If there is one thing I have learned while running during my pregnancy it is that things never stay the same! My body is in a constant state of change and it is difficult to keep up. Usually when I train for a race I notice progress and feel like I am moving forward. Things don't really work that way when you are pregnant. It is almost as if I am running in place. My belly growth cancels out any progress made by running and brings on more challenges to overcome.
The past two weeks of training have revealed some new obstacles. I no longer experience an easy run. Every run is a challenge and requires concentration in order to keep moving even if it is only two miles. I ran a 5 miler last Saturday and realized how hard it was to mentally get through it. My legs really feel the extra weight and work hard to keep me going. I also started to feel a dull ache in my pubic bone after this run. It is a feeling that is all too familiar (from previous pregnancies) and I was hoping it wouldn't inhibit my running. Luckily it faded away after a day of rest and was not too uncomfortable. I went to visit my sister for spring break and planned to run with her to test out our pace for SLC. We did our long run on Thursday 6.25 miles with a mile of walking before and after so a total of 7 plus miles. Oh baby was I hurting after this run! It was great to have company while running to distract me but I could feel my legs burning and pubic bone the whole time. It did not feel better with waking and in fact hurts the same whether I walk or run. It made me realize that things are only going to get harder as I look towards race day. The whole day after this long run my pubic bone ached and my hip joints felt a little stiff. It faded by the next day and the longer I rest in between the better I feel. Has anyone experienced this pubic bone problem? It is hard to know if it just goes with the territory or if it could be potentially harmful. I plan to be very conservative over the next week and just take it a day at a time.
I did make a good discovery that helps me feel more comfortable while running that may be of interest. Has anyone ever used a Belly Band during pregnancy? It is basically a piece of stretchy material that looks like a buff that you can use to hold your pants up. I found one at Motherhood ($16) and use it under my support belt so that I have something soft on my skin. It also helps hold in any bulging at the top of my belt considering that I want the belt tight enough to hold my belly up. I can also use it for many other things like covering my open button and zipper when I want to wear non-maternity pants, and when I need an under layer for shirts that aren't quite long enough. I would recommend this to anyone who is pregnant or planning to be.
Wish me luck these next few weeks I am going to need it!
Oh I almost forgot, has anyone experienced their feet going numb while running? My left foot usually goes at about 3 miles and then my right. It faded out around mile 4 1/2 but it feels really weird running with lead feet.
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I've had the numb feet--it went away when I bought bigger shoes. It probably depends on the brand (some run bigger than others). Could your feet be getting a little bigger yet? Mine always do when pregnant. I have bunions on both feet, which crowds my toes. I think that was why I had to buy a little bigger shoes. I normally wear 7's but buy my running shoes in an 8 (Brooks). Good luck.
Love your pregnancy posts! I am 16 weeks and still running- I have a marathon, 2 1/2s, a 10 miler and some smaller races coming up. I did the Goofy Challenge in Disney at 8 weeks!
My feet are sore, no numbness yet! The guy at the running store near me mentioned that it was a possibility and suggested buying shoes a size up like polliwog mentioned!
What a trooper you are. I love the idea of the belly band for both running and just style wise. Take care of yourself and good luck
I had that pubic bone pain when I was pregnant. I think it just goes with the territory of pregnancy, because I haven't had that problem since I was pregnant.
I know it feels like you aren't moving forward. I remember that being a very difficult challenge while running during my last pregnancy. My delivery and recovery was SO much better, and I think it was because of the running. So just thinking of the benefits of your running just being a little delayed, not non-existent. You are amazing - truly an inspiration to all of us. Be kind to your body and don't run if it hurts. I can't wait to meet you in SLC.
You are awesome! Such an inspiration. Bigger shoes sounds like a good plan. Just listen to your body. Can't wait to meet in SLC.
I am 30 weeks and I have had the pubic bone problem really bad the last month or so... even with walking (which is all I am doing right now) it hurts bad enough that it's hard to get up and hard to walk for a couple of days. I think it's due to the loosening of your joints at this stage of the pregnancy... the cartilage softens. Good luck- what an inspiration you are!
You are awesome! I agree with the bigger shoes idea. You are such an inspiration, maybe I won't quit running as soon as I'm pregnant again! Way to go getting your sis to come out here for the race too!
Megan
My feet grow when pregnant and shrink after the weight comes off... New shoes sounds like the trick.
As for pelvic pain..... I wish I had answers. It sounds terrible! I have had ligament troubles in past pregnancies and can't imagine trying to run with that.
Pre-pregnancy I couldn't imagine a day off without running or doing the eliptical. Now, I feel lucky to be up and moving a few days a week. I know I feel better physically and mentally when I get some exercise in, but it just isn't daily yet for me. Soon, I hope to be able to do that again.
Take it a day at a time, try not to beat yourself up if you have a lame run. It's so hard to not compare yourself to what you used to be able to do with no problems.
You are incredible!
My feet used to go numb when I ran, but only on a treadmill.... and I'm definitely not pregnant. So, what does that say about me?
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