Running for Two: Cross Training

Running For Two is a series on LV Running Scene specifically for women who are pregnant and still running. Christina is currently running through her pregnancy and encourages women to continue running during and after their pregnancy. In this series she will cover issues such as fighting nausea during the first trimester, active wear, racing while pregnant, hydration during runs, braving the cold weather, cross training and stretching.

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I believe that each article in this series has stressed the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle through pregnancy.  The word active may have several translations depending on your fitness level prior to pregnancy, how you feel from day to day, and how far along you’re into the process.  Finding the time to squeeze in some activity will increase your chances of an uneventful delivery and will get you ‘back in the saddle’ faster post-baby.

I just hit my ninth month and I’m starting to feel it.  I have yet to start the waddle, but I did incorporate that ‘groan’ when bending over, getting out of a chair or changing positions in bed.   My early morning runs have morphed into a brisk walk/trot.  Sometimes I can’t even imagine both feet leaving the ground simultaneously.  But I need to keep moving, yes?  Yes.  How so, you ask?  Cross training, my friends.

Cross training is a term used to describe the fusion of different types of exercises.  For example, some people may incorporate a few days of swimming or cycling (or both) to complement their running program.  This change-up keeps your workouts from getting stale, gives your muscles something new to do and gives you a different routine to keep your mind sharp.  Depending on how far along you are, running may start to become increasingly difficult.  Don’t forgo a workout – CROSS TRAIN!

Starting a new and challenging workout might not be the best idea.  Perhaps you can try rock climbing post-baby, but, instead, 45 minutes on the elliptical might be a better idea or dial down your running pace to a brisk walk.  Swimming some laps or taking an aqua aerobic class will not only keep your cardio in check, but the physical properties of the water will naturally relax your muscles.  This can help take away some of the pressure you may be feeling.  Regardless of the workout, please take it easy, remember to breathe and finish with some gentle stretching.

Happy moving!

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Christina “Muffin” Roberts, wife and mother, is running through her second pregnancy. Disappointed with the lack of information on pregnancy and running available today, she wanted to write about her experiences in hopes of sharing what she’s learned and to encourage fellow pregnant runners to keep on running.
Christina blogs at http://muffinmadness35.blogspot.com/.