Running in the dark pregnant

[Whatthefuckisgoingon]

So I go to a running club twice a week which I really enjoy. Do from 5km-7km a time, I’m fairly new to it and I know the exercise is good for me so do want to keep it up but I am around 8 weeks pregnant and I’ve had two miscarriages this year so the thought of falling or something is really worrying me. The club starts at 7.30 so obviously it’s almost dark then, it’s always a different route so I never know where we will be going and quite often it’s slippy/ wet leaves/uneven ground. I do have a running light but obviously the risk is still there. My partner gets back late from work so that’s the only time I could go anyway and I do really enjoy the social side and running in a group. I don’t know If I should stop for a bit. Thoughts please

[AuntieStella]

a) talk to the group leader, and explain that you want to know in advance what the route will be each week so you can decide if it is safe enough underfoot, or if you can do a modified version of it.

b) even though you like this group, see if there are others you could join for a few months

c) if you can't find a group that you can make work for you for now, then try parkrun plus some individual runs

d) see if any of your running club mates would be interested in running at other times with you. They'll all be running a few times a week, and might like company too

[Runningonempty84]

I'd get a headtorch and carry on. The health benefits (mental and physical) far outweigh the tiny risk IMO.
I ran throughout both my pregnancies with no issues, and that's pretty standard for most of my running friends.

[Whatthefuckisgoingon]

Thanks for the replies! @OhioOhioOhio I don’t really know to be honest - I’m in two minds. Running has really helped me after a bit of tough year, really clears my head plus i do want to keep fit. I’m feeling extremely anxious this time around x

[HillRunner]

I would invest in a really good headtorch. Staying fit will be beneficial for you and your baby, and there's no reason the dark should be more dangerous if you appropriately equipped.

Get a decent headtorch, ideally one with a red light on the back of the head too (for traffic visibility). It'll cost a bit, but not as much as a gym would.

[OhioOhioOhio]

There are loads of things that are not worth the worry during pregnancy.

[KellyHall]

Why don't you speak to other runners in the group? Maybe some of them train at a gym sometimes and you could join them indoors if you're concerned? Or maybe you could just do something in a gym during the winter to kepp fit, if you're that new to the running group would it be so bad to not go for a few months?

[OhioOhioOhio]

Obviously no judgement. But why would you put yourself through it?

[lljkk]

I would still go running but I'm not a worrier or a safety first person. Most m/c happen b/c of gene problems, very very rarely from a fall.

But it's not my decision. I find most women blame themselves for anything that goes wrong in pregnancy no matter how illogical so doesn't matter what logical thing I say. Could you find another way to go running since this is obviously worrying you.