The Transition From Runner to Runner Mom
We love fit-mom-of-twins, Christine’s, perspective on how to transition from being a runner to a runner mom.
Hi, My name is Christine. I’m a 26 year old from NYC and a new mom to boy/girl twins. I started running in 2010 to prove to myself I could complete a half marathon. I didn’t expect to actually like it, but I really loved the feeling of accomplishment and have been running ever since. After I gave birth to my twins earlier this year, I went back into running full force to get ready for the NYC Marathon. I really started to embrace the running culture in a new way. I started a blog:www.chasingwhiterabbitsforfun.
The transition from runner to runner mom can be a seamless experience. While you’re busy adjusting to life with your little one(s), it may not have occurred to you that your running habits needs to change as well.
One of the things I loved about running was the freedom it gave me. It requires little equipment, mainly running shoes, and you’re good to go. I was able to challenge myself by being able to run five miles clear in one direction, knowing I’d have to run five miles back. I could explore various parts of my neighborhood on a whim, knowing I didn’t have anywhere to be. However, once I got pregnant, this all changed. I had to be smarter, and more responsible, which took some getting used to.
I will preface by stating that I’m an asthmatic with twins, so the precautions I took and still take are what works for me. Please check with your doctor and family to see what you’re comfortable with.
I ran when I got pregnant for the first few months. I had to change my course and mainly stuck to routes that other family members knew. I would tell someone how long I planned to be, just in case of anything. A big help that I suggest is to invest in your music. As a new mom or mom to be, you may get tired of having to stick to the same monotonous routes, but constantly changing up my iPod kept my runs interesting.
Once my little bundles arrived, I realized how much more planning my runs would take. I started slow and started signing up for races again three months after they were born. At the three month mark, I did a four mile race, and a week later I completed a half marathon. I’ve been trying to sign up for lots of races since I don’t get out of the house too much. It’s a nice change of scenery and something fun for me to look forward to. My husband works, so I take care of the babies by myself (until he comes home).
I also realized that I would have to tailor my training runs around his schedule. My big piece of advice would be take advantage of any running opportunity that presents itself. If the stars align and he’s home early or has to go into work a little late, I run. I may not always be in the mood, but it ensures I get out there. There have been a lot of days where it’s easier to say no, but I make myself get dressed to go. Once I’m at that point, I really don’t think I have an excuse.
Of course, I have to plan other times to get out for a run. There is no more considering myself a morning runner or night runner – I have to be both.
I have to get out there early before my husband leaves or when he gets in from work. I also have to make sure I change my running attire to accommodate the time of day that I run. No longer was I dressing in all black – I made sure to get reflective bands and wore bright colors when I was running early or really late. Much like when I was pregnant, I let my husband know where I was going and when I would be home.
Not only was keeping the same course important, but I didn’t want to be too far from the house. That motherly instinct kicked in when they were born and I don’t feel comfortable being too far from them. They’re only a few months old now, but I look forward to the day we can invest in a nice double jogger, and they’ll be able to come with me on a day run.
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