Running for Two: The race

Written by Christina // March 11, 2011 // Pregnant Running // No comments // 427 views

A race (def.) is defined as ‘a contest of speed’*. Let me clear the air up front. My idea of racing and the dictionary’s idea of racing are two different things. Sure, I enter races and I have finished races. For the most part I’m speedier than my training times, but by no means am I vying for a podium finish. The contest is within myself.

This internal contest drives me to continue with my training. At the request of my OB I was asked to dampen the fire of self-competition. They requested that if I continue to run through this pregnancy I should NOT train for long distance events and maintain a steady, comfortable pace. NO RACING!!! Hmmm, so finishing without anything left in the tank was non-negotiable. Okay. I can do this.

Here are some tips if you continue to enter races during your pregnancy:

Don’t be unrealistic when registering for a race. Now might not be the time to sign up for that ten miler.
Try to bring yourself back to reality; regardless of the distance a PR might not be in your sight.
Dress comfortably. You can play around with your wardrobe selections during your ‘training’ runs.
Be sure to fuel properly before, during and after your race. Gone are the days when you can run a 5K on a cup of coffee.
It’s okay if you need to slow down and walk. Please don’t push yourself too hard. Be proud that you’re still active.

I’ve been fortunate enough to have run three 5K’s and one 10K during this pregnancy. On March 20th I’ll be running the St. Pat’s 5K in Allentown’s West End just a few days shy of seven months. I might not be fast and my clothing might not be flattering, but I will hold my head high as I cross the finish line, whether it’s a trot, shuffle or a walk.

Be well and happy running!

“Race” Def.1. The New Lexicon Webster’s Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language. Canadian ed. 1988.