Photo by Randy Schmidt
by Rebecca Friedman
Possibly the most ‘New Orleanian’ approach to fitness in town also happens to be free. It’s all thanks to local musician Robin Barnes, who credits this movement to saving her life.
Barnes grew up playing competitive golf and competed on the college level, but in her early 20s, a severe kidney infection force her to take stock of her health. “I learned that I was borderline diabetic,” recalls Barnes. “I was on painkillers, walking with a cane at age 23. I was in a depression.” She knew she needed to revamp her lifestyle but found the prospect overwhelming, particularly given what she calls a “true New Orleanian” love of fried food, bread, and sauces.
The spark came from Barnes’ mother, who said “Girl, you better get off your ass and move ya brass.” Barnes posted a note on Facebook asking her followers to meet up with her for some cardio - and they showed up, planting the seed for a new movement.
Since 2013, Move Ya Brass (MYB) has grown into a fitness community that attracts hundreds of locals and tourists alike to group run/walk sessions and classes like Twerk Ya Brass and Stretch Ya Brass at locations across New Orleans, Mandeville, and Slidell. “I started these because I vowed no one would be in the position I was in when I was trying to get healthy,” says Barnes, who remembers being put off by the lack of affordable options or participants of diverse backgrounds or skill levels. With MYB, Barnes and her team have infused fitness with hospitality, music, love, and a feeling of family.
Classes are taught by professional trainers and choreographers who have danced with the likes of Madonna and Dawn Richard. Offerings have grown over the years to include cardio fitness (to help keep Barnes energized through stage performances) and yoga as she learned more about the mental health benefits. “I am a learner, and as I learn, I try to implement new programs to keep it free for the community so people have that resource,” Barnes said. She emphasizes she doesn’t teach classes and calls herself a ‘turtle’; “I am the cheerleader on the side trying to wiggle, twerk, and run.”
MYB keeps its programming free by coordinating paid private events (like bachelorette parties) and corporate wellness programs. “We really try to keep the overhead low so we make sure we pay our trainers and instructors the best in the city, and the rest of us are volunteers,” she said.
Barnes also takes pride in the attendee mix: “It’s what I always want my New Orleans to be: single Black moms to Asian chefs to some older couples on a fixed income looking for something fun to do to people who are wealthy but want the camaraderie and love the spirit. We say at the start of every run/walk, ‘You come as a stranger but leave as family.’”
