Pregnancy and Running: 5 Things To Consider When You Have A Bun In The Oven
That being said, some of our regular activities like eating, drinking and even sleeping change in a big way. This includes the ability to continue strenuous physical activity like running.
The big question for mother’s to be who are runners, is, “Is it safe for me to run while I am pregnant?” The answer is different for every woman. Here are five things to consider before hanging up your favorite running shoes.
1. Get The Green Light From Your Health Care Provider:
You’re running for two now. The big question here is if you are in great physical shape with no medical or pregnancy issues and are already a runner, you’re probably ok to continue running as long as it is comfortable.
If you are new to running, start with a fast walk and then increase the pace as you get stronger. Remember to stretch before and after you exercise to warm up muscles, joints, and the respiratory system.
2. Stay Cool and Keep Hydrated:
Believe it or not, pregnant women overheat quicker than usual. Maybe that’s where they get the expression, “She’s got a bun in the oven.”
With this in mind, refrain from running on extremely hot and humid days. Drink plenty of water and fluids before, during and after your run to stay hydrated. Wear loose-fitting lightweight clothing, too.
3. Wear Supportive Running Shoes:
Pregnancy causes feet to swell one day and not the other. Select supportive shoes with laces so you can loosen or tighten them as needed.
Pay special attention to the arch and ankle because as your baby grows, your balance will change and supporting your feet will prevent injuries and sore feet.
4. Wear A Supportive Athletic Bra:
As your baby grows, so does your belly and your breasts. Your breasts will also become more sensitive too.
Wear a very supportive bra that is made to grow with you. As your stomach grows, you may want to invest in a belly support band to support it, too.
5. Keep Away Skin Darkening:
Pregnant women are more susceptible to melasma, pregnancy-related skin darkening.
Wearing a sun hat and SPF 30 or higher sunblock will keep your pregnant skin, beautiful skin.
6. Watch For Warning Signs:
As you go from trimester to trimester, it is important to carefully watch for warning signs that you are pushing your self to hard.
Some include feeling dizzy or faint, pain in your joints and ligaments, exhaustion during or after a run, extremely sore or shaky muscles, a morning resting heart rate that is 10 beats higher than normal, vaginal bleeding, chest pain or even contractions.