How long will I be able to continue running?

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So far (as of week 30), I have been able to continue running 5-6 days a week throughout pregnancy. I'm wondering how much longer I'll be able to continue.

How far into pregnancy were you able to continue running?

Jaclyn (Jackie): I ended up having a breech baby. Therefore I had a scheduled c-section at 39 weeks pregnant. I ran 5 miles the day before. I was lucky enough to not have any pressure down below, but instead, it always felt like she was trying to get out through my ribs.

Rebecca (Becky):  I was able to run for 38 weeks at a very reduced speed and mileage. 

Gina: 1st pregnancy 2 weeks until the due date, 2nd pregnancy 4 weeks until the due date. “Running” is used loosely, in my mind I felt fast, it probably looked like I was speed walking.  Used pelvic support to offload baby tummy.

Cathy: I was lucky in that I was able to run all the way through each of my 3 pregnancies. My first 1 was probably the toughest as my body hadn't stretched that way before...I started wearing a support belt 6ish months in to help with slight pains. I never pushed it. Sometimes I walked/ran as I got bigger. Listened to my body. But I was able to run right up to all of my due dates.

Reesa: I ran all the way through all of my pregnancies.

What the internet says: Most runners stop during the third trimester (28 weeks and on). (Burrell, 2021) 

My reflection: Among my interviewees, I found it surprising that they were able to continue running so close to their due dates. I don't believe this is the norm with most runners. My interview with Darolyn was less formal (it was on a run) but she mentioned that she did not run very far into her pregnancies because she was not feeling good. Another friend of mine, could not run past the first trimester. So far, (at 30 weeks) I have been able to continue running and I feel good, but I understand if I have to stop or slow down. I have also decreased my volume considerably, it's down to 25-30 miles per week, where it usually is closer to 60 miles a week. I am trying to run when I feel like it and when it's not too hot outside. I do have a support belt, but it doesn't always feel good to run with. I guess I'm still figuring it out.


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