Client Spotlight: VBAC and Barre

I had the opportunity to sit down with a former client of mine, Casey Glassley, who had an amazing VBAC back in January.  She was incredible and was willing to share a bit about what helped her prepare.  Of particular interest to me was her fitness routine.  I've noticed that fit, flexible women tend to, in general, have an easier time with birth.  While prenatal yoga is awesome and I don't intend at all to minimize it's impact, pregnant women are capable of much more!  (Always talk to your doctor, particularly while pregnant, before starting a new routine!) It was difficult to even find a photograph that showed a pregnant woman doing more than yoga.

​You had a successful VBAC back in January, can you tell us a little bit about that?

- My first child was born via scheduled c-section due to him being breech. When I was pregnant with my second child, I considered having a repeat c-section. After careful consideration and a lot of praying, I chose to try for a VBAC. I'm happy to say I had a successful VBAC with my daughter. My labor lasted over 24 hours and was the most mentally and physically challenged I have ever felt. However, with the help of my amazing husband, doula, and hospital staff, I was able to give birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl without any medication. The recovery process was so much easier after the VBAC than it was after the c-section. I am so grateful I chose to try for the VBAC and feel blessed for such an amazing and empowering experience.

How did you prepare?

- The process for preparing for my VBAC involved a few different steps. I did a lot of research about child birth in general, including reading articles about VBAC vs.repeat c-sections and understanding the benefits and risks involved with each process. I attended a couple of meetings through ICAN of Greater Indianapolis to talk to others about their experiences. I also had a doula who provided support while I was pregnant and during labor and delivery. My physical preparation involved trying my best to eat a healthy diet and exercised consistently throughout my pregnancy. I enjoyed taking brisk walks, chasing after my active toddler, and attending barre classes a couple times per week.

You did a barre class throughout your pregnancy, correct?  What was it about that class that appealed to you?

- Yes, I began taking barre classes back in 2013 and continued to take classes during both of my pregnancies. A variety of classes are offered where I attend. They range anywhere from high intensity intervals to toning to fun, dance-inspired cardio. All classes are both physically and mentally challenging. I love group exercise classes in general, but especially enjoy the atmosphere created in the barre classes. Instructors lead clients throughout the 50 minute class by providing guidance on proper form and motivating everyone to push themselves to their full potential. The combination of the upbeat music playing over the speakers and the dimly lit rooms create the perfect space for getting the best work out. It really allows you to get in the right mindset to connect with your body and mind while pushing out all other distractions from daily life. 

Where was it? Who was the instructor, etc?

- The barre classes I take are offered at The Barre Code Indianapolis. It is located in Fishers, just off of Cumberland Road and 121st Street. The studio owner is Danielle Hacker. Not only does she run the studio while being a mom to a toddler and a baby, but she also instructs quite a few of the classes. Most of the class formats I was able to attend during my pregnancy were the Barre Code or Barre-dio classes offered during my lunch hour. The lovely ladies that instruct these classes are Lily Slonaker, Heather Pohland, Kimberly Moore, and Sarah Hetrick. These are just a few of the instructors I've had throughout the years. Each has their own personality and vibe that shines through in each class. 

What kind of modifications did you need to make as your pregnancy progressed? 

- I had to modify ab-work once I was no longer allowed to lay flat on my back in my second trimester. As my pregnancy progressed, I had to stop doing push ups and planks on the ground and just did them at the barre. The instructors were available before and after class to discuss ideas on different modifications I could use to help with anything I felt uncomfortable doing. During classes, they also give instructions on modifications that can be used if something just doesn't feel right. It is important to listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard.

Have you started back?  If so, what has it been like after?

- Yes, I started back about ten weeks postpartum. I have only gone to a couple of classes and have been easing myself back into it. Since I took a few months off, my body needs some time to build back up to what it was once able to do. I continue to make modifications depending on how I feel that day. Ab exercises are probably the most difficult. I still feel a little sore where my scar is from my c-section with my first child. Overall, it feels great to be back taking classes and gives me more energy, which is needed now that I have two little ones who need me!

Do you have any advice for women considering VBAC or looking at exercise options during pregnancy?

- My advice is to make exercise a priority, especially while pregnant. It will make labor, delivery, and recovery much more manageable. Find something that you enjoy and you will be more likely to stick with it. For women considering VBAC, I encourage them to have a great support system, whether that be their husband, family member, doula, etc., who can provide encouragement while they are in labor. 

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