Post baby running

Run 4 U and Perform can help you get back into shape post baby. There is a great deal of science behind what and when to do exercise post baby. I believe the key to success in getting back to or developing new fitness is to have someone in your corner. Somebody who knows how to succeed and has the knowledge of what type and frequency of exercise to do.

After having my first child, my now 4-year-old son, Theo, I did not have the confidence in running that I once had. Like many new mums, I was tired day in day out, breastfeeding took over, eating was for quick calories and without much effort and the last thing I wanted to do was complete those much-needed strength exercises. Before I knew it, my body was piling on the pounds and the baby fat did not seem to be disappearing. With some impatience I took the decision to start hitting the roads and run. However, as mentioned, I hadn’t made my body strong enough to run and I was too stressed out about getting back to breastfeed or back to get him into bed, to even do the right type of workout. I struggled to say the least. I did not gain fitness and my legs did not want to move the way they once had. I felt extremely frustrated and my confidence was at an all-time low.

Going in to have my second child, April, now 2 years, my approach was much different. During pregnancy I had prepared a little differently and mentally prepared myself for taking a slower approach to my return to running. I made my body strong; I built up gradually and enjoyed my runs much more. Time constraints were still there but when I could work out, I made the minutes count. Furthermore, I gave myself goals. Ones that were realistic and achievable. Over time, my body was fighting fit, I was prepared too conquer bigger challenges. For the first time in my life, I decided my new goal was to complete a marathon. Just as my approach had changed during pregnancy, I planned and prepared my journey towards reaching my goal. I stuck to the plan like glue, listening to my body and listening to my own advice. Something great happened. Besides the fact that I smashed my target time I crossed the line in first position in 3 hours 1minute, I had also enjoyed my time running and training like never before. Running to this plan and towards this goal gave me purpose whilst also making me refreshed to care for my children and value time spent with them. Running had become my time to reset.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch as to how Run 4 U and Perform can help you reach your running goals post baby, whenever you start it is never too late…as long as you start!