With running and other aspects of life you have to sometimes trust your gut instincts when making decisions that can affect your happiness. I once went to see a podiatrist to determine the cause of ankle pain I experienced while running and the podiatrist listened to my description of my symptoms, x-rayed my foot then called me and other runners crazy for running and then wanting to run after an injury.  I was totally planning to run after the injury and possibly see what could be done to be able to endure running through it.  I might be considered crazy but when you love something as much as I love running, you can’t stay away too long.  I eventually switched to another doctor because I preferred a podiatrist who was a runner as well and one who could understand and empathize with the crazy while sharing advice.

So, when I got pregnant with both of my kids I still had the crazy desire to run throughout my pregnancies.  This was how I personally stayed fit and healthy. There are mixed feelings depending on who you talk to about running or working out while pregnant and I only base my thoughts below on my own experience and the advice I received from my doctors.  

First get advice

For both of my pregnancies, I was labeled as high risk.  When I spoke to people who I knew had gone through pregnancies and were high risk some of them shared that I should take it easy and not exercise at all.  I spoke to my doctor and she felt confident though that because I lead an active lifestyle before becoming pregnant in both cases it was ok for me to continue working out.  The people I spoke to may have been advised to refrain from exercise because they were not active prior to their pregnancies or for some medical reason exercising could have an adverse reaction to a healthy birth.  It’s important to consult with your health care provider before you make a decision regarding whether you should exercise while pregnant.

Eat to happiness

Pregnancy can turn your whole world upside down. I have never had issues with food but I know people who had to change their diets because something no longer tasted good or smelled right to them.  My biggest craving was anything with ice like iced water and popsicles.  While having my second child I feared that the first would be mad at me for eating all his popsicles so I only ate them when he napped.  If you are a runner you may have a system that entails a particular pre-run meal or drink or a post run food item.  You should be prepared to make adjustments if needed to accommodate cravings or changes in food desires.  You may need to test different foods until you find a new system if you no longer desire the foods you did prior to your pregnancy.  You will also need to ensure you are eating to stay healthy during your term.  It’s important to take or eat your vitamins, proteins, carbs, fats, and fibers. 

Plan and prepare

Before a run, I would work out, stretch and do drills to prepare.  This is the same for a long run or race.  I would also plan what I would wear on the day of the run. As a pregnant runner, my stretching was very important to my success as a runner.  I was carrying more weight than my body was used to which could be a potential cause of injury while running.  I took a few prenatal yoga classes to also have an idea of body movements that were safe. 

In addition to your stretches, your clothing should be planned.  Make sure your running shoes still fit you and provide necessary comfort and support. Shoes have an expiration based on the number of miles you put on them so you should ensure your shoes are not expired.  You may need to ensure your outfit fits and isn’t uncomfortable.

If you are going on a long run you should ensure you know where your hydration stops will be or walk with water and you will need to also know where restrooms are on the run.    

Adjust as you go

It’s important to be flexible.  You may plan to run 10 miles but if your body doesn’t feel right before you meet that goal it’s ok to adjust.  You may also have a pace goal and sometimes your body might want to go slower or even faster. During my last pregnancy, I noticed that as I got bigger in my third trimester I ran slower. I also needed to take more rest breaks so in my third trimester I went on fewer long runs.  You have to listen to your body and adjust if needed, this is part of trusting your gut instincts.

As you develop the perfect algorithm to perfect running while pregnant be sure to enjoy the journey!

Keep moving!