Needing the toilet during runs?

[roamingcat]

Hi all,

I've recently managed to make running a bit more of a habit (going out 2-3 times a week for a 5k) which is great, but recently towards the end of the run (4k mark/ a few minutes towards the end) I've really been needing to go to the toilet - to the point where I have to stop running and on one occasion have not made it home in time!! 😩

This is really stressful and it's putting me off running, and means I'm not confident enough to try a park run in case it happens (ours is a 15-20 min walk from home). I've been running first thing in the morning (as it means I can definitely fit it in and I like it to be quiet) and I'm wondering if this is part of the problem.

So, has this happened to anyone else? (some support would be great!) and does anyone have any tips to help?

Pelvic floor exercises?

I mean mumsnet isn’t the best place to ask because you’ll get tonnes of answers explaining how normal it is to just piss in public like an animal, and how everyone has been ‘caught short’ and needed to have a ‘nature wee.’

How long does the run take you? Most people should be able to manage without using the toilet for an hour or so, if this isn’t possible I’d consider a visit to the GP for a check over. Or I’d try running at a gym. It may be anxiety over thinking you will need the toilet that makes it feel so urgent.

How to Avoid Pooping | How to Avoid Pooping During a Race (runnersworld.com)

It's well known that running induces bowel movements if that's what you are talking about. Some suggestions here.

You don't say if you mean number 1 or number 2. I've been running a while and haven't heard of it happening for numbers ones but it's well known that running can bring on the need for a number 2! I'm very regular and always go first thing before I run but one of my friends has been known to take dog poop bags with her! I guess it might get better the more you run and your body gets used to the motion. Or maybe you could do a short loop to start so you can go home use the toilet then set off again?

Are there any toilets near you that you could plan into your route? Like public toilets or one in a library?

Run very rurally.

Or give up. Which is what I had to do after training for a half marathon. Sometimes it happened at 2 miles, sometimes at 7 miles.

Eventually I had to take immodium for training runs and on the day of the half marathon I took two immodium.

It didn't make any difference if I pooed before I left or not.

Very common with running! I also run first thing in the morning so before I go, I have something to eat which will 'get me moving'. Eat, go to the toilet, then out of the door to run!
You'll know your body and what works to make you go quickly... maybe even just a coffee, or a banana.