by Ashlee Lawson Green, Co-founder and Relay Squad member

Despite my family's best attempts to get me to slow down (literally and figuratively) during my pregnancy, I always knew I was going to continue running for as long as my body would allow.

There are so many benefits to physical activity and movement during pregnancy. During pregnancy, exercise can*:

Support good sleeping habits
Boost energy levels during the day
Help ward off uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms such as constipation, aches and pains and bloating
Support a positive labor and delivery experience
Help shorten recovery time after delivery

Continuing to run during my pregnancy--I was able to continue lacing up through month seven-- certainly taught me a few things along the way that helped me stay consistent and run my miles, my way.

Before we dive in, we have to say, please, please, please consult with your doctor prior to beginning or continuing any fitness-related activity or training while pregnant.**

5 Essential Running Tips for Pregnant Runners

Keep Moving, Mama

It seems super intuitive, but pregnancy brain coupled with pregnancy anxiety can be a recipe for stalling and stagnation. If you were already a runner pre-pregnancy, like I was, it can be easy to use your pregnancy as an excuse to sit still. So, once you get the all-clear from your doctor, start making it a maternity habit to get out and run, jog or walk (or any combination of the three). Just be sure to hit the pavement and keep it moving.

2. Mama’s Gotta Hydrate!

We preach hydration all the time here at RUNGRL, but I have to say it becomes infinitely more important when you are expecting. No matter if you’re running 2 miles or 12, it’s always a good idea to take some water along with you. As a mommy-to-be, in addition to keeping you hydrated, water is also doing things like producing amniotic fluid and extra blood volume, carrying nutrients to your little one, and flushing waste for two.

3. Maternity Gear Helps

Throughout my own pregnancy, I was intent on purchasing the conveniences that would make the experience as enjoyable and easy for me as possible. As a runner, my belly band quickly became my best friend on the run. Not only did the band help to alleviate pain and discomfort in my pelvic region and pressure on my back while I was running, but it also offered a sense of security that I just didn't have when I didn’t wear it. It made me feel safe. My band of choice (I have two!): KeaBabies Soft & Breathable Pregnancy Belly Support Belt

4. Mind the Weather, Mom

The little one growing in your belly doesn’t love to be super hot, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. If you live in warmer climates or tend to “run hot” when working out, be sure to be mindful. That may mean running at off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or safely into the evening. Pull back on the intensity of your runs or workouts to ensure you don’t get too hot, and take frequent walking or rest and hydration breaks along the way.

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5. Listen to Your Body

Your body knows what it needs and you know your body best. Listen to it. If something doesn’t feel right, stop. If you’re sore or achy, or experiencing new or foreign sensations, be sure to tend to those immediately. The most important things right now are you and that precious new life growing inside you. It’s ok to modify and adjust to have the safest experience possible.

Bonus: Challenge Yourself

In the first 8 weeks or so of my pregnancy, I slowed my activity dramatically (see also: debilitating anxiety). Because of this, I needed to find the motivation to get moving consistently and did so by joining a miles challenge with a big group of friends that forced me to get up and get moving, doing at least 2 miles a day. It turned out to be a game-changer for my activity levels and confidence.

Whether you join a miles challenge with friends or your partner or create your own for just yourself, it can be a great way to stay motivated.

As expecting Black mommies, we already have more than enough anxiety to overcome and hurdles to jump through throughout our pregnancy experience. Here’s to not letting running be one of those.

Happy running, Mama!

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*Mayo Clinic, ”Pregnancy and exercise: Baby, let's move!”, 2019

**Medical Disclaimer: The information contained above does not and is not intended to convey medical advice and does not constitute the practice of medicine. Always seek the advice of a physician before beginning any fitness program. See full terms of use for additional details.

***Disclaimer: While items in this feature are not sponsored, they are listed as affiliate links. RUNGRL may receive compensation for your engagement with them. See full terms of use for details.