Running while pregnant...?

Question

I am 20 weeks pregnant, and am a runner. Unfortunatly I have not been able to run during the earlier months of my pregnancy due to extreme morning sickness. Now the morning sickness is virtually gone and I would really like to start running again. Before the pregnancy I ran 20 miles a week. Is it bad for the baby if I start running again at this stage of my pregnancy?

Answer 1

Yes, it can be harmful for the baby!

Answer 2

Only your doctor can be sure for your individual case.Everybody, every body, and every pregnancy is different.

Answer 3

It's fine if you've been running.  There was an article in Runner's World about Paula Radcliffe when she was pregnant and she ran an easy 10K, which for her is like 40 some odd minutes.  Anyway, just don't run right after you have the baby because that's when it's bad for you.  Your insides have just been stretched out and are all over the place that your body needs time to adjust to not having a baby in there anymore.  Paula did and it almost destroyed her season.  

Answer 4

yeah. i hear that if you are already running. then it is ok!  let me know because when i am pregnant i want to be able to run. easier to get those pounds off when you finally have it. not as much to work at.

Answer 5

More than likely you can but you need to clear it with your Dr.First.I know it should be OK and it will help with the delivery.

Answer 6

No, but I hear you should stop around your 3rd trimester.

Answer 7

The doctor I saw while I was pregnant was actually a specialist on exactly this topic.  She is a marathon runner and a mother of four.  She told me that if your body is used to it it is fine.  Watch your heart rate, you should be able to talk.  Just be careful not to overexert yourself and remember that you have a greater chance for muscle injuries.

Answer 8

No, it's not bad for the baby. I actually had to take a little time off as well because I had awful morning sickness at first. My doctor told me as long as I watch my heart rate and keep a comfortable conversational pace, I could continue to run as long as I wanted to. I scaled back my miles significantly and just ran for fun. You don't have to stop during your 3rd trimester, although a lot of women do because at that point, you get so uncomfortable and big!

You should always check with your doctor before doing or starting back up any activity. Good luck to you!