How to Start Running After Having a Baby

Almost every new mother runner has two things in common: 1. They are tired. 2. BUT, they aren’t too tired to want to run ASAP. But running postpartum requires a bit more than finding the will and the way. (Usually, that’s the hardest part for starting a running habit, right?). No, it requires ensuring your body is READY when your head is. Jump in too quickly and we could get seriously hurt — not ideal when you’re trying to care for a tiny human.

I remember wanting to run a couple of days after I got home from the hospital. Like many new moms, I wanted to feel like my old self again. I wanted that time to myself. I wanted to be outdoors and feel free! And, sure, like many new moms, I wanted to lose the baby weight and LOOK like my old self again, too.

And, I wish I could tell you I was responsible…that I diligently saw a pelvic floor specialist, strengthened my floor and deep core, and walked for weeks before starting to run again.

No, I did not do that. Why not? Because no one told me to. After I got the all-clear from my doctor about one month postpartum, I started running again.

Thankfully, medical professionals are now filling in the gap around postpartum health. Physical therapists worldwide are clamoring to be heard loud and clear that women are returning to running postpartum TOO SOON and it…