Tips for Mom Runners
There’s just something about the New Year that screams clean slate to me. It awakens dreams that I sometimes never even knew I had inside of me. Six years ago for New Year’s, I realized my dream to run a marathon. We were in the thick of infertility treatments and I needed something to get my mind off of it so I began training for a marathon. It was one of the best things I have ever done for myself. I poured my soul into training and didn’t spend as much time obsessing over my need for a baby.
During that time, I was at peace while I quickly realized my physical and mental strengths and limitations. I finished my training in six months and ran my first ever marathon in 4 hours 1 minute and 7 seconds. Six years and two babies later, I’m ready to feel that peace and get to know myself again. I’m finding that it’s a whole new set of physical and mental strengths and limitations now though. As I take this journey I want to share 5 Tips for Mom Runners that are getting me through the physical and mental trials.
5 Tips for Mom Runners
1. Set realistic and measurable goals
I didn’t decide on January 1st that fateful year that I was going to run a marathon. Instead, I set a goal to train to run a 5K in two months. Through my training, I realized a goal pace that I could be comfortable with and I modified my goal to finish the 5K under a certain time. Even if you’ve never run a day in your life, training for a 5K is doable. It’s just a matter of setting your mind to it.
2. Be consistent
Figure out a time in the day that works best to get in a run and try to run at least three times per week. Between my husband’s and my schedule, the best time for us right now is directly after work. This entails some planning on my part, seeing as I leave my house by 6 am with both girls. I make sure to pack everything I need the night before and leave it by the door before heading up to bed.
3. Don’t feel guilty
I’ve learned that the worst kind of guilt is Mom Guilt. It literally, makes me lose myself because I become so fixated on the needs’ of my girls. Let’s be honest for a second thought. The best mom is the one that is happy and healthy. Running for me creates that balance that I need for my sanity. It releases stress for me and I’m working towards my pre-babies body at the same time. The biggest take away is that a happy mama is a good mama.
4. Talk about your goals with your family and friends
Once you put it on the table that you are aspiring to do something, it holds you accountable. It took me a good two weeks before I told my husband that I was training for a marathon. His response, “that’s a long way. You’re going to need some new kicks.” You’ll be shocked at how supportive family and friends can be. You might even inspire someone to become your running buddy.
5. Cut yourself some slack
As mothers, we’re already running in fourteen different directions so if it’s a day to run and you’re battling a cold, then take a rest day and modify your training schedule. You need to do what works best for you and your family.
In the end, all that truly matters, is that you are finding time for yourself. The bonus is that you’re going to start feeling better, which in turn will give you more energy. So, this New Year carve out some time for you and take time to run.
ABOUT JENNY: Jenny is a wife, mother and reading specialist in a low income city school district. She is also the the founder of thenymelrosefamily.com – a lifestyle website sharing crafts, recipes, diy and party planning projects perfect for those looking for something quick and easy. With two girls under the age of five, Jenny’s projects are toddler friendly and the perfect opportunity to create a special moment with your family.
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