Summer Running = Fall Races – 3 of My Favorite for Moms Who Run
Special post: A Running Mom’s Guide to 3 Races in Fargo
Races are baaaacccckkkk!!
Whew, sorry just a moment of pure joy from a runner who had a hard time giving up races last year.
One of my favorites – Go Far Woman (photo used with permission from Go Far Woman)
As much as I prefer running in the winter, I have to acknowledge why summer is a great time to run. The days are longer. The only layering to worry about is sunscreen. The Vitamin D and sunlight are great for the body and mind. And you get those sweet shorts, tank top and sock tan lines. Wait, no not that, but the other reasons are great.
One of the other reasons I love summer running is because there are so many late summer and early fall races. In my latest post for Fargo Mom, I break down three of my favorite local, upcoming races – and I do it thru a special lens: a mom’s perspective.
For those looking to take the plunge and sign up for your first race or you seasoned racers who are eager to get back on the start line, have a read: A Running Mom’s Guide to 3 Races in Fargo.
I hope to see you out there on the start line!
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. Please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life if you like what you are reading and want to read more articles on running, fitness, occasional thoughts on parenting, and overall wellness.
Tips to Make it Work as a Runner and Breastfeeding Mom
Special post: A How-To for Running Moms, from Fargo Mom
Feed your needs, feed your babe. You can do both.
I recently began a new writing adventure, joining the team of writers at Fargo Mom. It is locally-focused site dedicated to moms, with content written by moms.
For my first post, I approached a very specific, very personal topic: Breastfeeding and Running – Tips to Make it Work
I chose this topic because it is one that I believe affects a lot of new moms and one that I believe my firsthand experience can help. If this is one for you, please have a read and let me know about your challenges and victories as a running mom! If it is not, ’til next time.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. Please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life if you like what you are reading and want to read more articles on running, fitness, occasional thoughts on parenting, and overall wellness.
Spring Cleaning for the Mind, the Soul, and the Blog
“The best way to find out what we need is to get rid of what we don’t.”
The idea of spring cleaning has been on my mind lately. But not typical cleaning the house. I mean, I have two little boys. The second my husband and I finish cleaning and take in that moment of pride, ahhh the house is cle….damn it, the toddler just dumped out all his cars, the baby blew out through another outfit, and somehow the sink is full of dishes again.
While the dream of maintaining a spotless house is on the back burner for, well, at least several years now, the spring cleaning I’ve been working on is me.
Professionally, I’m trying to clear out ideas and think of fresh, new ways to approach projects and my work in general. I’m working on decluttering my brain from negativity and staying focused on what I can control. 
Personally, I’m working on having a clean, uncluttered mind as well. This includes more mindfulness and being fully present in moments vs. scatterbrained multitasking and losing sight of what really matters.
Another area of my personal efforts of spring cleaning is this blog. I haven’t gone thru and cleaned out old posts since before I switched over from my old blog (which was a few years ago – not months, years, yikes). So it was time.
Time to clean up and clean out older posts that are no longer reflective of me and this blog. Time to get rid of posts with negative tone. Time to ditch posts that don’t showcase my best writing efforts.
Within the past couple of years, I’ve really tried to shift my writing to be positive and uplifting, while still approaching topics that are tough and not sugarcoating. It is a tricky balance that I’m really trying to strike, one that stays true to who I am today and also who I have been up until this point.
Have you taken a spring cleaning approach to anything in your life? Straight up cleaning and decluttering the house, the garage, the car, or in a different, less tangible sense like mine? The comments are all yours so please share.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. Please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life if you like what you are reading and want to read more articles on running, fitness, occasional thoughts on parenting, and overall wellness. Also, if you ever need to feel better about yourself because you love to eat, I’m here for you – I LOVE to eat 🙂
Is it Best to Run Solo or Have a Running Buddy?
“The best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago. The next best time is today.”
There were days I used to be really organized. I was on the ball with everything. I would look ahead and plan for things that were coming. Back in the day, I used to do those things. How I fondly remember those days.
And then I had children.
National Workout Buddy Day – Ahem, Belated
Okay, I should give myself more credit. I’m still pretty organized and on the ball; still a planner and work ahead on things. I mean, I started planning my oldest son’s Valentines Day box in late January. I have all my youngest son’s milk organized and portioned out days in advance. I schedule all their appointments and get them on the calendar…I’m starting to see a pattern.
Yep, it’s all about them now. While I do make time for myself and my husband, it’s definitely not the same.
Take my blog in general, even this entry, for example. I no longer blog every Sunday morning. I no longer plan ahead to have series of posts or clever real-world tie-ins. Like today, I’m here to talk about workout buddies and, as I write this, I just missed National Workout Buddy Day.
But there’s a saying out there, the one I used to kick off this blog. Sure it would have been better to talk about workout buddies ahead of the national day but the next best time is now. So let’s talk about workout buddies – specifically, running buddies.
One of my favorites to bring on a run
Run Solo or With a Running Buddy
Do you have a workout buddy? Do you like to run with others, just one or a big group? Or do you find you run better alone?
There are plenty of runners who are very strict and loyal to their method of running. They always run solo. They must run with their training group for long runs. They only run with their dog on non-speed work days.
While some swear that running is only fun with friends, others believe if you’re going to do it right, you have to do it alone. So what should you do? What is the best way to run – solo or with others?
There’s No Wrong Way to Run
Introverts and extroverts, rejoice. The answer is, there is no answer – at least, no right or wrong answer. The best way to run is the best way that works for you. And it doesn’t always have to be the same.
Think about it, there are plenty of different ways to run. That’s one of the things I most love about the sport. Depending on the day and what works best for you, there are different ways to do the “same” workout, aka, get in a run.
You can run fast or slow. Run a short distance or long run. Run outside or on the treadmill.
Same goes for a running partner. You can hit the pavement with a friend – human or furry. You can find a local running group – for weekday runs or just long runs. You can join a pace group on race day – and stick with it the whole way or break away if the mood strikes.
That’s the best part of all, you don’t have to be locked into your choice. You can do whatever works for you at the time.
A Mix of Running Buddies
When I first began running, I did all my long runs with a friend. We were training towards a common goal and were absolutely essential to keeping each other on track and positive.
Love running races with my cuz, Jordan
When I started training for my first marathon, I did all my long runs with my former boyfriend. He was faster than me so a great pacer, plus he was experienced to help me with things like route planning and mid-run fuel.
When my dog, Burton, was old enough to start running, he became my go-to running buddy, whether I was going two miles or ten. On a related note, here’s an older post about the pros and cons of running with dogs.
Then my goals became bigger and I opted to run alone. In addition to being able to selfishly focus on just me, I found I loved the peace and solitude that came with running alone (and I’m a headphones-free runner so it quite literally is just me out there).
I still love the peace and “me” time of solo runs. But in recent years, I have also come back to a love of running with others.
I became a pacer and love running in groups. I wrote a blog awhile back about why to run with a pacer and why not to run with a pacer. I became a mother and love taking my son with me in the stroller. And I became less concerned with my time and distance and more concerned with just running to run. I’ve run with a friend for her first marathon, my aunt when she wanted to place top 10 in the local 5k, and my cousin and I just signed up for our next race together.
Yet, I still crave those solo days, the ones where it’s just me. Sometimes that means I’m outside, taking in the peace of my quiet neighborhood. Other days that means I’m on the treadmill, rewatching New Girl and trying not to faceplant whenever Winston says something hilarious.
The point is, run with others, run solo, it doesn’t matter – all that matters is the run. However you do it, however it works best for you, keep on running.
Runners, now it’s your turn to share. Do you prefer to run solo or with others? Does it depend on if it’s a weekday run, long run, or race day? The comments are all yours so please share.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
Yes, Wave at Other Runners When Running Outside
“Make waves.”
We’ve all been there. You’re out for a run.
Whether listening to music, dialed into a podcast, or, if you’re like me, using no headphones at all, you’re totally in your world.
Maybe you’re focused on breathing, concentrating on form, or, if you’re like me, thinking about food – ALL the food.
Then, it happens. Another runner is approaching. It brings the big question: “Do I wave?” If you’re like me, the answer is yes. Yes, always wave. And here are 3 reasons why.
1. Give Yourself a Boost
When you do something nice, it makes you feel better. I’m pretty sure there’s some science that can back me up on all the ways being nice to others improves your mood, boosts your energy level, and offers other benefits. But rather than fact-check myself, I’m just going to say it with confidence – you can’t feel worse if you’ve done something nice for someone else. And waving at another runner is a nice gesture.
If you’re slumping mid-run or need a kick in the butt to pick up the pace, the opportunity to wave might be the boost you need. In addition to the kindness factor, there’s that little solidarity moment, knowing someone else is in it, too. So do it.
2. Give the Other Person a Boost
One of the reasons there’s hesitation to wave at another runner is risking rejection. No one wants to put out a wave and not get one back. It’s like going in for a high-five and being left hanging.
I don’t care how awkward I look – I’m giving the wave.
Even if the other runner doesn’t wave back, take comfort in the fact you likely made them feel good by giving them a wave. Maybe they were struggling or reached the point in the run where all they can think is, “everything hurts and I’m dying.” We’ve all been there and we runners are all in it together. Why not offer some motivation to each other.
Also, I think everyone could use extra kindness right now. We may be divided in numerous ways but health, wellness, and happiness are universal greats. So give your fellow runner a wave.
3. Safety
Okay, so this one isn’t geared towards waving at other runners. This one is all about waving to drivers. It’s still a reason to give a wave so hear me out.
When approaching a crosswalk and another car is present, it’s always a gamble to keep going, even if you have the right of way. Drivers are often in a hurry. Most are looking at other cars to see if they can peel out, not looking out for pedestrians to yield.
I’m a huge fan of giving a wave to drivers, any and all that I come in contact with while running. And more than waving, it’s making eye contact and acknowledging that they see me. I believe by doing this, the next time they come to a stop sign or light, they may be more inclined to look for runners.
I’m not saying we can make the world safer for all pedestrians just by waving…but if that’s your takeaway from reading this, I’m here for it.
Speaking of safety – I know it’s only February but summer running will be here soon. Here are tips to stay safe running in the summer. Also, daylight is growing by the day but it’s still pretty dark out there so here’s how to run safely when it’s dark.
Okay, runners – time to sound off. Where do you stand on the wave? Do you always wave at other runners? Why or why not? Do you prefer a simple head nod? The comments are all yours so please share.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
What New Year’s Resolutions Can Teach Us About Saying Goodbye to 2020
“Good riddance.”
Raise your hand if you’re ready for 2020 to be over? I know, I know – does that really need to be asked? I don’t think I’ve seen one person expressing anything but an attitude of good riddance to the year, whether in actual conversations or what’s being shared online.
However, I’m a bit concerned with everyone’s “fuck off, 2020 – bring on 2021!” attitude because I feel it’s setting up a lot of disappointment. And, perhaps the worst part, even sadder days ahead.
Lessons of New Year’s Resolutions
Before I get into that, let’s take a look at something that’s equally popular as we head to the end of the year, something that’s not unique to 2020: New Year’s Resolutions.
Just about every year since I started blogging, I share thoughts on New Year’s Resolutions – and those thoughts aren’t exactly the type of motivational, uplifting, you-go-get-em! ones that most people would expect.
It may have looked different this year, but running was not canceled.
I’m not a fan of resolutions, never have been. I won’t get into the why, you can search if you’re really interested. But I do think New Year’s Resolutions have a tremendous opportunity to teach us something right now, as we head into 2021.
What’s 2021 Going to be Like…Really
Does everyone think the clock will strike midnight at 2021 will magically be better? It won’t be – I mean, it’ll likely be a better year by the end of it but it’s not going to happen overnight and many of the same things we’re going through right now are going to follow us into the new year.
Other than college football playoff games, New Year’s Day likely won’t bring anything different or exciting than the days before.
Now there’s nothing wrong with having hope that 2021 will bring better days. I think every day we wake up, we hope for a better day than before. My worry is those who have unrealistic expectations of what the New Year will bring. I hate to see anyone being set up for even sadder days ahead, the let down of this idea in their heads that things are going to be so much better when, in reality, not much will change, at least right away. This is where the New Year’s Resolutions lesson comes in.
The same hope/let down pattern that could be coming with the pandemic is the same one that comes with New Year’s Resolutions. There’s the excitement and the optimism (both of which are great – I love excitement and optimism!) but because of unrealistic expectations, lack of planning, even circumstances outside of our control, there’s often disappointment that often follows. There are slip-ups, bumps in the road, and that initial high of getting started slowly fades.
Side note, for those making a resolution related to fitness, feel free to take a look at this post on what to expect and how to succeed at a New Year’s Resolution to get fit.
While it’s a great idea to set goals and get pumped up, and want to go balls to the wall on something, the approach of slow, steady, and realistic change is the better recipe for success. I think we can apply those same basic principles as we navigate into 2021 which will surely be another year dominated by the pandemic.
The shirt says it all – thankful for this 2020 baby.
Rather than get pumped up that everything is going to be awesome and this will finally be the time, let’s look to smaller, realistic moments. Be excited about getting a vaccine…just don’t expect to get it right away (unless you’re in one of the priority categories). Look forward to meeting your friends for lunch at a favorite restaurant…just know that capacity limits will still likely exist for awhile. And I’m sure plenty of people are ready to rip off their mask and shop with their nose and mouth free to the outside world…but it’s likely that masks will still be the expectation for quite some time.
Again, I’m not saying we can’t be hopeful for what 2021 brings – I’m saying, let’s be sure to keep our expectations in check and prepare for plenty of bumps along the way.
Grateful…for…2020??
There’s one more note I want to leave with, the other downside of wishing away 2020. Let’s ensure we’re not doing so without taking the time to find our gratitude.
Did the year suck? Kind of, yeah. People lost jobs, loved ones, and more. Everything was canceled – except running. Running is not canceled.
The experiences I missed out on pale in comparison to what many people have gone through so I’m not even going to get into it. Instead, I’m focused on acknowledging the good. I’m grateful to still have my job and be able to do it from the safety of my home. I’m grateful to have given birth to another healthy boy and had excellent care from a team of healthcare workers.
There are some good things that came out of this year. I hope everyone can find something to be grateful for, something they wouldn’t have had or experienced had it not been for COVID-19. Remember the power of gratitude – acknowledge it every day.
What lessons did you learn from 2020? What is your hope for 2021? The comments are all yours so please share.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
Why a Morning Routine Matters and How to Set One That Works
“Days are expensive – spend each one wisely.”
Want 12 weeks to go by really, really fast? Have a baby.
Okay, don’t have a baby for that reason. But for real, the weeks after having a baby are perhaps the fastest of your life. The days and most nights are painfully long, but those weeks are short.
I use 12 weeks as the example because that’s the typical FMLA time allotted to working mothers in this country – some moms get more and some, sadly, get less but that’s the standard. And mine just came up recently and I’ve been transitioning back into working mom mode – this time with two little boys instead of one. Oh boy…
That face you make when it’s time to go back to work!
My first week back to work was met with the usual mix of tears and scatterbrain combined with relief and excitement. But it was also a reminder to me of the importance of a morning routine.
Why a Morning Routine Matters
A few weeks ago, when baby Chase started sleeping well and waking at a more predictable time, I got into a nice morning routine. Not my usual routine but one that works when baby is the primary focus of the day. And it led to better days than when I didn’t have one, for both of us. Chase started sleeping better at naps and had happier awake time, while I felt in control of my day and was able to get at least a few things done.
Now that we’re going back into work life mode, I need to re-establish a morning routine that prioritizes me as much as my family. Why am I so concerned about this? Why does a morning routine matter?
Last week, I didn’t have a new morning routine figured out at all. And you know what? My mornings weren’t great. I felt rushed, scattered, and not ready to be my best for the day – it sucked.
A solid morning routine is sooo important. It quite literally sets the tone for the entire day. Start the day aimless and unorganized, be ready for that theme to carry through the rest of the day.
A morning routine can just include a few quiet moments for yourself.
Re-Establishing a Morning Routine
So now begins a time when I’m going to get back to establishing my new morning routine. As I work on this, I’ll draw inspiration from my previously successful morning routine, feel free to take a look back at that blog if you’re looking for inspiration for your own routine.
Or, check out this one with 5 tips for a good morning routine.
Things like journaling, mindful moments, and simply sitting down to enjoy breakfast and coffee are at the top of the “must” list for what I need in my routine. Those are a few simple things that make me feel in control and ready to start the day.
If you’re looking to better establish your own morning routine, start by thinking about what makes you feel in control and be at your best. And start small – like my list above, that’s not much. Eventually I’d like to get back to starting some days with exercise or yoga but right now, I’m starting with the basics.
As I work on this, I’ll also draw inspiration from others, those of you who believe in the benefits of a morning routine and have successful morning rituals. So, if you have that to share, please leave a comment. I’d love it!
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
Celebrate Your Fitness Journey, Where You’re At
“Step up, show up, never give up”
Two children. I have two children now.
It doesn’t seem as surreal as it did in the first few weeks but now, nearly two months in, it’s sunk in as new reality and it’s hard to remember the time before two, even one.
My first run back with Chase – outside the womb
Going from one to two is huge and I’ve found myself with an even smaller amount of free time. And that’s okay for now.
Between the pandemic, the changing world of social media, and everything else going on, blogs have been sparing. And I imagine it’s going to stay that way for awhile. But every now and then, I’ll have a spark of inspiration or a story to tell and I’ll be back. That’s where we’re at today.
The Ongoing Fitness Journey
Fitness and, in particular, a fitness journey, is such a funny thing. It’s ongoing, it never ends, one never reaches the point of, “Yay, I achieved my goal of being fit and healthy, now I can stop!”
I was reminded of this last week, when I started running again. I ran two days before I gave birth so it had been just over seven weeks since my last run. I started with five minutes running at about an 11:30 min/mile pace, walked, then seven minutes, hitting that one magic mile.
I remember my first run back after having a baby, my first son, how excited I was to run one mile (and without peeing myself). I remember my first half marathon back four months later, then my first marathon back just over a year later. All were victories and a reminder of what my body can do when I show up, put in the work, and take care of it.
But back to this time around. By my third run back at it, later that same week I started back up again, I improved to 2.1 miles – without stopping to walk – at a 10:20 pace. And I felt great about it.
Making progress, feeling proud
Last year at this time I was wrapping up my season of half marathon pacing, running a comfortable 8:00 min/mile pace, and priming for marathon training. And I felt great about where I was.
Celebrate Where You’re At, Right Now
Those two running scenarios are vastly different. Yet, what they have in common is I felt great about them. They’re reflective of me showing up, putting in the work, and taking care of myself – and being at my best.
It’s a good reminder to celebrate where you’re at, right now. Try not to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, or even your past self – though a little healthy competitiveness is great to keep pushing!
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if you can run a 9:00 min/mile, squat your bodyweight, or finish a 15-minute walk around the neighborhood. What matters is showing up, putting in the work, and taking care of yourself.
Never forget to take the time to appreciate your health and celebrate what your body can do. Mine made two healthy humans and can still get out there and pound the pavement – I’m feeling great about that.
Have you had a scenario like mine where your fitness level has changed but the way you feel hasn’t?
The comments are all yours so please share your thoughts.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
Virtual Races in 2020 – Running the Fargo Marathon
“Virtual insanity”
2020 has been a tough year for runners – I don’t say that to discount that it has been a tough year for pretty much everyone.
But I’m here today to talk about runners and shine the spotlight on one particularly awesome group of runners here in my hometown of Fargo, ND.
Most races this year have been canceled or changed to a virtual format. While virtual running isn’t the same as race day, I saw a handful of people embrace it.
The Fargo Marathon Virtual Race
The Fargo Marathon, one of my favorite annual races, succumbed to the COVID-19 curse of 2020, having to cancel its in-person race and switch to a virtual format this year.
One of my last runs of the summer – hot and hard but great
While it had to be a bummer for those who planned to run, I was pleasantly surprised to see how many people ran their own Fargo Marathon this weekend. One of my friends really went for it, continued to train hard all summer, and achieved his goal of a sub 2-hour half marathon (shoutout to Jake Kohl from State Fargo).
In addition to all the runners, several others in the community were there to support the effort with homemade water stations and plenty of cheering and encouragement.
Why Running Matters
It’s just the kind of thing we need to see right now. People staying committed to their goals, continuing to work hard even when the typical reward isn’t dangling in front of them, making the best of a hard situation, and doing something positive for themselves and others around them.
Sure, virtual running isn’t the same – but we still get to run. I was grateful to run a couple short virtual races this year and still be healthy enough to run during pregnancy.
Congrats to everyone who ran their virtual Fargo Marathon! And with that, if you’ve continued to run, train, and run virtually this year, hats off to you as well. You’re all making me excited (and only a little jealous) to return to running in a few weeks once I have this baby out of me and I’m healed and strong enough to get back out there – even if there are no races, I still can’t wait to run, just run.
Because, let’s not forget: running is not canceled.
Have you run a virtual race this year? What kept you committed to that goal?
The comments are all yours so please leave one.
Connect with me @lindsayinreallife on Instagram or @lindsayIRL on Twitter. And please subscribe to Wellness in Real Life so you get every new blog post right to your inbox – bonus, I haven’t been blogging as much lately so don’t worry, you won’t get a ton from me ☺
4 Things to Know About Running When Pregnant
“What to expect when you’re expecting”
At this time, during my first pregnancy, I hung up my running shoes. It was 32 weeks and I had reached the point of it being too uncomfortable and slightly painful. It was hard but I knew it was time to take a break and plan to get back into it after baby’s arrival.
This time, 32 weeks in, I’m still going – strong, yet slow and not without some aches, pains, and soreness but still enjoying it and feeling good.
For all the pregnant (or hoping to be) mamas out there hoping to continue running during pregnancy, here are a few thoughts and tips from my own experience, as told by each trimester.
It’s not for everyone but running while pregnant is doable.
These are just a few things I’d like to share based on what I’ve encountered. Both of my pregnancies have been different and yours of course will be, too so it’s crucial to discuss running or any type of exercise with your doctor.
1. First Trimester: Exhaustion
If you’ve never been pregnant, you might assume the first trimester is the easiest to keep running. You haven’t yet gained weight, that load in your belly is the size of a pea vs. a pineapple.
Make no mistake – running in the first trimester is no easy task. So much is changing and your body is working hard to create this new life form. When I was pregnant the first time, I was training for a marathon during my first trimester. I attributed the added fatigue and struggle to the fact I was training during the hot summer months but, looking back, a lot of that was because of how hard my body was already working.
Some days, it may be tough to get out for a run. During my second pregnancy I felt sick every day for the first 14 weeks and running was the one thing that made me feel better – I just had to really push myself to get out the door! If it helps you to feel better, absolutely keep trying to go. But if not, give yourself a break. Your body is already working overtime.
2. Second Trimester: New Aches and Pains
Aches and pains are nothing new to runners. I’ve been known to throw around the phrase, “Everything hurts and I’m dying” once or twice during peak marathon training season (okay, maybe more than once or twice).
The second trimester might bring new aches and pains, ones you’ve never felt before. I had never even heard of the pelvic floor before I became pregnant but I quickly learned it can be the primary reason for soreness in the lower back, pelvis, and groin area for mother runners.
This is one that’s of most importance to discuss with a doctor. You may be able to avoid or manage it with the right exercises and breathing therapy, or it may be a sign that it’s time to ease up on running until postpartum.
3. Third Trimester: Putting on Shoes
If you’re lucky enough to make it to the third trimester and still be running, that’s awesome. One of the biggest challenges, aside from the two I’ve already shared: putting on your shoes.
For real, with a watermelon-size belly making in difficult to bend and reach, the simple act of putting on your shoes might be the biggest challenge you face (not so bad, right?!).
You’ll be back at it soon – & with a cute lil sidekick.
A few other things to keep in mind – fewer miles, slower pace, more hydration and, of course, more food. If you haven’t yet already had to scale back mileage or pace, increase your hydration or food intake, you’ll likely need to do so during the third trimester.
4. Fourth Trimester: Easing Back Into It
The weeks after giving birth are often referred to as the fourth trimester – an oxymoron, yes, but an important phase in pregnancy? Absolutely.
Getting back to the miles is the goal of many mother runners. The best advice I can share, along with the third trimester rules of minimal mileage, slow pace, and lots of hydration and food (especially if you’re breastfeeding), is to wait.
It’s easy to want to jump right back into it but let your doctor advise on when it’s okay to start running again. Your mind might be ready but your body needs time to heal and build up strength (again, the pelvic floor is a big deal to keep in mind).
Then, when you get the all clear and you’re lacing up for your first run (with a much smaller belly in the way, yay!), give yourself grace. You’ll likely be motivated and energized to get back at it, yet also exhausted and burned out from little sleep, lots of feeding, and 24/7 caring for another human.
Start with half a mile walking, then half a mile running, or some other run/walk mix strategy. Take it easy on pace and try to enjoy the effort more than push it. Be sure to hydrate even more than you think you need to and replace the calories with a good snack (if you’re breastfeeding, this is especially important to keep your supply healthy – something I struggled with big time with my first baby).
To sum it all up, it can be hard to take a break from running while pregnant. But before you know it, you’ll be back at it! Here’s to healthy, happy running and healthy, happy pregnancies.
Runner moms, did you run while you were pregnant? Or did you take a break, voluntarily or because of struggle? Every moms story is different and I’d love to know yours so please share in the comments.
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