anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

Before becoming pregnant I was a pretty regular runner. Now that I am just about 5 months pregnant I've slowed downed a lot and really really miss it. My doctor said I can keep running throughout my whole pregnancy but it will def slow down. Anyway, I have been doing light joggging around 4 miles a few times a week and walking about 4 miles the other days (esp. when its too hot).

I've been doing the cow harbor race every year for a while now and really want to do it- its the end of Sept. All my friends and family run this race also. My question is, should I just do it but go slow and walk when I need to? I am going to ask my doctor on Monday before I sign up but wanted to hear other runners opinions too. I wouldn't push myself and really compete but I its nice being a part of it and it really makes me feel good.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

i was running up to about 6.5 months (slowly, mostly 3-4 miles 2-3x per week). After that, my muscles/ligaments felt too stressed after a run to continue. If you feel up to it and doc says it is OK, I say go for it! Be prepared- you may get some strange looks. I got every reaction from old ladies staring me down to younger people cheering me on.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

I don't run normally, so I wouldn't dream of it But a friend of mine is an avid runner and continued to run throughout her entire pregnancy without issue. She even ran a marathon (maybe it was a half, I'm not sure) when she was noticeably pregnant! If you feel up to it, absolutely go for it! I would just listen to your body, as I'm sure already know- take breaks when/if you need to and make sure to stay VERY WELL hydrated! Other than that, have fun!

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

I was running (which became more of a jog I guess) until about 3.5 months. I stopped because my body just started hurting. Since then Ive been walking at lesast 4-5 days a week for about 45 minutes. At 38 weeks, even that is getting pretty hard!

Definitly talk to your doctor, I would think since youve been running all along it should be ok as long as you take it slow, and listen to your body.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

talk to your doctor but if you feel up to it go for it. my doctor said it was okay for me to run races but i never did because running just became too hard for me while pg. just drink more water than you usually would

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

It all depends on how far along you are.

I was cleared for a marathon at 10 weeks by my ob (but I'm sure that was b/c there was a lot of training behind it before pregnancy). and I "ran" a 4 m race at 35w with #1. I get red when I run...no matter what and I think everyone wanted to bring me to the hospital that day...when I seriously wogged the entire thing. But I really didn't get any bad looks or negative comments.

I remember reading an article by a woman 9 months pregnant who still ran and she ran by HS football practice (her dad was the coach) and she heard him yell "If that woman can run, each and every one of you have nothing to complain about!"

other than that, I tried to run a few days a week @ 3 miles and even kept up a boot camp session 1 x week. But it really all changed in the 3rd trimester.

I just couldn't do it anymore I get very big in pregnancy and this is my 3rd, so it was out even earlier. Plus, the lack of space really inhibits the diaphragm. I now walk maybe a mile a day, things change!

I understand the frustration...I'll be 4 weeks PP and I entertained the idea of running CH (I have done it every year I have lived in NY since the late 90s too!)...and also a marathon at 20 weeks pp. Until I realized it's just not possible (but I'll be volunteering at CH and the training runs!). Plus, DH's uncle is a L&D nurse and said that one of the reasons they get women in with placenta separation/issues, is from running. So I figure it is OK to take a break.

Of course, then you look at Kara Goucher and Paula Radcliffe! Although they have professional coaches behind them and weight altering treadmills.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

Thanks for all the advice. I really haven't been pushing myself and have been going slow. it feels good to keep active and do something that I love. I am so happy and grateful to be pregnant that I feel bad that I even care about running still. But I honestly feel really left out and still want to be a part of it. On sunday I watched my husband, dad, and really good friend run the queens half and I was jealous. I know that it is silly but I can't help but feel this way.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

You are crazy, and you are still faster than many non-pregnant runners! I didn't run at all while pregnant. I did yoga and walking only. But I remember seeing people running while I was 30+ weeks pregnant and CRAVING it so I understand how you are feeling.
Make sure you register for a jogging stroller so we can run together with the babies.

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

I ran/walked up til about 7 months and then switched to all walking so I totally understand your frustration and feeling left out. For me, personally, I didn't want to do any races while pregnant because I knew I wouldn't feel good about it not being able to give my full effort. So for me I wouldn't run the race, but instead volunteer and cheer people on so I could still be a part of it. But if you are feeling good and want to do it I don't see any reason why you shouldn't assuming your doctor says it's ok. Good luck!

I'm still debating signing up for Cow harbor. I'm 10 weeks pp today, but I haven't had time to run much so I'm not sure it's worth it this year...

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

I have been running my whole pregnancy. At 8+ months I have switched to walking just because I feel like I have to pee every step! People can say whatever they want and I have had looks and people tell me the baby needs to cook longer. The baby is not going to fall out! Dr says 100% fine and keep going! It makes me feel good and I just go slow! I can't wait to run with my new BOB stroller!!

Re: anyone running/jogging/walking and doing races while pregnant?

I'm just entering my second trimester and still running 2 - 3 times per week. I run alot slower now but it still feels good and as long as my body doesn't give me signs that I need to stop, I'll keep going.

I want to get clearance from the Doc to run a 5K (even if I just run/walk it) in November so I have to keep up with it.