For two decades, running has been central to my life. Inspired by my sister Nicole, I progressed from high school cross-country to chasing the goal of completing a marathon in all 50 states, a feat my father accomplished in 2019. While not focused on elite times, my perspective shifted after witnessing Nicole’s determination at the 2018 Boston Marathon, a race I’d later qualify for after years of effort.
The journey to Boston fueled my passion, but life took an unexpected turn when I discovered I was pregnant during a marathon. This realization led to a new challenge: navigating running through all three trimesters. Initially hesitant, I consulted with medical professionals who encouraged me to continue, provided I didn’t introduce anything new beyond my established routine.
The Evolving Approach to Training
Pregnancy forced a recalibration. Gone were rigid schedules; instead, I prioritized daily comfort, adjusting workouts based on how I felt. This meant incorporating rest days, cross-training, yoga, and nutrition strategies to combat fatigue and nausea. I shifted to eating smaller, more frequent meals to maintain energy levels, ensuring consistent fueling for both myself and the developing baby.
The second trimester brought a smoother experience. Running the local marathon at 17 weeks felt empowering, confirming that with proper preparation, I could continue running while pregnant. The third trimester demanded further adjustments. Slowing my pace, using a belly band for pelvic support, and accepting run-walk intervals became the norm. The goal wasn’t performance but completion.
The Parallel Between Running and Pregnancy
The experience underscored a key insight: both marathoning and pregnancy demand presence, acceptance of discomfort, and trust in the process. Just as a marathon requires one mile at a time, pregnancy unfolds in stages, culminating in a powerful finish.
My journey wasn’t without questions. Some questioned the choice to continue running, but support from loved ones and a focus on medical guidance helped silence outside noise. This allowed me to redefine strength, proving that motherhood doesn’t halt personal goals—it transforms them.
Since giving birth to my daughters, I’ve found that motherhood isn’t about “bouncing back” but about “stepping forward”. Running, like parenthood, is about adapting, redefining limits, and embracing the journey with intention and grace.
