Pregnancy Fitness Must Haves

I’ve been blessed with a fairly easy pregnancy.  I didn’t have much morning sickness (actually I had none.  Zero.  Zilch.  I only three up once and that was about 4 weeks ago when I choked on some corn. )  I had a few nights during my first trimester where dinner was less than appealing, but I always ended up eating something.  I’ve had no food aversions and really no cravings. I hadn’t been ungodly uncomfortable, with swelling and peeing and all that stuff.  My blood pressure stays around 100/62 every time I go to the doctor.  My weight gain is at the lower end of the range that the doctors want to see (I actually haven’t gained more than maybe 2 pounds since mid-March although baby and belly are growing).  I go into the doctor’s office for my weekly/biweekly and monthly check ups and the nurses and doctors always say “You are our easy patient today”.  I like that.  It took me 7 years of marriage to decide that I did in fact want to have a child so at least it hasn’t been a horrible experience. 

One of the most important factors in me having such a great pregnancy is my activity.  From day one, I’ve said that I’ll do everything in my power to stay active because I know that it’s good for me (mentally and physically), but more importantly it’s good for my baby girl.  I’m not going to lie… working out hasn’t always been a breeze as my belly grows, but I’ve adapted.  I try to get 45 minutes to an hour of some kind of movement each day.  I ran regularly until about 33 weeks, and now it’s more of a once a week kind of thing.  I biked on the bike trainer religiously through 29 weeks and still plop myself on the bike as much as possible.  And I walk.  A lot.  Walking in our neighborhood or town is a little different than just a leisurely walk.  It’s a workout.  I’m talking, heart pumping, sweat dripping workout.  If you question that walking can be hard, I invite you to come walk with Tom and I anytime!  

People ask “how do you do it comfortably”.  Here are some things that have helped me:

     

      Gear: 

• Make sure that you are in comfortable clothes.  As my belly grew, I needed to change my workout clothes a little.  I switched from regular bike shorts to men’s bike bibs as they fit over my belly better.  Yep, I rocked them with a sport bra and they were dead sexy.  Just remember, I biked indoors in the privacy of my basement so I didn’t have to scar anyone by seeing that.  It’s a sight, trust me.

• I bought loose coolmax shirts that were a size or two bigger than I usually wear.  I didn’t invest in maternity specific bottoms, but again, went with shorts and capri’s that are a size or two bigger, with a big waist band (TJMaxx was great for both the pants and tops and they didn’t break the bank).  I made sure that the waist band could be worn over my belly or under it.  Roll down yoga pants became a lifesaver.  Runingskirts.com had a maternity line and I was lucky enough to get one of their maternity skirts to try out.  I love it – it has a high belly panel which I can wear up or fold down.  They also sent me a cute sleeveless maternity shirt that is flattering and functional.  

• I made sure that I had a great sports bra.  The first thing that grew were the girls (TMI?  It’s a fact people…) I really love these from Zensah (– it’s seamless and supportive).  I needed at least once size bigger.

• Unlike many women I haven’t been constantly hot during my pregnancy. Actually, I’m usually layered and Tom and I joke that we live in different climates because I have more clothing on than he does. I found that when it was cooler, I needed a coat that I would stretch around my belly and that I could shed easily when I got warm.  I got the Zensah Seamless Power running jacket in a size Medium and it's perfect.  It stretches about my belly because of the material, but I know that I will be able to wear it when I'm not pregnant and it'll fit fine.  The sleeves are long, there are great thumb holes, and there's a pocket in the back that fits my phone and keys.

•  Around 20 weeks, I invested in a maternity running belt.  I did some research because I found that my growing belly needed some support and that the Gabrialla Maternity Belt MS 96(i) was well liked with other runners.  I could only find it on amazon.com and it was probably the most clutch item that I purchased to stay active.  I was feeling more round ligament pain during running and also started getting Braxton hicks contractions when I ran (which just feels like my whole belly was tight).  I wear the belt religiously when I run and have actually put it on a few times in the last week or so when I walk.  It’s a weird sensation to have your big belly just hanging out, so the belt helps.

•  Compression is my friend.  I’ve always loved my Norma Tech boots which I use a lot (after getting the okay from my doctor).  I often times feel like I have a tad bit of swelling (many times on only one side, depending on how baby girl is laying which is weird but totally normal) so I have been wearing compression socks or sleeves a lot.  Zensah has an ultra compression sleeve which is super tight and I have really liked using those.  I also like a good full compression sock because they cover my ankles and don’t really have a favorite brand.

• Comfortable shoes – I am part of the Brooks ID program.  I love their shoes and gear.  I wish they had a maternity line because I only have a few shirts and shorts from them that fit right now.  But their shoes are awesome.  So maybe I’m a bit biased on their brand, but a comfortable, well supported shoe is key.  You are carrying extra weight and need to be supported.  

Accessories

• I always carry my phone with me if Tom isn’t around (although very rarely do we work out alone).  If something happens or I don’t feel right, I can call to have someone come get me (that hasn’t happened, but I want to be prepared)
• I wear my RoadID Slim every day. It has Tom’s phone number and my mom’s.  Again, better to be safe than sorry.

•  I carry water.  I drink a lot of water anyway, but when working out, I make sure that I have extra water to make sure that I don’t get dehydrated.  Dehydration can cause a lot of problems during pregnancy and I have found causes more contractions.  I also come home and immediately drink about 20 ounces of liquid… even after a nice slow stroll around the neighborhood with the dog.

• I always eat something before I workout and usually find that I eat during my workout (maybe a granola bar or something small).  I haven’t had any nausea during workouts, but I find that I feel really hungry sometimes and I’d rather not have my blood sugar drop or anything when I’m out.

Expectations (and this is a big one)

• I let go of all reliance on pace and distance.  As an endurance athlete, I always find that I get fixated on how far I’ve gone or how fast I’m going.  My pre-pregnancy pace has gone from 8:30’s to, well, I don’t know.  Maybe 12:30’s, although I don’t know that for a fact.  I run until I feel like I want to be done.   Or I’ll say “I would like to run 7 laps around the pond”.  Sometimes I make it 9.  Sometimes I stop at 3.  I run for time (only because I’m always going to be type A).  I bike for time and actually took my magnet off my back wheel.  I don’t care what my pace is.  
• If I’m feeling off, I’m totally okay with saying that I’m off and switching things up – cutting a bike short, walking the rest of my run, etc.  It’s happened a lot.  I learned to listen to my body.  I don’t push through being uncomfortable.  I used to do that and I will again.  It’s part of being an athlete and I know that.  There are times when things are hard, and things ache and that’s all part of getting better.  Not during pregnancy.  If something hurts or feels off, it’s not right.  You can’t push yourself with a baby growing inside of you. :) 
• Although many people suggest keeping your heart rate under 140 when pregnant, it wasn’t realistic for me as an athlete prior to getting pregnant.  Yes, I talked to my doctor about it.  Instead I use the talk test.  If I can talk, I’m going a good pace.  If I become winded or short of breath, I slow down or take a break.  If I can’t breathe, my baby can’t breathe.  Simple as that.
• I don’t care what people think when they see me (and this is easier said than done).  When my belly was just starting to grow, I was super self conscious about it because I looked pudgy. Now I’m rocking a basketball belly and I’m proud of it. I don’t care if I’m waddling when I walk.  My “running” has become wogging (waddle+jogging) and I’m proud of it.  Luckily I’ve not had anyone tell me that I’m doing something wrong by staying active (quite the opposite actually).  Most days I get a “you go girl” when someone sees me working up a hill or shuffling along a trail.  I’m proud of my body for what it’s capable of in terms of carrying a baby AND being fit.

Check with your doctor

This is the most important thing you can do to stay active.  If there are any complications, let the professionals tell you what you can and can’t do.  I was very active prior to getting pregnant (hello, I was training for Ironman Florida) so I knew that it wasn’t realistic to go from swimming, biking and running every day to leisurely walking or nothing.  But for some people, that’s all they can do.  I know my body better than a lot of people and my doctor gave me a lot of freedom to create a plan that works for me based on how I feel.  My number one priority right now is Abigail.  I would never do anything that would harm her or put her at risk of being harmed.  And with less than 5 weeks until she’s here, I feel like I’ve helped her by staying active.  I know that it’ll help me with delivery and recovery.  I’m hoping I bounce back fast from everything.  But we’ll just take one day at a time.

Do you have any questions about working out while pregnant or what worked for me?

If you are pregnant, what are you doing to keep active?

If you see a pregnant woman with a full on basketball belly working out, would you be proud of her and yell “You go girl”?  (you should!!!)

April goals

As I posted back in January (or was it February?) I'm not good at making resolutions and sticking with them.  I decided to take one month at a time, especially with the pregnancy, and just make a goal for myself.  I'd do everything in my power to hit that goal.  In January and February it was to do something physical every day and I did a darn good job at that.  In February and March it was to not eat out as much.   Just little things that I can try to do to help my life. :)

So we're on to April.  Working out is becoming a little more of a struggle.  I could blame the ever growing belly, but that's just an excuse really.  Come to find out that this whole third trimester thing is no joke.  Momma is T.I.R.E.D. And I'm finding that my will to workout is sometimes overshadowed by my will to get a project done around the house.  Or to nap.  But I've been working on it as much as possible.  I kind of had a falling out with my bike trainer so I haven't been on that in a while.  Shhh... I still haven't gotten myself to the pool.  Running is difficult... I did it 3 times TOTAL in March.  That leaves me with walking, which I've been doing a ton of.  With the recent events in our life, Tom and I have had plenty to talk about and the walks tend to clear my mind (and totally suck the life out of me most days).  As the weather gets nicer, I foresee longer walks and more frequent walks - sure beats sitting on a bike trainer in the basement reading US Weekly.

Where was I going with this?  Oh yes... my goal for April.  My goal is to run each week the number of miles that corresponds with how many weeks I have until my baby girl comes.  I will hopefully do this up to my due date.  So this week I'm at 31 weeks which means that I have 9 weeks until baby Girl makes her grand appearance.  That means, my goal for this week is to run 9 miles.  9 miles.  That's it.  Sounds easy enough and most everyone who reads my blog will be like "really Colleen?", but let me explain. 

Running is hard.  I had these grandiose intentions of running until the day I delivered.  Being that lady.  But  I waddle when I walk so you can only imagine the image of me "wogging" as I like to call it (waddling + jogging = wogging).  My bump isn't all cute and little.  It's out there.  Like "wham, I swallowed a basketball" out there.   And people, it ain't getting any smaller! :)  I have to take some walk breaks when I get to the hills or else the contractions start.  I feel like I'm breathing through a straw as Abigail has found a nice cozy place to reside between my lungs and my diaphragm.  Inevitably I have to pee like 7 times during a run.  For me to get a good 30 minutes of "wogging" in is actually more of a 45 minutes process.  9 miles will not take me 81 glorious minutes like it used to.  9 miles will take me a long time.

So that's my goal.  This week it's 9 miles.  Next week only 8.  If I can go longer, awesome.  If I struggle with just hitting my goal, so be it.  I've gotten some pretty great items lately (from the likes of Zensah, Runningskirts.com, Brooks) that will keep me going and I'll write about those in the coming days.

So that's my goal.  Laugh at me if you must.  Just don't do it to my face because I'm an emotional wreck and will probably just start sobbing.  Then you'll feel bad because you made the pregnant girl cry and the only way to make me feel better is to buy me Peanut M&M's. :)

True story.

Lesson of the day

Here's my lesson of the day - think before you speak.

It's not hard in theory, really, but I just don't get some people.  And here it is, 17 hours after someone spoke before thinking and I'm still fired up.  Maybe it's because of the person that said it and their inability to care or maybe it's the words, but in any event, I'm all fired up and this post will probably show that (that's my warning to you... hehehe)

I've smiled many times at stupid things that people have said to me over the years.  I've gotten fired up a time or two as well, I'll admit that.  Like the time we were ordering "Running On Insulin" rubber bracelets for a 4 mile race Tom and I were organizing to raise money for a local Diabetes Organization and the lady from the company that makes the bracelets suggested that we only order extra large ones since we were talking about diabetes.  The "you must be overweight to have diabetes" conversation does indeed fire me up.  A lot. And I would say that 100% of the time, it's because people don't know about the disease and don't think before they speak.

Or how about the number of times that a person says "oh I've run a marathon too - it was five miles and so hard".  That's cute.  I don't get too fired up about that one because again, it's probably more from lack of knowledge than anything.  I usually smile and try to correct them on what a marathon is, but sometimes I figure it's easier to not offend them by telling them they are wrong.  And I get that people don't understand that an Ironman is a triathlon.  So is a half Ironman, an Olympic distance, a sprint distance, etc.  Heck, any time you swim and then bike and then run, you are doing a triathlon. I've done that one a Tuesday in mid January at the gym. It doesn't matter the distance.

I guess it only really bothers me when someone speaks out of line. 

Remember the lady that asked me how many babies I was carrying when I was about 16 weeks along?  Or that she started that conversation by looking at my husband and saying "you did her good".  Yeah, that's not really appropriate and I'm assuming that she didn't think before speaking. (Of course, being me, I laughed about that for a while). 

So lately, as my belly grows and grows, people speak up.  What is it about talking to pregnant women and just saying whatever comes to mind - WITHOUT THINKING?  It's like your eyes see the bump and your mind says "I must make a comment, preferably inappropriate or something that will totally offend this poor woman who is overly emotional as it is". I've read so many blogs of friends who have written about what people have said to them as they are pregnant.  It's an epidemic if you ask me.  Most of it I can brush off, but sometimes my jaw drops, and I remain in awe.

Last night, Tom and I were talking to said person who fired me up.  I should preface it with the fact that I can easily get fired up about things this person says, but last night was classic.  They asked to see a picture of my growing belly and I sent them this one:

It's from Sunday.  I'm 29 weeks pregnant.  My belly is measuring two weeks ahead.  I've gained 18 pounds and I think besides my belly and chest, I have not gained a single pound elsewhere.  I'm damn proud of myself for this, for the fact that I still work out every day and that I feel like I'm having a healthy pregnancy.  I posted this picture on Facebook (which I'm hesitant to do because I'm so self conscious already) and people have been so incredibly nice, saying I look great and flattering me with compliments (which let me tell you, any pregnant woman at 29 weeks will gladly take a compliment about how they look great).  But not the person we were talking to last night.  Nope.  Their comment was "wow, you are huge.  And even in black clothes which usually make someone look so slim". 

Seriously.

My blood is still boiling.  Now I didn't send it to her in hopes that she would compliment me (I don't think she knows how to do such a thing), but seriously?  THINK.BEFORE.YOU.SPEAK!  I wanted to cry.

So here's my lesson for the day. If you see a pregnant woman, any pregnant women, don't tell her how big she is.  Think before saying what comes to mind first.  Remember that she's probably a little self conscious about the fact that she has a belly for the first time in her life, that she can't see her feet, that she can't tie her shoes, that maybe, just maybe she has finally accepted that this is part of the process and that she looks in the mirror and sees a healthy mom to be who is going to love her little girl more than anything in the world.  Definitely more than she will love you for making your stupid comment.
 

Drinking the kool-aid

Or something like that.  I had my 28 week appointment this morning and with that, came the test for gestational diabetes.  If you don't know what that entails, it's drinking 50 grams of pure sugar in the form of an orange drink and then exactly one hour later having your blood glucose (BG) level tested via a  blood draw.  I know a lot about this stuff because I'm married to a type 1 diabetic.   I also know that I don't want gestational diabetes.  I wasn't looking forward to this.

I had to fast starting at midnight.  Of course I woke up at 4:30 with the biggest rumbles in my stomach.  At 8:30 I drank the juice.  I swear it's the Hi-C orange drink that I used to love from McDonald's as a kid.  It's a shame that it's what our kids drink.  I had no problems getting it down... it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought.

At 8:50 I checked my BG (because again, I'm married to a Type 1... I have the tools to check readily available).  I was 108 - which is perfect.  Good.  Maybe this will go well.  I got to the doctor at 9:20 and checked again - 138.  WHAT?  Ugh... They drew my blood exactly an hour after I finished the drink and I asked my doctor what BG number would cause me to "fail" and have to repeat - 130 or higher.  Oye ve... when I got to the car, I tested again and was at 88 so I'm hoping it dropped enough between getting out of the car and getting my blood drawn.  I know that I don't have gestational diabetes based on those number and the fact that I fell to a very normal range by 9:45, but we'll see.  I sure hope I don't have to repeat this - drinking that stuff again and sitting at the doctors for 3 hours does not sound like my version of a fun day!

The doctor gave me a great report - blood pressure is 100/60 (nice and low) and at 28 weeks, I'm up 17 pounds.  He said that he couldn't be happier with that.  Then they measured the bump.  Now I've been saying all along that it's big (Tom lovingly reaffirms that about 16 times a day) - I know people that are at the same place as me and are MUCH smaller.  And I am right... my belly is measuring 2 weeks ahead!  Hahaha... at least the weight gain isn't too much.  I'm fine with it.  It's not like he was telling me something I didn't know. Right now that doesn't mean much.  I think Tom's hoping that it doesn't mean I deliver early because that would be right around the time of Ironman Texas! :)

I'm still running and biking and walking.  I'm winded a lot more.  I waddle some a lot.  It's all part of it. :)  I'm loving this whole experience though.  It's truly amazing!!!  And I feel like the next 12 weeks are going to be the slowest 12 weeks of my life until I get to meet this sweet little girl!

Update and photos galore...

It's hard to believe that I'm already 26 weeks along and that my third trimester is creeping closer and closer.  I can feel it too - I'm getting bigger, I'm more tired, I'm winded, I'm cranky.  It could be a long 13.5 weeks for poor Tom (although he's amazing... not that anyone needed a reminder of that though). Just a few updates for you -

•  Yes, I'm getting bigger.  I'm okay with it... really I am.  I'm actually way better with it than I thought that I would be.  You know, it's hard when you are an athlete that already struggles with self image issues to watch yourself grow by the day, but feeling Abigail kicking and knowing that in less than 100 days I'll get to hold my sweet girl, eh, getting big is a small price to pay.  I am looking forward to warmer weather where I can get away with flip flops, cottons skirts and tanks though!  I'm kind of over the maternity jeans and barely fitting coats.  This is my view most days - I can still see my feet! YAY...

• My child has an obscene amount of clothes already.  Of course I love it and there are many days that I head to her room, look at her closet and just smile.  Although I'm slightly petrified to have a teen age girl in 13 years, right now I'm loving all of the summer/fall dresses, onesies and outfits that are going to make her the cutest little bean. :) This is just the start of her closet!!!

• The nesting has begun (isn't that supposed to happen in the last few weeks?)  Tom and I have been finishing projects left and right (that might have something to do with him having an Ironman in 2.5 months and knowing his weekend are O.V.E.R) but it makes me happy knowing that our house will be in tiptop shape when I have family and friends here this April. :)  We've been watching a ton of DIY and HGTV channel stuff (check out Renovation Realities if you haven't already. H.Y.S.T.E.R.I.C.A.L - a bunch of people trying to renovate things and inevitably screwing up.  Makes me happy that my hubby is handy). One of our biggest projects - redoing our bedroom.  It just needed to be freshened up a little. New paint on the walls and furniture, new curtains, new pictures, new flowers/candles and new pieces! Love how it turned out! (the bottom piece is a new one that Tom made in the last week - just a little more storage for our room)

• Tom also redid the garage - organized it, built a new workbench, hung pegboard, painted, etc.  It looks really great.  Papa Smurf is still hanging patiently from the ceiling.  I'm a little sad that he hasn't been ridden in a while (now now, no dirty jokes) and I don't foresee a lot of riding in the future. :(  I'm strictly prohibited from riding outside now because of my balance being off (among other reasons that I wouldn't do that anyway) and I know that once Abby comes, the chance of me getting out on my own is going to be nonexistent - I hate riding alone.  So eventually I'll hop back on Papa Smurf.  For now, he's a good decoration in the pristine garage!

• I've had some sad days lately - lots of emotions with the baby on the way.  Some frustration with workouts.  Some uneasiness with the new changes (why hello Braxton Hicks Contractions). Blah blah blah.  There have been tears.  It's not been pretty.  But... on days when I just can't seem to force a smile, I remember how blessed I am with the people in my life.  For instance, dinner with these ladies this week.  What a group of badass chicks to start with (all crazy fast Ironman triathletes, Kristin's doing a 50 miler next week, Kacie's training for 2 (wo)man RAAM in June, Jill's an amazing mother two adorably awesome boys who still finds time to be an endurance athlete, and Karen is considering a 25k swim - oh wait... we decided against that when we heard that you don't even get a tee shirt, right Karen?)  We laughed so hard at the restaurant, talking about leg pressing 100 babies, biking or doing Tae Bo in bib shorts (sans a sports bra), practicing biathlon in my backyard, etc.  I could have sat there all night with these ladies.  And to top it off, Karen brought me a gem of a dessert, which I ate guilt free because we all know that cupcakes as gifts don't have any calories.  Thanks ladies!

So there's my photo dump update. :)  Here's a little baby update (and stay tuned for some exciting announcements - like new ambassador opportunities that I've been given through Zensah and Sweat Pink as well as some of my favorite pregnancy workout must haves!)

Weight gained:  As of Tuesday I was up 16 pounds. 
Workouts:  I'm struggling with this a little bit - not that I'm not doing them... I am, but it's getting harder!  I'm still on the bike trainer 2-4 times a week for at least 45 minutes and up to 1:45!  I am not going crazy fast, but I'm working up a sweat.  Running is getting harder.  I find that the track at the local high school is my friend for continuous 3-4 mile runs - nice and flat.  Outside running around here is hilly and I find that I get braxton hicks contractions when I run on the hilly surfaces.  Still, I've managed multiple 4 mile runs in the last month outside on a loop around a pond by our house (which usually happens in the form of 7 minutes of running, 2.5 minutes of walking up the hill).  I've yet to get to the pool (blame Tom) but this month starts that.  And I've been walking a ton.  The hills again trigger some BH contractions and I usually am totally out of breath at some point or another so it's fairly slow going, but I love it at the same time.  But I'm moving nearly every day.  My goal is to keep going through the end of May!!!
Symptoms: I mentioned Braxton Hicks contractions.  When I went to the doctor at the 24th week, they asked if I had any.  I said no because I didn't know what they would even feel like.  Last week I started feeling my stomach getting really tight and chalked it up to the baby just moving.  But then I googled it (what did people do before google?).  Anyway, I'm fairly certain they are BH's and that's fine.  They don't hurt.  Just weird.  Otherwise, I feel fine.
Movement:  Some days more than others and then of course I cry (I told you I'm emotional), worried that something is wrong.  The other day Tom could see her kick - my whole belly moved.  It's so surreal to me still that the baby is LIVING inside of me. :)
Food Aversions: If it's food, I like it.  Nothing has really been hard to stomach.  I am finding that no matter how hard I try, I can't eat as much because maybe there just isn't enough room for it all. Hahaha
Food Cravings:  I could still eat Mexican daily, but I'm not. :) I've been loving apples with peanut butter as my go to snack still.
Sleep: I'm a sleeper.  I fear the sleep deprivation when Abigail is born.  It terrifies me actually.  For now, I'm sleeping about 8 hours a night which usually consist of two bathroom breaks, weird dreams and rolling over a lot.
Maternity clothes?: Um... yep!  I still get away with my old yoga pants (which I live in) and a few tees, but when I need to look presentable, I wear maternity clothes.  I can't wait for spring though.  Bring on the comfy skirts and tanks!
Stretch marks? Nope
Miss Anything? Not really - maybe being able to hop on my Kestrel or go for a 10 mile head clearing run, but that's about it.

That's all I've got for now! :)

My January Goal

I'm not a big resolution maker.  I know myself enough and won't stick with them.  It's just kind of how it is.  And really, I try to live every day with a healthy life in mind so resolutions dealing with health and fitness are kind of dumb.  Yes, I could be nicer to people, or more patient, etc, but I think that I should always be working on it, not just starting January 1st each year!

So when the end of the year rolled around and everyone was making their resolutions for 2013, I thought about my year ahead.  What a year it'll be!  I decided to just take it one month at a time and make a goal.  Just one goal that I could stick with. So for January, I set out with the goal of doing something active every day.  Sounds easy enough, right?  But, keep in mind that I'm now 22 weeks pregnant and let's face it, there are days when sitting my big butt on the couch and watching the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (don't judge) just sounds better.  I'm happy with my results... I had probably one of the most active months that I've had in a long time.

This past month, my bike trainer and I became friends again.  We're not BFF's or anything yet, but we're getting there.  Relationships take time.  I did have to move from my bike shorts to my hubby's a larger pair (and I found that I LOVE LOVE LOVE bib shorts when I'm pregnant... not waist band digging into my big bump as I ride).  I'm still on my tri bike, but I'm not riding aero.  The belly is too big.  And I don't have my magnet on my back wheel - I figure why frustrate myself with my pace.  I take breaks to stretch, give my whooha a rest and to stay hydrated.  This month I hit the bike trainer 12 days for an average of just over 1 hour each time.  My longest ride was only 1:20, but I'm good with that.

Running has become more of a struggle.  I'm getting bigger.  My belly is growing and things are just uncomfortable when I run.  Last week I had a huge breakdown.  Tom and I had gone for a 5 mile run and about 15 minutes into it I had to pee (super common).  Luckily we were on the greenway and right at the 1.5 mile point there is a sports complex with potties.  I stopped, did my business and thanked the front desk person who replied with "enjoy your walk".  Ugh... really?  The first 15 minutes had been a struggle for me as it was, but I was running and I didn't want to turn to walking.  I left the building, walked towards Tom and proceeded to sob.  I wasn't a walker.  I was a runner.  I wanted to run.  But that day, running was H.A.R.D.  As I calmed myself and said that I would try again, I got a searing pain in my left butt cheek that left me in tears again.  Was this the end of my running?  I proceeded to walk for an hour and call it a day.  I was defeated.  But, three days later I gave it another go and although it was slower than ever, I made it through a 45 minute run.  At this point, I haven't resorted for a run/walk program yet (except for maybe up a hill or two when I feel my heart rate spike), but I think it's coming soon.  I'm happy to just be trucking along!  I did buy a pregnancy belt to hold up the baby and it's helped my round ligament pain a lot.  I'm going to give it a lot of work this weekend hopefully when I'm in Ohio and on the treadmill (it's supposed to be a high of like 22 and this momma doesn't have enough warm weather running clothes that fit so the treadmill it is).  I digress... I ended up running 9 times this month (with a possible 10th today) and my longest run was 7.2 miles.

And the rest of the time I've been walking, which honestly wears me out more than anything around here.  It's hilly.  I've talked about that before.  When we run, we tend to hit the greenway so that it's somewhat flatter, but when I walk, I embrace the hills.  I'm usually huffing and puffing by the time I'm done.  It's a great workout and if need be, I'm going to incorporate it more as the pregnancy progresses.  It definitely isn't a little stroll in the park.  I walked 12 days this month and my longest was for over 1:20!  Tom usually comes with me (as does Charlie) and he and I have the absolute best conversations - be it about our little girl, our past, our present, our future, work, racing, training, etc.  I love those times with him so much.

So overall, I did a darn good job in January.  You can see I even doubled up some days if you could up how many workouts I did. :)  Now if only my weight wouldn't keep piling on... oye ve... that's for another post in itself.  I'm healthy.  I'm pregnant.  I get it. No need to remind me of that!!!

So for February - I'm going to keep up this goal (because you know, after doing something for 21 days, it becomes a habit and I like this habit), but I'm going to set a new goal.  Tom and I are going to go out to eat once a week.  We tend to grab a lot of convenience food when we are out and about and I'm limiting that for the next 28 days.  This should help our budget, and help me get the food I need.

How was your January?  Did you hit your goals or resolutions?

An ambassador, a marathon and an award

I recently received an email that I had been nominated for eCollegeFinder's Top Health & Fitness Blogs Award.  That's pretty cool.  Anyway, I accepted my nomination and found out yesterday that I was chosen for the award.  I'm honored to be listed with the others... it's an amazing group of bloggers, that's for sure.  For a complete list of the winners, you can visit  https://www.ecollegefinder.org/health-and-fitness-award.aspx.

So as you know, I decided to "retire" from the Rev3 racing team.  Tri's are kind of of back burner and with the babster coming, I didn't feel like I could give them what they deserved.  But, that didn't mean that I wasn't seeing out other opportunities that would fit me during AND after the pregnancy.  I was happy to be chosen as a BrooksID Ambassador for 2013.  I've always loved Brooks gear... I think everything I've touched from shoes to shirts, bottoms and accessories have been second to none so this was super exciting.  I placed my first order the other day and got this great RUN long sleeve shirt and a pair of the Brooks Pure Connect 2's. 

I've had to order large shirts to accommodate my growing belly and this one fits great and I think I'll be able to get a lot of use out of it even after the belly is gone.  And the shoes... well I haven't taken them off my feet.  They are amazing. :)  I can't wait to outfit myself post baby as I get back into fighting shape.  I think it'll help with the motivation as well.

Speaking of motivation, Brooks is partnering with the Rock'n'Roll Marathon Series and I'm excited that I was selected to run the RnR Savannah race in November.

I'll be honest in that I've not put much on my training/racing schedule for 2013.  There's just too much that's up in the air.  And while I'd ultimately love to just bounce back from the pregnancy in no time flat, that's not a total given.  RnR Savannah is in mid-November and I'm really going to use it as a goal.  For now, I'm planning on doing the full marathon.  That will be a huge accomplishment to be able to run a full marathon five months after delivering, but I think it's doable if I'm smart.  If I find that I'm struggling with things, I can readjust my goals a little.  For me, it won't be a PR race.  It'll be about me getting out there and showing that momma's can do it!  Plus I'll have extra motivation with Tom cheering for me (this will be my first alone marathon), holding our baby girl the entire way.  Savannah is an amazing city and is a special place for Tom and I.

So, do you think a marathon is doable five months after delivering?  Have you ever done one of the RnR races?

Finally a running skirt I love!

Many of you have heard my rants about running skirts - seems everyone makes them but so many companies haven't grasped that I want to wear a running skirt because I a) like to channel my inner girlie girl some days and b) can't wear regular shorts because I get thigh rubbage (sorry if that's TMI, but it's true... momma's got some legs). I've converted to only wearing compression shorts when I run.  But even those need to be long... think 5" inseam and not booty shorts. I have strong legs.  Soccer legs.  Biking legs.  And that means that when I run in normal running shorts and running skirts with tiny little compression shorts that ride up, especially when it's warm, it's not comfortable.  So, I've struggled with the perfect running skirt - one that's cute and fashionable, but also functional.  Aka long underneath short that doesn't ride up.  Is that too much to ask for?

Back in December, Running Skirts sent me one of their newest skirts from their collection, along with a sports bra and compression socks.  I had been putting off reviewing it until I could get a good warm day to wear it and get the full effect.  It fit me back when I got it and I'll be a little honest when I say that I was worried it wouldn't fit this past weekend with my growing belly.  But alas... it did!!!

So I took the skirt out of the package and immediately noticed the long under short. Score one for Running Skirts!  I noted that this was from the "athletic line".  Their Athletic Skirts are made from a really light fabric which is quick drying and are a little roomier than the Running Skirt line.  They all come with compression shorts starting at 5" inseam and two side pockets that velcro close. The waist band is wide and comfortable.  So far so good.  I put it on and even 19 weeks pregnant, the skirt fit great.  Off for a run I went.

At first the legs rode up a bit and I was worried, but that lasted about a minute and a half and after I adjusted them to where I wanted them to sit, they stayed in place for the remainder of my five mile run. 

I'm in love.  With a skirt.  That a I can run in.  Finally!

I'm super pleased.  I've washed the skirt and it came out great.  I've worn it around just as a kick around and it's super comfy.  I'm worried that as I get bigger, this one is going to seem smaller, but Running Skirts used to have a maternity line and I anxious to see what those skirts are all about if they still have them.  Hello, maternity running skirts?  I'm all over that.  I will hopefully be able to get my hands on one to review for you because we know how hard good maternity clothes, let alone good maternity running clothes are!

Yesterday I wore the compression socks around all day and then on my bike.  I love me some compression socks!  These were awesome... soft, long enough to cover my entire bottom leg, tight enough to feel the compression, and super cute with the pink heart on the side.

The sports bra is a little small.  Okay, a lot small, but that's mainly because I'm pregnant.  It would have fit me 20 weeks ago.  I'm going to hold onto it and wear it when I'm back down to a normal human size chest.

Overall, I'm loving the Running Skirt line.  I finally found a skirt that I love.  They have a ton of cute colors and styles.  And their customer service is awesome (if you get a skirt and aren't 100% satisfied, they will refund you or exchange it for 30 days!)  Oh... and they are offering my readers 15% off at their website by using the code "sharethelove13".  Trust me, you will be happy in this skirt and these socks.  Really, really happy. :)  Thank you Running Skirts - you have a lifelong fan!

Oh... and because I'm pregnant - here's a little teeny tiny baby update.

• How far along? 20 weeks, 1 day
• Total weight gain: Just about 10 pounds total (I think I'm up exactly 10 pounds according to the doctor's scale)! :)
• Maternity clothes? Yes.  They are glorious. :)  I'm still wearing some of my own stuff though.  And luckily I work from home and the office attire is yoga pants and tee shirts.  Again, I'm hoping to try out one of those glorious maternity Running Skirts!
• Stretch marks? Nope.  I slather myself in cocoa-butter every chance I get.  I know that hasn't been proven to stop stretch marks, but it can't hurt. 
• Sleep:  Sleep is getting a little difficult.  Part of it has to do with Charlie who, God love her, is a cuddler.  And by cuddler I mean she's a "I-have-to-be-touching-you-at-all-times-and-preferable-in-the-smallest-crevice-I-can-find" kind of way.  And she doesn't do it with Tom.  So he's sprawled and I'm in the shape of a pretzel.  Also, I have heard that around this time I shouldn't be sleeping on my back and I'm naturally a back sleeper.  So I go to sleep on my side, wake up freaked out that I'm on my back and go to my side.  This cycle repeats often throughout the night.
• Best moment this week: At my 20 week appointment this week, seeing our little girl moving like crazy.  I haven't felt her move yet so this was pretty awesome.
• Miss Anything? Someone asked me that this weekend and really, I don't.  I wasn't much of a drinker so I don't miss the alcohol.  And really, that's all that I absolutely gave up.
• Movement:  No.  Which is bothersome to me some days and I'm totally fine with it others. I have felt some bubbling feelings a time or two and I'm *thinking* that might be her moving, but I don't know.
• Food cravings:  I'm not really craving anything, but I can't get enough of a snack consisting of an apple, 2% cheddar cheese and some pretzels.  Seriously a great combo.
• Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope... am I jinxing myself or what?
• Gender: Girl... thankfully they confirmed that today or else we would have been returning a lot of girl stuff and repainting some walls!
• Labor Signs: Nope
• Symptoms: Um, I feel like a hippo.  I have a giant belly.  I have gone up two bra sizes.  I eat anything that's not nailed to the table.  Are those symptoms enough?
• Belly Button in or out? It's in, but I can tell it's changing and that makes me laugh.
• Wedding rings on or off?  On... no swelling yet.
• Happy or Moody most of the time: I feel like I'm happy, but I guess the person to answer this would be Tom.  If I get snappy with him, I usually cry and apologize because he's been so amazing to me that I feel bad.
• Looking forward to: Hanging her name on the wall above her crib now that we know for sure that she is a she.

Running for two

I've always found running to be a stress reliever, even on the days when I don't want to get out there.  And there are a lot of those, but I always tell myself to put on my big girl panties and take that first step.  If it's miserable, I'll turn around and go home.  I never do.  Running is a way of clearing my mind.  I take in the sights (like the 5 deer we saw today).  I take in the sounds (there are many babbling brooks that we pass on our daily runs).  I think about how blessed my life is (I live in an amazing home, with my best friend. I have a supportive family and the best friends a girl could ask for.  We have jobs, we have love.)

These days I'm not fluid when I run.  Tom often smiles at the top of the hills (he's always there about a minute before me) and tells me that I look like a steam engine, just chugging away.  I used to get mad about things like that.  But not these days.  I do look like a steam engine.  Or a hippo.  I'm slow, and methodical.  I'm not a smooth runner.  I am working.  At a slow pace.  And I love every step of it.

I saw this picture on line today (Run The Edge posted it on facebook) and it totally made me smile for so many reason.

These days I'm running for so much more than just myself.  Yes, it still keeps me sane and there is no better feeling than that of finishing a run.  But now I am running for my baby girl AND me. (Yes, you caught that right... it's a girl!)  There are two of us chugging up those hills.  Two hearts getting stronger.  And what better gift can I give us both than the gift of good health - for me through the pregnancy and for her as she starts her life.

There are so many benefits to running for two:

• Various problems related to pregnancy such as nausea, fatigue and constipation can be reduced by running while pregnant. 
• The expectant mothers who have a habit of running during pregnancy may not experience the problem of excessive weight gain. They also have a better posture.
• Running also helps in reducing and preventing gestational diabetes and in lowering back pain. 
• Expecting mothers who follow fitness regime during pregnancy have less swelling of extremities.
• Delivery complications and labor pain as well as how long delivery takes can be reduced to a great extent by running during pregnancy. It also reduces the chances of c-section.
• Pregnancy running not only makes the expecting mothers feel good, but it also leads to increased flow of energy.  It's also been shown to reduce postpartum depression.
• Pregnancy running helps in reducing baby fat of the unborn child without affecting the normal body weight.
• Pregnancy fitness also leads to better blood circulation and placental efficiency.
• Running is one of the best cardio exercises that increases blood circulation and thus supplies oxygen and necessary nutrients to the fetus. Better blood flow = better skin!
• Continued exercise during pregnancy helps mom's get back into pre-pregnancy shape quicker.

I'll keep running for two as long as I can.  And when she's here, we'll run together.  It's just how life goes.