What are you wearing to run?

[LarryAdler]

Hi, am 16+3 with DC 2. Am still running, but am struggling to find something comfy to wear! I've got a small bump and it feels like I should be supporting it/holding it n in somehow. Is there some kind of support band you can get or do I just need big lycra shorts?! Cheers

I used a supportive band until I stopped running at 36 weeks- like wide elastic that went under bump (cant remember where I got it from - try google?). Managed to get away with shorts pushed down at the front and an oversize race t shirt so didn't buy anything special (the band sort of covered the gap!).

Thanks, thought there might be something. Will go and have a look

larry, I'm nearly 30 weeks and have the same question as you. I've been using a thick elastic support belt from JoJo Maman Bebe, which has been great, but I feel now that I need something more substantial.

I used a supportive band until I stopped running at about 23 weeks. Think I got it from New Look but have seen them only today in JoJo Maman Bebe. I think a lady from my running club also got one from a specialist sports shop that might be more supportive but I can't recall where from . . . If I find out I'll let you know

hi there,

I'm not running (stopped when felt so tired and sick, now I don't like the idea of running with a bump!) but for my last pregnancy I had backache and bought a bump support band from mothercare- a big elastic band - maybe that'll do the trick?

oooh - i ran until 8 months with DS and used a belly Bra which was great - holds you boobs and tummy :)

here they are

your not you

I'm only six weeks pregnant with my first and was so happy to find this post and to hear that some of you were out there running comfortably until 8 months. I've had some nausea and fatigue, but to be honest, the best I've been feeling is when I'm out for a run. Must be the endorphins. Will take note of the suggestions for proper gear and will hopefully continue to feel good enough to run for as long as possible!

I've got a supportive band from JoJo Maman Bebe which seems to help for now - might look at a belly bra as I get bigger (just coming up for 20 weeks now with noticeable bump). There isn't much info out there about running while pregnant which means I've felt pretty nervous about doing it. I've been tentatively running since I knew I was pregnant, including completing a 10km race at 11 weeks, but have mostly switched to swimming, antenatal yoga and aerobics classes (where the instructor knows I'm pregnant) at my gym.

I'm thinking about doing a half marathon in 2 weeks time but don't know if I'm just being stupid/irresponsible as whenever I mention it to people I'm met with slightly shocked expressions. I did a full marathon (my first and only!) 2 weeks before conceiving and have done about half a dozen halves over the past few years, so I have a fair idea what I'm letting myself in for. But have never been pregnant before - eeek!

Obviously if I do run it I'll be very careful and take it slowly. My latest technique is to jog for 10 minutes then walk for 5, which is useful to take stock of how I'm feeling - v important since previous training e.g. for the marathon has taught me to ignore mild twinges and discomfort and keep going - not the best idea in pregnancy I suspect! So if I do it, it would probably be my slowest half marathon ever - not that I would care of course!

Anyone else continuing to run long distances while pregnant?

I'm pretty sure Paula Radcliffe is still doing 1/2 marathons - seriously ou could google her and see if you can find out what she's been up to. It sounds like you are v experienced and I think the basic rule is that it is ok to keep doing what you're used to doing. I don't run (unless chased by a tiger) but I was still cycling at 40 weeks and that got some raised eyebrows too

Thanks for my all your responses - thought my thread had dropped off!
I ran on and off for the first 12 weeks, it was the only thing that relieved my sickness, but I was knackered too. Am 17+1 now and just doing 2-3 miles 2/3 times a week. Feels like I am really plodding and it takes me a while to actually feel comfortable, but actually am not going much slower than usual.
I found some great advice on an NHS website and my fab GP just told me to keep at it, just be sensible. I would go for the half, Piranha and just go steady and be prepared to stop if you need to.
Have to say, I am starting to feel a bit self concious about running with a bump, and trying hard not to! It's easier when I go with my running buddy, but on my own I jut have to keep telling myself I am setting other people a good example!
Be good to hear what other people are doing - keep me inspired!

Hurrah for ebay - one belly bra coming my way!

Can I ask you about beginning running when pregnant? I've literally only just got a BFP so must only be four weeks. We weren't ttc but lust took over!

I was planning to start going running but now I'm not sure. Is it a silly thing to start now? Perhaps I should just swim instead....

Hi missp2010. The general advice is that whatever exercise you are used to doing, is OK to continue (as long as you are sensible about it and make whatever modifications are necessary) when you are pregnant, but that you shouldn't start a new form of exercise (other than walking, swimming, or pregnancy yoga/pregnancy pilates). So I wouldn't recommend taking up running now. I was an experienced long distance runner before pregnancy and found I had to give up at about 14 weeks because it just started feeling horrible during and after. I think that is part of the key thing - if you are not already used to running you'll find it harder to know what the difference is between normal exertion and feeling unusually crappy. Also I think that to run successfully during pregnancy you need to have built up a good strong technique and to have developed the necessary leg muscles - during pregnancy the relaxin hormone can make your hips, knees and ankles go all wibbly wobbly and if you don't already have a good strong technique, then you are at increased risk of falling, injuring yourself, or exacerbating any SPD you might be about to get. That was another reason why I stopped - I felt my pelvis starting to move in unusual ways!
How about some fast walking, uphill? That will give you a good workout! If you are a member of a gym, you could ask them if they have a trainer who does antenatal fitness and ask for a programme?

Congratulations!