Running while Pregnant: My journey & tips for the Pregnant Runner

six hundred and sixty one miles.

1,057,600 meters. 3,490,080 feet.

three pregnancies.

and just like that, its over.

My pregnancy running journey is complete.

It’s been 10 days since I last ran and at the end of it, I think I knew inside that I was done. But I sat on it a few days before I made up my mind because there have been times (many times) during pregnancy where I’ve not felt great and then the next day woke and felt a 1000 times better and it was like the previous day never happened.

So, I waited out those days…and nahhh. I’m pretty sure my body is done and dusted with lugging this guy around!!!

I feel gratitude, for my body allowing me to continue something that is so important to me (fitness). I feel relief in a way, that its all over. I feel a little bit of disappointment in myself for not being able to make it all the way until 39 weeks when I deliver ((I guess thats the type A in me ).

But, most of all I feel PROUD, because its not easy to be consistent during pregnancy with workouts or running and I was able to accomplish that.

My first two pregnancies:

With my first pregnancy, I ran up until my due date. My son came 6 days late. With my second, I ran until 2 days before my planned C-Section (39 + 2). My last run with my current and final pregnancy was at 35 +4 weeks.

I’m sure some of you who don’t know me probably think this is crazy. Especially if I told you my first two babies were 8 lb 10 oz or bigger…LOL!! ( we will see how big this guy gets!!).

As y’all know, in pregnancy, everything is based around the baby. and how I’m feeling. which is such a catch 22 because we as women literally have no control over how we feel…!!!

Pregnancy was HARD AF for me with all babies, especially baby 1. I was so USED to just pushing through everything! I coulden’t get past how my body just woulden’t do/I coulden’t do what I wanted to! After all, I had pushed my body to the limit for so many years playing professional soccer. So many hormonal, mental and physical changes, wrapping my head around bringing a baby into the world…it was overwhelming!!

Third pregnancy running

As my pregnancy progressed along this time around, I was completely aware at how much bigger I got so much earlier. I was completely aware that it would be the middle of winter my last month…which might affect my ability to get outside. Cold, snow, darkness, ice were all things on my mind.

I know this is silly, but I set an internal goal of reaching December (knowing all these factors) and once I reached that date, I would take it day for day. ((Obviously, if I ever didn’t feel good or there was an issue with the baby I would never put anything at risk and would stop)).

I say its silly because…if any of you have been pregnant, you know there are so many factors out of your control when it comes to pregnancy! Setting this goal wasn’t just mind over matter and “how bad do you want it? or “no excuses, get it done” like I spoke about above!

And then one day, (after my goal, LOL!!) It just stopped feeling natural. Stopped feeling good. And when that happened, I always vowed to call it a day. So I did.

My WHY

Why run you ask?

1. I like being active and healthy, pregnant or not. Enough said. You can google any study anywhere and read about pregnancy and working out. Good for mom, good for baby. Good, good, good.

2. It made me feel like myself…even if I was slower and bigger. This was probably my number one reason for continuing. This was especially important to me during pregnancy 1 when I struggled big time with my growing body and embracing the new use for my body. So many changes physically & emotionally…

   Before, everything I did with my body was results oriented. How can I get faster? Stronger? Better on the ball? How many times can I train in one day? What can I eat to make me a better athlete?

   This all quickly shifted to becoming a home for a little baby for 9 months. So….. that 30-40 minutes when my feet hit the pavement, I grinded out a sweat, and sometimes (especially early on) forgot I was pregnant. It was just me, and the roads doing our thing. It made me HAPPY and kept me grounded for those 9 months.

3. Running is something i’ve done my whole life and it felt natural. It’s not like I woke up one day and had a huge bump. The progression was so slow that it was very gradual and gentle as I got bigger. It probably would have been weirder for my body to just stop!!!

4. It kept my swelling at bay. Sure, I definitely got swollen but nowhere near what i have seen other pregnant mama’s and I know its due to my consistent activity level!

5. Weight Control: I’ve gained a healthy 33-35 lbs, with my first, 40 with my second and I’m on track for around 35-37 with my current pregnancy. Being active and running has definitely helped keep my weight in a healthy target area and made recovery A LOT easier.

   It’s no walk in the park though…
   

   I’d be lying if I said I enjoyed every run. I’d be lying if I said I wanted to be out there every single time. I’d be lying if I said it was easy, or didn’t take any discipline. It sure as hell did. But I look back on my journey with great pride, and so fondly as memories with my babies before they came into this world.

   Advice for Pregnant Runners/ Beginner Runners:

   If I could pass along any advice to fellow runners who have just become pregnant and want to continue their regiment, I would offer the following as advice. Some of this advice can be applied to people who aren’t pregnant who are looking to take up running!

   1. SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR FIRST. Everyone’s pregnancy is different, and what i did may not be right for you!!!

   2. Change your mindset: Whether you are a recreational runner or a competitive runner, changing your mindset is CRUCIAL. Knowing that you’re out there for the movement, the sweat, the endorphins, etc. rather than actually hitting mileage, splits, times….if you don’t change this mindset, you won’t last long and it certainly won’t be enjoyable!

   3. Invest in good workout gear: Without comfortable running clothes/proper gear running while pregnant can become virtually impossible. I’ve shared my favorites over the course of my 600+ miles (see below)

   4. Find your time: For me, I always felt better early in the morning. My bladder and stomach were fairly empty which led to less bathroom breaks, pressure and any digestion issues. Try out different times of day to see when you feel best.

   5. One day at a time: Don’t get too high off a great run, or too low on a bad run. 9 months is a long time and there will be days where you’re running pre-pregnancy times and feeling like a 100 bucks…and other days where you can’t finish your run, never go, or just feel tired and lethargic. Don’t jump to any conclusions and just roll with it! The part that counts is YOU SHOWED UP.

   6. Intervals: So many of my runs were intervals, whether it was “sprint” for 100 yards, then jog…and repeat for time or a number of sets… or repeat 400s with 3 minutes of rest in between! I always felt like this made the runs more enjoyable knowing I was able to keep a faster pace than a longer run, and knowing I was torching some fat as well!

   7. Take breaks: there’s no shame in stopping to walk, or stretch for a minute or two!

   8. Know when to call it a day: I felt great with my first two pregnancies and tried to not put too much pressure on myself to make it to “running full term with all three babies”. I’m super goal oriented and tbh I would have loved to do that ((sighhhh)). In saying that, Know when to call it a day…when it doesn’t feel good, or feel natural. Any running while pregnant is something to be proud of whether its 3 weeks, 3 months or 9 months!!

Now…on to share my pregnancy running/workout must haves!

1. Gabrialla waist support: I ran with this with all three babies and was a life saver!! This is a must!

2. Body Glide-With my first two pregnancies I had a litrle bit of chafe going on because it was so hot. This was a life saver where my sports bra was, and on my thighs! Things start rubbin when you get bigger! You can get this on amazon!

3. Good running shoes- your feet will naturally swell so having a good pair is important. The brooks ghost is my favorite!

4. A good sports Bra- my fave is the Brooks Juno. The girls don’t move AT ALL and the straps allow for nursing when the baby comes (cause once that milk comes in…sister watch out! LOL) I do have to say its not super easy to get on but its worth it to keep them strapped in! Perf for running or any high impact!!!

5. My zella leggings- great to run in especially in cooler months. I wear these also 24-7. These are the ULTIMATE leggings for pregnancy. You can work out in them, dress them up, wear them casually. They are just bomb. If they come back in stock, SNAG them ASAP!!! Great quality.

6. These Gap tank tops are my favorite.

7. these Old Navy fleeces are super comfy, great for layering and working out in.

8. I love this long sleeve mock neck top from Gap to run in

9. Basic Gap tees- long sleeve (for winter), tanks (for summer), and tees (layerin and for summer) were super easy to throw on also and run in!

   Unfortunately the patterned Isabel Maternity for Target leggings are all sold out…but those were big on my workout rotation! Check out target for some of their maternity leggings to work out in!

I hope this post helps any of you mamas to be with questions about running while pregnant!

xo

Alex

HBD!! Getting Older is a mindset....

I’m sitting here on the morning of my 36th birthday, and I probably should still be sleeping. Its a rainy, dreary morning but I have so many thoughts on my birthday so here I am!

Its funny when you’re a kid and you think there’s this “cut-off” age where you become old. Like..35 or 40 or whatever it is.

But when you actually hit that age, you don’t even actually feel old. lol, I guess in my mind age is just a number, and if you look after yourself you’ll feel, look and even act younger. I can’t really say that it bothers me like it does some people. Obviously I’m aware of it, ((and sometimes I think about it more than others)) but its all part of life!! I think back to 10 years ago and there’s certain things I’d take from my 25 year old body but I love my experience and wisdom so much more! Don’t get me wrong, there are some days where I totally feel my age (especially when pregnant or newly postpartum), or have days when I look in the mirror and don’t love what I see, but I’ve honestly have had people in my gym ask me “what sport I play” (ie. in college…LOL…umm I graduated like 15 years ago) and some that can’t believe I have kids because I don’t look old enough and am so fit…and thats what I remind myself when I have a negative day!

Today, in honor of my 36th birthday I thought I would share 6 ways I really look after myself to not only feel young (read: energy), but look younger as well. In addition I’m sharing 3 of my favorite memories from this past year!

6 non negotiables on looking after yourself & the aging process

1. Sleep. Obviously this is a tough one if you are a mom (or parent). But, once the newborn/first year stage is over with I always make sleep a priority and try to get at least 7 hours a night no matter what is going on. Sometimes its hard to look away when you see laundry, dishes, etc. but that sleep will help repair your body, skin, and brain. Everything else will be there when you get up.

2. Exercise: You all know I love to stay active and workout…and that could vary from a 30 min walk with the kids to a run, or a lift! But moving helps my body look and feel SO MUCH younger. Start with small goals- don’t try and change your whole life. Add more movement 1 or 2 days a week and gradually increase. Everything in life is a habit and after 3 or 4 weeks you’ll find the habit has stuck more often than not. I love these pegasus Nike shoes, these zella live in leggings to run around in all day, my Apple ipods (so great for working out), and my Apple watch. I’ve also had a Fit bit and have enjoyed that as well!

3. Nutrition: I never grew up loving salads, fish, sweet potatoes, or vegetables. I ACQUIRED a taste for them because it is what makes my body feel good, and I want to live a long time! So, if I can do it, so can you! Change is hard, but we can do hard things ladies!!

   Change your mindset about eating and you’ll find you have more energy eating for alllll of the things! Eat vegetables, whole foods, etc. Give it time for you to start to accept it in your palette! And of course add in pizza and treats every now and again…remember that 80-20 rule :)

4. Water: I’m sure you’ve read this a thousand times, but drinking enough water affects your complexion, how you feel, and how your body functions. I can tell you with certainty that 95% of the time I have a headache its due to lack of water because I’ve been busy. I drink a couple glasses of water instead of reaching for medicine to “fix” my headache. Trust me. Drink your water! This is my favorite water bottle- keeps water cool for up to 24 hrs and is super cute. Can’t go wrong with Swell water bottles, great quality and make great gifts as well.

5. Stay out of the Sun: This is one that I probably have to thank my mom. I honestly was shielded as a kid lol- hat, so much sunscreen, stayed in the shade (I used to get sick in the sun!!) Nowadays I see young college students with more forehead wrinkles than me and it makes me so sad. Stay out of the sun and use SPF! I use SPF 30 even in the winter on my face, and wear hats in the summer to shield my face as well as SPF 50.

   There are so many great self tanners out there these days that you can use in your own home! I definitely hit up tanning beds after years of being covered up when I was a kid (I am super fair) which I completely regret but fingers crossed that into my mid-20s through now I have been super sun smart that I’ll be okay. Obviously you want to be sun smart because of cancer risks, but also think of your skin & aging! I’ve linked my favorite SPF’s from La Mer- the SPF 50 and the La Mer SPF 30 (use mostly in winter), as well as my favorite self tanners: Josie Maran & gradual self tanner Banana Boat. I use Josie Maran all the time and the gradual self tanner is really great too- I just started using that as well. Love this Lululemon hat & this Nike hat to keep your face out of the sun!

6. Mindset. I spoke about this briefly already but honestly I don’t “dread” my birthdays. I’m proud of who I am, how I look because I work hard at it, and look after myself so I have a lot of energy and don’t feel too much different than when I was 19. Both of my post baby bodies were fitter and leaner than when I was 19 (and I am determined to get there after my last baby!), and I’m a lot smarter, more experienced and stronger. Everything in life is mindset!

Goodbye 35….3 of my favorite memories this past year

1. Hitting up NYC for my birthday last year and taking a helicopter over the city. That was definitely one for the bucket list, and it was amazing to get away for 30 hours away from the crazy life of parenthood just the two of us!

2. Our family vaca to Hawaii: As stressful as it was traveling that far, it was awesome to have a family trip and catch up with family we haven’t seen from Aus/NZ. Seeing the boys connect with their cousins was amazing and we really had a great time. A trip I definitely won’t forget.

3. Finding out about Baby3: This was obviously a surprise, and initially we had mixed reactions but I think God had his plan for us and we are more than excited to meet this little guy!

Below I have listed some of my favorite products for my skin, staying healthy & active!

Thanks for reading & Hope you all have a great day!! xo

Alex

Aloha 19 weeks & LB Sales

Aloha from Hawaii! 

Hope you guys are all having a great weekend and have some fun plans for the holiday weekend. Its always different being away for holidays and Labor Day is no exception! Sure doesn't feel like Labor day- firstly, its so hot, and secondly HOW IS IT SEPTEMBER?!!! We are having an absolute blast here spending time with family and enjoying the Hawaiian laid back lifestyle! 

The Travel down here was pretty painful..we had some serious delays and traveling with two little kids is never easy. BUT the boys honestly did SO well for never flying on a long haul flight. We ended up traveling for close to 20 hours...so we were all exhausted when we got in. 

I'll be sharing more about the trip when we get back including tips for travel with kids on long haul flights, some things we have done here in Hawaii, and some what I packed :) 

19 Weeks & Counting..

Another week in the books! Almost halfway there! Still feeling really good, even though the travel def did a number on me! I was pretty tired when we landed just trying to take care of the kids, time change, altitude from flying etc. On the positive side, I was definitely not as swollen as I thought I was going to be!

I took Tuesday (travel day) off from working out and have gone on two runs since we got here. We've been doing some serious walking so I know I'm getting tons of activity in! I went to the gym one day with my bands (the gym here is pretty bad- no free weights)and made do with what was there.  I'll probably find a gym close by for a workout tomorrow while the boys are napping to get a pump in to at least get a second good leg day in this week.  ;) 

Its funny how with each pregnancy time seems to go faster and faster, clearly because you're so busy with the other kids! I also shudder at how big I am going to be in 20 more weeks! yikes.

Labor Day Sales: 

For today, I'm going to share a few sales that I've seen running over Labor Day weekend and live vicariously through ALLL of you because let's just say buying 90% of normal clothing is just a STRUGGLE rn #preggoprobs LOL. 

I've actually hit up Nordstrom while I've been down here and bought a few things that were pregnancy friendly, and they had awesome sales. 

 

1. I know I've spoke about these Madewell jeans before but they are really THAT comfy that I have to share that they are 40% off. 

2.This twist top is a great basic and you can't beat the price- under 20 bucks. 

3. These dark wash Paige jeans are a great fit and I love them for fall. I have this model of jean and they're one of my favorites. Totally recommend these and for just over $100? yes plz. 

4. Sam Edelman is one of my go-to's for date night, girls night or a trip away and I am completely obsessed with the rich color of these ankle strap sandals that you can wear well into October/November. The color is to die for, and again 30% off :) 

5. I got this super cozy and chunky cardi during the Anni Sale and I love it! 

The next group are from another great retailer that I love-Bloomingdales. They are having their "great big brown bag sale" over labor day weekend and it does not disappoint! Whenever I'm away and there's a bloomies in town, I make sure to hit it up. Here are a few great picks I've spotted: 

1. This Isabella Rose Strappy One Piece: Can I EVER make a list of good buys without adding a swimsuit? NOW is THE time to grab a suit. So many good deals, esp if you have a vaca planned in the next 4-6 months! 

2. Wilt's side slit tees. I have a few of these- so comfy, can be dressed up or down, are flattering, good quality... and while they're pricy, they don't hurt the wallet too bad being on sale. 

3. I've been on the hunt for a good summer silk bathrobe to wear when I'm getting ready. I think I'll be adding this one to my cart- 

4. I have loved this suit ever since it came out and still do. Snag this Tory Burch 2 piece NOW. 

5. A-Line dresses are always a win in my book and this dress and color is perfect for fall. I have a few of these and I love them on their own, layered with a denim jacket or fur vest (fall) and booties. Also.to be noted this is under 40 dollars #winning

Hope you have a Happy Labor day! Bring on fall! 

xo

Alex

4 Tips to Survive the 1st Trimester and Stay Active!

Hey hey everyone..

Happy August! I feel like stores every year push the "back to school" thing earlier and earlier and this year is no exception!! I'm super excited for August, another month of outdoor time with the family, and we have a vacation planned at the end of the month in Hawaii with all of my in-laws. We are SO so excited to really "getaway" and meet up with everyone. Anyone who has family that lives overseas knows the struggle and we are so looking forward to spending some time together in such a beautiful place! And yes, the boys are coming with us so I will be sure to keep you posted on how that travel goes Ha #RIPtous on that long flight. 

As I mentioned in my last post, the first trimester is finally over with and I've had a great first couple weeks of the second trimester! I've managed to stay active, and have more energy for sure! Unfortunately I have come down with a cold the last week so that's been a bit of a buzz kill. I swear that I can't have a pregnancy without getting sick at least once lol. The. WORST. 

Other than the breaking news that we are having another BOY (LOL!!), all my scans have come back great so far (which is amazing considering last pregnancy..what an emotional rollercoaster!) which is more important than anything else. 

Bumpdate

I won't bore you guys with the weekly "bumpdate" questions that sometimes you see, but I will give you the basics. I'm definitely closing in on maternity clothes (I'll be sharing my faves with all of you). Right now I can still fit into some of my "looser" clothes and shorts/pants that I bought during my "nursing and still losing weight phase" lol. Weight wise I've gained the same as the last two- I'm right around 10 or 11 lbs. I know to some people that might seem like a lot for 15 weeks but thats just how my body rolls! Cravings wise I always crave bad foods regardless of pregnancy haha. But some things I have been randomly loving more than usual are chicken sausage for breakfast, omelettes with tomatoes and cheese, parmesan cheese on pasta (I've definitely had more pasta than I normally do!), and I want cereal in the WORST way guys. I've only allowed myself to buy it once or twice because honestly I finish the whole dang box in about 2 days so...yeah those carbs are going straight to my thighs, not my baby!! 

Pregnant and working out

When I first got pregnant with my first I was so curious as to how other people felt working out: did they feel good? uncomfortable? Did their times/weights drop? Were they out out breath? I was coming off being a pro athlete and everything in my life was based around my workouts up until that point. Clearly...that all changed getting pregnant ha but I still wanted to stay active because it was such a big part of my life.

Basically, I wanted to know: Did they feel as bad as I did? Because I felt like total shit sometimes. Granted, that wasn't every day, but the bad days were tough. 

All of this was unchartered waters for me, so It was so reassuring to me to read articles where Olympians were being interviewed that they struggled at times with their mileage, times, and some didn't even run through their whole pregnancy. They had good days, and bad days...but staying active was so worth it was the overlying message!

I'll be sharing my workouts throughout my pregnancy (and hopefully some video as I continue on throughout the pregnancy) for those that are interested/curious and hopefully this helps someone who could be struggling with their workouts while pregnant! Remember, one day at a time and listen to your body! 

A lot of people are amazed at times how active I'm able to stay during pregnancy, and the first trimester is no exception! So many hormones and the fatigue is so fricking real.

I wanted to share some tips that helped me through my 3 pregnancies first trimesters in staying active!

4 tips to staying active and surviving!

1. Go to bed early: I would have to say this is my number 1 tip. Honestly, DVR the TV shows and catch them another time. Your body will thank you for it. I am always so tired by the end of the day and going to bed early always helped me be super productive a majority of the following day! I also have 2 boys that are early risers (like, 6 am wake up) so I *have* to bed in bed early!

2. Drink tons of water: I know this might seem super obvious, but a lot of times when I felt slightly nauseous or sick, water , fresh air and a little movement always helped me. Being on the go makes it hard to hydrate sometimes so remind yourself! Make sure you are drinking tons of water to help hydrate yourself! Lack of water can cause so many things including headaches and fatigue..

3. Stay the course: Try to stay as disciplined as you can with working out. I know its tough, especially when you don't feel good, but honestly getting moving is the BEST medicine. Sometimes it was like pulling teeth getting myself downstairs in my gym, or on a run, or having the discipline to workout at the fitness gym I go to, but I ALWAYS felt better after. You better bet I was taking longer rest breaks, lifting a lot less/running a lot slower, but I WAS THERE. Moving. Sweating. Endorphins. All the good stuff. And if you can't get yourself to do the "hard things", just walk. I walked soooo much this first trimester. 

4. Listen to your body: Nobody knows your body like you. I know myself and when I really need a "rest day" and when I'm just being lazy! If you need the rest, take it! But listen to you heart- it will tell you what you really "need." Take that nap or rest day if your body is asking for it! Being honest with yourself is so important to living a healthy and active lifestyle whether you are pregnant or not. 

I was actually about 9 weeks pregnant in these photos!

First trimester Workouts:

Week 8: No weight gain, horribly tired. 

Sun: 3 miles: 7:58, 7:36, 7:20- felt awesome! Monday: Lower Lift. Tuesday: Off. Wednesday: Upper and HIIT with sled. Thursday: Home workout. Friday: Lower Lift. Saturday: off

Week 9: 1 pound weight gain, feeling more bloated. Tired AFFFFF!!!!!

Sunday: Run @ soccer tournmaent I coached- 7:55, 8:26, 8:10 (was literally 90 degrees...so hot!). Monday: LOwer Lift. Tuesday 2.75 miles 8:18, 8:28. Wednesday: Sled HIIT and upper lift. Thursday: Lower Lift. Friday: off. Saturday 3 miles with stroller: 8:40, 8:03, 8:00. 

Week 10: +2 pound weight gain. Starting to show a little especially at night! 

Sunday: home workout. Monday: lower Lift. Tuesday: off. Wednesday: 3 mile run, very very slow. Thursday: Upper lift and sleds. Friday: lower lift. Saturday 5 400's with strength in between: squats, pushups, lunges)

Week 11: +3 pounds 

Sunday: home lift, Monday: off (glute was bothering me). Tuesday 2 mile run. Wednesday: Home lift. Thursday: 3 miles- 8:08, 7:53, 7:50, Saturday: Off. 

Week 12: +3 lbs

Sunday: 3.25 miles, 8:19, 8:04, 8:29. Monday: Lower Lift. Tuesday: 1 800, 2 400s, 4 200s, 6 100s @ track. Wednesday: soccer workout. Thursday: Upper lift and HIIT sleds. Friday: Lower Lift and soccer workout. Saturday off. 

Week 13: +5 lbs 

Sunday: home workout. Monday: lower lift. Tuesday: 3 miles: 8:17, 8:13, 8:37 (died at end!). Wednesday off. Thursday Upper Lift and HIIT sleds. Friday: lower Lift. Saturday 3 miles 8:20, 7:48, 7:49

Week 14: +7 lbs

Sunday: off. Monday: 4 800s, 400 m job inbetween. Tuesday Home lift. Wednesday Lower Lift. Thursday Soccer workout. Friday: upper and HIIT workout. Saturday: off. 

Have a great weekend loves!

xo

Alex