I signed up for the OUC Half Marathon before I knew I was pregnant. Obviously, I knew there was a chance that I COULD be pregnant when I ran it, but it really wasn’t going to stop me. I was running this damn race.
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When I spammed Paula with a picture of my positive pregnancy test (I’m pretty sure the title of that email was “Holy Sh*t”), one of the first things she wrote back was, “You’re going to run the OUC Half pregnant!” (We really do talk about running all.the.time.) Before then, it really hadn’t crossed my mind (mainly because I was thinking about how we were REALLY going to have to buy that minivan now) so I quickly did the math and realized that if all went well, I would be a little more than 17 weeks pregnant. Gulp.
I wasn’t really sure how I was going to make this whole running while pregnant thing work. It was definitely a trial-by-error, day-to-day process (oh, kinda like dealing with a newborn!) – but in the end here are some tips that have worked for me.
Create a Training Plan and Stick With It
When I made my training plan for the half — I DID know I was pregnant so I was able to take into account a few factors. The first being exhaustion, the second being nausea, and the third being motivation. I don’t know how successful I would have been following through – especially during long runs – if I hadn’t had a plan.
For the first few weeks I kept my long runs to a minimum and focused on just doing as much running as I could without overburdening myself. The hardest part, for me, wasn’t the running. Sure I felt slower and had less energy, but the real challenge was dealing with the aftermath. My nausea would go away while running (or really doing anything active), but it would hit with a vengeance after. As the weeks went on, my nausea lessened and my energy recovered, but I started feeling the effects of being pregnant a 3rd time in 7 years. It was as if as soon as my hormone levels increased – my body bounced right into being into the 2nd/3rd trimesters. This meant a loss of the center of balance and yes, a smooshed bladder. The motivation was there, but it was definitely slower, and hurt a hell of a lot more. Having a plan got me through ALL of this. Knowing I just needed to push myself through 2 runs a week and knowing exactly how much mileage I was going to be putting in got me through though. So long story short – making a plan and STICKING with the plan was 100% worth it.
Drink Water, Water, Water, and More Water
While eating was hit or miss through the first trimester, one thing I never went without was water. I hate water, so this is huge, but it order to keep myself in check I had to drink a ton of it. Still do.
The HOW to drink the water while running was a challenge. I couldn’t just pick up a 12oz bottle of water and know it would last through the entire run like before (have I mentioned I’m part camel?). First, I tried running a 10-miler with Paula wearing my CamelBak. It worked fine, but I hated how it felt on my back and chest (I’m willing to give it another shot, just not right now). So I ended up picking up a CamelBak Podium Chill Bottle and it was love.
It was challenging to run with at first, but after a few runs I almost felt naked running without it! It really became second nature. I also started adding Nuun to the water (Grape flavor for me please!) (PS – I checked and it’s definitely pregnancy safe) and I was amazed at how much better I felt AFTER my run (there’s something to that electrolytes are good for you thing). During my long runs I would stop halfway at either McDonald’s or a gas station to refill. I figured that during a race I could always supplement at water stops (I didn’t end needing to!) – but it was definitely better to take in too much water than not enough – especially on hot days.
Find a Friend or Two
This is just common advice for any runner: Running is always better with friends!
This is my attempt to recreate our finish line picture THAT NOBODY CAUGHT. (Source)
While I did a majority of my long runs alone, there were a few key runs that I did not want to do to save my life, where running with friends pulled me through. The biggest one was my 12-miler that I did a few weeks ago with Meg.
And of course, the grande finale – with Paula!
Running with friends not only gives you a chance to catch up and be silly — but it also takes your mind off of everything. Pain? What pain?
I’m hoping to keep up my runs with friends while I am still running. If you’re in Orlando and you want to run {slow} together — let me know!
Listen to Your Body and Know Your Weaknesses
Again, this is key to any kind of training – but it’s especially important when you’re pregnant! When I was pregnant with B the rule of thumb on exercise was “Don’t get your heart rate above 140bpm.”
I had a heart rate monitor and everything – and let me tell you, keeping it below 140p is NOT as easy as it sounds! I talked to my Dr. about it at one of my first appointments and he assured me that as long as I wasn’t trying out anything new and I was already conditioned it was OK. As long as I could talk, I wasn’t exerting myself TOO much and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.
So on Saturday, I knew there would be ankle pain, foot pain, and hip pain and I don’t mind pushing through that. But the minute there was any kind of stomach or belly pain I would have stop STAT (thankfully, I didn’t experience this). I was expecting tightening on and off (basically Braxton Hicks contractions) – but thankfully, I didn’t really experience any of that either.
I knew, thanks to training, where my trouble spots were. My ankles apparently think I am Gumby and are soooo stretchy it’s insane. I’m pretty sure my hips will soon be following. I also knew there was going to be brick… but honestly know amount of “knowing” and even training on brick – can prepare you for brick. Brick sucks (but it’s really pretty and it makes the cars drive slower), but thank goodness for tape!
Fuel Smart
I typically eat a Clif Bar 30-45 minutes before a half and then take a gel at Mile 7-8. I still ate the Clif Bar like I usually do, but since I knew I was going to be out there longer I decided to take 2 gels (one at Mile 5 and another at Mile 10).
FYI – This is my FAVORITE flavor EVER.
I was never hungry and I never felt like my energy was depleted, so I’m thinking the strategy worked! I refueled after the race with a mini-wheat bagel and a carton of chocolate milk. It definitely wasn’t better than refueling with beer, but it will do. For now.
But really, running a half is just as much about FUELING smart as it is training smart. If you have low energy levels at Mile 10 – then you should probably look into eating more or taking a gel for a boost.
Don’t Be Afraid to Share Your News
One thing I WISH I had done was wear a shirt that said something about being pregnant (ditto for Paula. Even if she was running for one, she was pacing for two). While I could tell I was pregnant, I know that it wasn’t 100% evident to others (plus, the bib really did a good job of hiding the bump). There were a few times where we stopped to walk AND PEOPLE STOPPED CHEERING FOR US. Or they would shout – “Get back to running Michelle!” Obviously, they had no idea so I didn’t let it bother me. But I’m sure if my shirt said “Running for Two” or “Baby on Board” I would have gotten a lot more cheers. Or at least people wouldn’t STOP cheering.
Tee hee.
Have Fun!
While running is great exercise – I don’t just do it because it’s great for my health. It can also be a TON of fun. This doesn’t have to change when pregnant — in fact, pregnancy gives you an excuse to let loose, stop focusing on time (not that everyone does this – but I do!), and just enjoy it.
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I can now say that running and racing while in the earlier stages of pregnancy has been an awesome experience! I’m REALLY hoping that I can keep it up throughout my pregnancy – but I know if a time comes when/if I have to stop I’ve made the most of it!
Did you or would you run while pregnant? How crazy do you think I am?
Congrats! I’m glad that the rules on exercising while pregnant have changed. My heart rate can’t get above 150 because my ICD will zap me. Well, “pace” me or some business. I don’t know, haven’t tried and don’t want to find out. But I’m proud of you and happy you’re having #3! I’m assuming that you are not finding out if it’s a boy or girl this time, just for fun!
Thank you 🙂 We’re excited and nope – we aren’t finding of the sex this time. I am already loving the surprise element (I think it’s a boy).
UGH on the heart rate getting over 150. No zapping! I don’t want you to find out either.
I’ve been surprised, but running has been easier on my heart rate than other forms of exercise. Of course, I’m not trying to sprint or anything silly like that.
How are you doing otherwise??
You are the cutest running prego person ever! Seriously. You can’t even see your bump in the pics! And boo to those whores that stopped cheering.
Thank you!
Yeah Paula and I were like — seriously?? We’re still running an effing half marathon — cheer for us bitches!
My doctor told me to ignore the 140 rule because I’d already been working out before getting pregnant. I still think I’ve held back a lot though. The last 5k I ran at 25 weeks J was literally holding me back to prevent me from running any faster. I felt fine, but I freaked him out anyway. He might be a little paranoid. 😉 I actually ran a little yesterday and was shocked that my heart rate was still OK. . .and that it did nothing to encourage this kid to move out.
Yes – I’m SOOO happy they changed those guidelines because 140 is silly if you are conditioned. Although, 140 is not as silly if you’re not in shape though, so I guess it’s still a decent benchmark.
I think it’s awesome that you ran at almost 40 weeks! I hope she gets the memo soon that it’s time to come out and play. I seriously feel for you!
Congrats on your half! This is my first time visiting your blog. I’m also a pregnant runner, but finding that I’m having to really take lots of walking breaks the past couple of weeks or having major cramps. Until about 22 weeks though, things were great! It is so funny to see the looks you get when the bump appears- I’m in a women’s weight lifting class and get some serious “Should you really be doing this” looks?
Yay another pregnant runner! How many weeks are you now? I stalked your blog yesterday (I promise, I’ll comment soon) and saw you are also having #3. Congrats!!
I LOVE that you are doing a weight lifting class!! There are at least 3 other pregnant woman who work out at the same time as me at my gym, so it feels less hardcore. It was not like that when I was pregnant with my first two though – I got the craziest looks. The best was went I spilled a bottle of water on the floor when I was probably 38 weeks with my son. People scattered from me thinking my water broke!
I don’t have kids, but if I ever have kids, I plan on running, biking & swimming as much as I can, as long as it’s safe. I think it’s great that you’re running and still staying active! I’ve seen ladies at some of my sprint triathlons that have to be at least 6 months pregnant that are doing triathlons and I think it’s awesome!
Wow – a tri at 6 months? That is AMAZING. I wouldn’t trust myself on the bike (although, I don’t trust myself on a bike that is not stationary to begin with). I definitely couldn’t be a pregnant woman that just sits back and takes it easy for 9 months, although sometimes I’m tempted 🙂
I can’t believe I haven’t said it yet, Congratulations!!! I don’t think you’re crazy, I think its great! Hope you are feeling well!
Thank you!! You’re pregnant too, right? When are you due?
I am! Due May 23 🙂 Hope you are feeling well!
Yay – another May baby 🙂 I am feeling soooo much better now. Hope you are the same.
Thanks for this awesome post! I’m registering for a half marathon that will take place in October and there’s a chance I might be in the early stages of a pregnancy by then!
This post was so inspiring! I love reading about women doing amazing things, like running a half, while pregnant! I had only been running about 4 or 5 months before I got pregnant AGAIN! I don’t run very far, just 3 miles or so a few times a week, but I stopped a few weeks ago because of the awful affect it was having on my nausea. If I ran or did anything, it seemed like I was bed ridden the rest of the day because of how bad I was sick! I even ducked out of my first 5k when I was halfway through, because when I slowed to walk for a minute I felt sick/dizzy. I am glad to know that someone (and a more experienced runner at that!) seemed to deal with the same thing. Now that the nausea has seemingly subsided, I am trying to get back out there. I had planned to run a half at the end of August, but instead I think I will just stick to 5ks with this pregnancy, since I am unsure about training too hard being pregnant. I never worked out with the other 3, so this is a first for me!
I think that’s a very smart plan! Honestly, listening to your body is best. I feel lucky that I was able to run through my nausea (it actually made me feel better, oddly enough!), but I know not everyone has that same experience. And as much I love running (and miss it) – I really picked up with strength training throughout this pregnancy and I’ve felt better than ever before – so don’t be afraid to add a little resistance training/weights in there too!
It’s funny how each pregnancy can bring something new, right? Glad you are feeling better and I hope keep up with working out – it’s so worth it!
You’re awesome! I’m running my first half in 3 weeks and wanted to register for another half in October, but was worried that I may be in early stages of pregnancy then. Thanks for this post!
Thank you!! You can definitely run a half when pregnant – just make sure you go into it smartly! I feel like I was able to run two races mostly because I listened to my body.
Good luck with your first half!! I am soooo jealous 🙂
Thanks, Michelle! I’ve been following a running schedule and did 12 miles yesterday. Man, it was tough! Also, I know every person and every pregnancy is going to be different, but how far along were you when you stopped running and how long after you gave birth were you able to start running again?
P.S. Isn’t Coconut Chocolate Chip the best ever?! I buy them by the boxes, especially when they go on sale for a $1 each! By far, my favorite! 🙂
Recently had a visit with dr & was advise to be cautious of the energy gels and chews should I become pregnant or seek to do so. What did you take during training & race day?
I avoided any caffeine gels – but I did still take the (I like Clif Shots and Honeystinger Chews), along with Clif Bars for breakfast. I’m not sure why you would need to avoid them unless you were taking them in excess. I discussed running and racing with my a few of the Drs at my practice and it was never a cause for concern.
I registered for my first half and then found out I’m pregnant. Your post makes me want to try but I’m so conflicted. I will be about 23 weeks race day. My long runs are at 9 miles now and I’ve never ran farther than that. I can defer my entry. Any advice? I’m guessing this wasn’t your first half, would you have done the same if it was?
It wasn’t my first, so I kind of new what I was getting myself into, but every race and every pregnancy is different.
I would definitely trust what your body is telling you. Are you comfortable doing those long runs? Are you seeking a time goal or are you just out there to have fun? It’s definitely doable, but it really depends on your mindset!
One thing I love — I’m able to say I “raced” with my youngest. Being my 3rd baby, there aren’t as many firsts – but this is a memory I’ll always have 🙂
Late to the party on this post, but just stumbled across it. I ran my first half marathon at 10 weeks pregnant and will be running my second at a little more than 17 weeks pregnant. So glad I found this post! I am struggling with the motivation, especially because it is so cold outside! I can just feel myself slowing down. Any advice? I so want to do this, but I almost feel like my body doesn’t want to cooperate. Help!
I ran my first half at 5 weeks pregnant. Training during the long cold brutal winter did not prepare me for the unusual warm day for the run. Did a run/ walk and finished in 2:10:28
I am registered for another half marathon in October by then i’ll be 7 mths pregnant. I was thinking of transferring to the 5K. My trainer believes i can do it…just at a slower pace obviously. I am uncertain
read this and I’m pregnant with my 3rd. I have a almost 7 month old and a 2 year old. I feel like I have to run a half when I’m 12 weeks pregnant just so that I know I can handle this whole 3 under 3 business! Baby 3 is due March 16th, 2015.
Great post! I am in the same situation. I was already training when I found out I was pregnant. My race is in 3 weeks and I will be exactly 12 weeks.
Thanks for this post! I’ll be 19 weeks and running a half marathon. We didn’t plan for it and I had already started training so I’ve just thrown out time goals and going for a finish. I was wondering about fuelling while racing so thanks for bringing that up! I’ll definitely be wearing a shirt saying running for two!