Barre with Justine

Graceful fitness for real, busy lives.

Fitness inspired by ballet, Pilates, and yoga — and lifestyle tips from a mom of three who knows what it’s like to have no time!

● Latest posts
  • What to do when your back is aching…

    What to do when your back is aching…

    One of the most common fitness questions I get is about achiness in the low back. Low back pain is something that affects many, many…

  • Motivation

    Motivation

    I am fascinated by the psychology behind motivation and exercise. What drives an individual to commit to movement as part of their life? What pushes…

  • Wellness & Libraries

    Wellness & Libraries

    When I was in my teens and early twenties, the concept of wellness wasn’t really a thing. Yes, there were many diet books to read…

  • A Book Club for University Students – Does it help their stress levels?

    A Book Club for University Students – Does it help their stress levels?

    The Winter Wellness Book Club is just about to begin here at the Brock Library. This is my own initiative and forms the basis for…

● About Me

I’m Justine, the creator of this blog and a full-time academic librarian, with a passion for fitness.

I believe that everyone deserves to feel valued and strong in their own body. My love of movement started in ballet, where I learned that strength and grace aren’t opposites — and my life as a busy, working mom of three taught me that self-care has to be realistic to matter. I bring both of those things into every class: grace, positivity, and the belief that you are worthy of feeling good.

One of the highlights of being on here was meeting @mandy_neale - she’s been my IG friend for several years now and one of the brightest lights for me and I know many others too, especially when I’m feeling down or need some jnspiration. 💗 Were you also shocked that today is September?! It was DARK when I left the gym tonight 😭 ✨Heavy weights are not the only way to get strong - time under tension, mindful movement, and consistency will take you there. Barre will challenge your muscles in so many ways AND you can feel like a dancer while you work out 🩰 Monday nights are for stretching 🧘‍♀️ 🧑‍🩰this is my youngest daughter’s favourite song - and it makes a great Balletone song too! 🩰 ✨always be kind - that’s the one thing I want my kids to always remember! 🫢Confession: there are weeks when my body feels burned out, with no desire to work out. ✨Will I miss the squabbling? Probably not 😀 ✨I hesitated to post this because I do have mixed feelings about portion control and measuring food. If you disagree with my take, I get it! But at the same time, tracking my portions has really helped me find balance over the years - including a gruelling second round of IVF.