Jill Dailey McIntosh taught a Master Class in Chicago.
Last week I had the fabulous opportunity to take a Master Class with San Francisco-based founder and creator Jill Dailey McIntosh of The Dailey Method at their Bucktown location. We were warned this class would not be easy, but she really kicked our butts – in a good way! During the class I could tell the small oppositional movements were working every muscle, centered around my core. The warm burning I felt the following few days confirmed the class is effective. The Dailey Method® is a unique combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, muscle strengthening, yoga and orthopedic exercises. My own fitness background includes dance, yoga, Pilates, weight training, kickboxing, interval training and boot camp. So I thought this sounded like something perfect for me, especially since I am getting older and want to avoid injury.
Left to Right: The Dailey Method Instructors Katy Kerr, Stefanie Schodrof, Tina Anderson, Tami Conway, Leanne Kurtzweil, and Lorna Samatas doing Athletic V thigh work at the bar.
The bright lofty Bucktown studio has ample space and even a daycare room. They joked there is always a pregnant woman in very class! Many Chicago area instructors came to Bucktown for this event with Jill Daily. They were all so upbeat and might I add – in fantastic shape. If I could look like them, I thought, I’m sold! Interestingly, several of the instructors told me they initially were into running and other types of fitness, and had no dance or yoga background. Yet, they came to love The Dailey Method and some have even opened their own studios.
Jill Dailey McIntosh and Chicago area instructors demonstrate the plank.
This challenging one-hour exercise class effectively strengthens, tones and lengthens your entire body. All movement is controlled and very focused, effective and safe. Jill told us that proper alignment is their primary focus. Each set of exercises is followed by a series of active stretches to develop more sculpted and supple muscles. The entire body and mind is constantly working throughout our workout. Through this process one’s body, posture and physical awareness will be transformed. Jill guided us through the movements from the floor to the barre, making it all seem so easy! She coached us through the class saying “You can do this!” You can always rest in the middle of the class if needed. So there is no pressure. We had the added bonus of the instructors coming around to help us with our alignment.
Jill’s sister and instructor Lorna Samatas were angels who helped us with our posture and alignment during the class.The Dailey Method InstructorsIt was a thrill to meet Jill Dailey McIntosh
Visit The Dailey Method in your area. There will be a total of 10 in the Chicago area when Northbrook opens this sprin!. Also be sure to check out the new Dailey Interval class. It’s a more simplified, faster-paced, 45-minute Dailey Method class that combines periods of high and low intensity movement for optimal cardiovascular results! Please check with your local studio for availability. It is recommended that you take a minimum of 30 TDM classes prior to taking Dailey Interval, so I have my work cut out for me!
The Dailey Method Bucktown | 1714 N Damen Avenue (at W St. Paul) | 773/904-8913
– Carol Calacci
Photos: Second City Style
