RUNNING RETURN

I am often asked by new mothers when they can get back to running. While everybody is different there is scientific evidence that suggests waiting at least six to eight weeks before you start.

That’s how long damaged tissue takes to heal and almost all women have something going on that requires healing, be it episiotomies, perineal tearing, C-sections, or even damage to pelvic floor from pushing the baby out.

You should also go to the doctor for your six-week check up before getting out there.

Another sign to tell you where you are at in the healing process is to monitor the bleeding that occurs post partum.

It needs to be lighter, almost pink before running as raising your heart rate and increasing blood flow while actively bleeding is dangerous.

Being a mother of two I understand the pull to get out there and run again but the best advice is to be kind to your self.

By going back too soon you risk injury, incontinence, hip and back pain among other things that can take you out of running for much longer than just waiting until your body is ready.

In those first