Challenges

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I asked the experts what their biggest challenges have been in running post-childbirth:

Becky: The biggest challenge was wanting to run before my body was ready and wanting to return to my old training schedule and mileage. Six weeks postpartum is a general guideline that actually doesn't reflect most women's healing time, especially for running. If I would have known and taken the pre-assessment for running readiness, my body would have failed.  I didn't know at the time. The second biggest challenge is time. 

Jackie: My body looking and feeling like a pile of mashed potatoes. I had a ridiculous milk supply so I was constantly engorged. Had to pump even after nursing. I would have to pump before I ran most times just to lessen the load of weight I was carrying around on my chest. Finding the time was also tough. So use to just going out and working out with zero time frame involved. I always run during [baby's] naps on the treadmill (and still do unless it’s the weekend) so sometimes I get a long run in and other times it would be a quick 20 min [run].

Cathy: Biggest challenge was probably dividing my time and energy properly between family and myself. Also, some of my kids were horrible sleepers, so training while exhausted some days was tough!

Gina: Two challenges...

1. Running despite feeling tired, exhausted, and just wanting to sleep.  It is so rewarding being a new mom but very exhausting.  Especially, the first time around when you are adjusting to all the changes within your own body (and lack of sleep) while trying to figure out breastfeeding, sleep routines, keeping the dog(s) exercised, maintaining a somewhat liveable environment (i.e. laundry, meals, etc.), all while trying to keep the little human alive 🙂.  Also, not wanting to tear a strip off your husband for taking over and letting the baby sleep on their chest (right before bed) while watching Netflix or playing video games lol... (only laughable now!)

2. Finding time to run is the second part of the challenge.  This often meant, putting your baby to bed/nap and running on the treadmill while watching the baby monitor... when all you really want to do is sleep!  This is without caffeine because you're scared of caffeinating that baby that will not nap 🙂. Also, trusting daddy with baby while you run (mommy-anxiety is normal and real). 


My reflection:

Obviously, time management is a reoccurring theme here. I plan to make time throughout the week to run for my mental health. My husband is very understanding that I need to run most days, otherwise I turn into a grumpy monster. I also expect that the lack of sleep will take a big toll on me, because right now I rely on my 8 hours per night, and I'm guessing that won't be a thing anymore once the baby gets here.


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