Postpartum Return to Running

The postpartum period, often called the “4th trimester” of pregnancy, encompasses the time frame after childbirth, typically spanning up to one year. This crucial phase entails a series of significant physical, hormonal, and emotional adjustments as new mothers navigate the recovery process from pregnancy and childbirth.

We understand the importance of maintaining good physical health and endurance postpartum. Pregnancy and labor can take a toll on a woman’s body, decreasing muscle strength, endurance, and overall fitness levels. Restoring and rebuilding physical health after childbirth is vital, not only to regain pre-pregnancy vitality but also to meet the demands of motherhood.

How Can The Mama Clinic Help You?

Returning to running after pregnancy requires careful consideration and support, which is where our experienced physical therapists come in. We specialize in postpartum care and provide invaluable guidance, individualized assessments, and tailored exercise programs to help you safely and effectively resume running.

Expertise in Postpartum Recovery

Our physical therapists deeply understand the unique physical changes that occur during and after pregnancy. We can comprehensively assess your postpartum condition and identify areas of weakness, muscle imbalances, and other factors that may impact running performance or increase the risk of injury.

Individualized Assessment

Every postpartum mom’s body and recovery journey is different. Our physical therapists conduct thorough evaluations, considering factors such as pelvic floor strength, abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), and overall musculoskeletal function. This assessment helps identify specific focus areas or potential limitations that need to be addressed before returning to running.

Tailored Exercise Programs

Our physical therapists develop personalized exercise programs to address your individual needs and goals based on the assessment findings. These programs may include targeted exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve core stability, address muscle imbalances, and gradually build the endurance and strength necessary for running.

Injury Prevention and Technique Guidance

Proper form and technique are crucial for preventing running-related injuries. Our physical therapists guide running mechanics, foot strikes, posture, and breathing techniques. We help you optimize your running form to reduce stress on the body and minimize the risk of postpartum-related issues, such as pelvic floor dysfunction or diastasis recti.

Gradual Progression and Monitoring

Returning to running should be a gradual process to allow your body to adapt and minimize the risk of overexertion. Our physical therapists will guide you through a progressive running program, ensuring a slow and safe increase in intensity, duration, and frequency. We will closely monitor your response to training, make adjustments as needed, and provide ongoing support and motivation.

Education and Empowerment

Beyond exercises and guidance, our physical therapists will educate you about your body, helping you understand your changes and how to best support your recovery. We provide tips on self-care, such as proper nutrition, hydration, and rest, and equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your running routine and overall well-being.

Why Many Moms Choose Running…

Running has emerged as the go-to exercise for postpartum moms, and it’s no wonder why. Here’s why running has become popular among new mothers:

Convenient and Time-Efficient: Running provides a convenient and time-efficient way to engage in physical activity. With minimal equipment required and the flexibility to run whenever and wherever moms can easily integrate running into their busy schedules.
Cardiovascular Fitness and Weight Management: Running is a high-impact cardiovascular activity that helps improve cardiovascular fitness and supports weight management. By incorporating running into their routine, moms can enhance their health and well-being.
Stress Reduction and Energy Boost: Many postpartum moms find that running helps reduce stress levels and boosts energy. It’s an empowering way to clear the mind, release tension, and recharge, providing a sense of mental and emotional well-being.
Personal Accomplishment: Running offers a sense of personal accomplishment and achievement. Setting and reaching running goals can be incredibly satisfying and empowering, fostering a positive mindset and boosting self-confidence.
Social Connection: Running can be a social activity for postpartum moms. Joining running groups or participating in local running events creates opportunities for community and support. Sharing experiences and building camaraderie with fellow postpartum runners can motivate and inspire.

Embrace Your Postpartum Running Journey

Congratulations on considering a return to running after pregnancy! This exciting journey offers postpartum moms a chance to regain their physical health, enhance their endurance, and reconnect with the joy of movement. However, it’s essential to approach this journey with care, patience, and professional guidance.

During the postpartum period, which lasts up to one year after childbirth, prioritizing physical healing and overall well-being is paramount before resuming running. We highly recommend consulting with a physical therapist specializing in postpartum care. These experts possess the knowledge and experience to assess your unique needs, address specific concerns, and design customized exercise programs that ensure a safe and effective return to running.

Physical therapists play a crucial role in guiding postpartum moms through the process of rebuilding strength, addressing muscle imbalances, and mitigating potential complications like pelvic floor dysfunction or diastasis recti. With their expertise, support, and ongoing monitoring, you can experience a gradual and successful transition back to running.

Listening to your body, following a proper progression plan, and remaining mindful of warning signs are all essential elements of a healthy return to running. Recognize and embrace the changes your body has undergone, celebrate your accomplishments, and honor your individual journey.

Remember, the postpartum period is about more than just running—it’s an opportunity to embrace self-care, nurture your emotional well-being, and strike a balance that supports motherhood’s demands and your personal health goals. Engage in complementary exercises, prioritize proper nutrition, stay hydrated, and seek out a supportive community to bolster your holistic approach.

To all postpartum moms eager to resume running, take the time to heal, listen to your body, seek professional guidance, and savor the process. You can run with strength, resilience, and a renewed sense of empowerment by nurturing your physical and emotional well-being. Your running journey after pregnancy is a testament to your unwavering strength, determination, and the incredible journey of motherhood itself.

We wish you the best of luck on your postpartum running journey and remember to celebrate every step forward. You’re embarking on an incredible path of self-discovery and growth.

Embrace it with confidence, joy, and pride!

What People Say About The Mama Clinic

Lauren was truly amazing to work with! I met Lauren through PT for my back pain and after further work and conversation we were able to figure out where the pain was coming from and why. She has been beyond supportive and understanding and really listens to her clients challenges without making you feel uncomfortable or that you can't ask any questions or share details about how you are doing and feeling. I have and will continue to recommend her to anyone who needs pelvic floor therapy.

I am so lucky to have found Lauren. I work at the chiropractors office two doors down from her old job and they referred me to her as well as a patient of hers that is also a patient of ours. (She is highly recommended and now I see why). I have PCOS and endometriosis and currently trying to conceive. Ever since my first consult with her, I felt heard and comfortable. I love that she comes into my home so I feel super comfortable. I feel like I can be open and honest with her and she is looking out for my best interest. I will be referring anyone i know to Lauren because she is beyond amazing. I will probably continue to get care from Lauren for a long time!

Lauren is incredible. She is compassionate, knowledgeable and really listens. She was able to answer all my questions. She is such a value to the community.

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