding new music and mixes, creating playlists, and have recently learnt to DJ. Music helps me to zone out, to focus. I just love it.

I love anything beauty (I am a girl's girl!), and so love having pamper evenings on my own or with friends, discovering new products. Getting dressed up, going out for dinner and cocktails. Travelling (when possible).

WHAT DOES A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE MEAN TO YOU?

BALANCE. Moving everyday, cross training my body to stay strong, flexible, and fit. Getting outside daily (even in the rain). Laughing daily. Eating to fuel my body and mind. Not restricting myself. Giving my body love!

QUICK-FIRE:

1. Favourite workout music?

Hip hop/basement! I can’t choose! All the vibes.

2. My dream Sunday would be…

No alarm, coffee and brunch in the sun, spend time with friends.

3. What's something everyone should know about you?

I wear my heart on my sleeve and my thoughts ALL OVER MY FACE.

4. What's something that's always in your gym bag?

Face cleanser!

5. Favourite brand at TSE?

Has to be Alo Yoga! Beautiful fits and quality.