Love getting your elusive runners high but having plans of falling pregnant or you are already pregnant?

The good news is there are absolutely no reasons to cease your running during pregnancy. As long as you have an uncomplicated pregnancy is it in fact still recommended to get in 150 minutes of exercise per week and running can definitely be part of those 150 minutes. 

I will however mention that if you have not regularly partaken in running previous to falling pregnant do not expect to be able to run very far or for very long before you may feel shortness of breath or some aches and pains. 

Like most things, practice makes perfect. Slowly build your way up. 

And if you were an avid runner previous to being pregnant just don’t expect to be able to run as far, as fast or as much! 

Respect the changes that your body is undertaking

Respect the changes that your body is undertaking such as increased weight and increased joint laxity. New aches and pain may arise, you probably will get tired easier and sweat more. These are all normal things so do not be disheartened. 

Now, when wanting to run post-partum it would be best to get your doctors clearance before returning to strenuous physical activity. A safe bet is to wait at least 12 weeks before returning to running. Post-partum the body undertakes a lot of healing, especially the pelvic floor and abdominal region, which are both very important areas that are put under strain while running. When returning to running it would be super beneficial to undertake a specific program to help strengthen and accustom the body so that when you do get back to running things go as smoothly as possible. 

If you have recently given birth and wish to get back to running, here at Unique Physio we can develop and guide you through a specific program to get you to where you want to be!