running again after a break

[eli]

Hi everyone,

I'm a long time lurker (although I posted a few times on the nest yrs ago) and for some reason feel shy about posting! You all inspire me so much!

I ran my first half marathon back in 2010. I'm not naturally athletic and was super slow but I loved it! Now I have a 19 month old son and haven't run since I was 4 months pregnant. I want to get back into running again. I'm really out of shape. Skinny fat 5'1 95 pounds. I'm sort of concerned about getting injured which is probably ridiculous since I run so slow anyway! Should I try to get into better shape before I start running? Maybe do some pilates (my core is non existent) and strength training first? Or is it ok to just start running again?

I'm thinking it would be a good idea to get fitted for shoes again since it's been so long? Also how do you guys do stroller runs? Doesn't it mess up your form? Granted I'm so short it's not like I hunch over to hold on!

Thanks so much!

[Susie]

It's ok to just start running, but do it with a program that will help you increase gradually. Couch 2 5k is the usually-recommended program around here. You can do cross training to vary things some.

Yes, I would get fitted again before starting.

Sorry, no stroller advice.

[Brit]

I will chime in with stroller advice. Make sure you have an actual jogging stroller and that the front wheel is locked in place (if it has a swivel option). If there is a way to adjust the alignment of your front wheel, make sure that you take the time to do it, this will make pushing the stroller a thousand times easier. There are many techniques for pushing the stroller, I have a few favorites. On flat-ish ground, I usually alternate hands, so push with one hand while pumping the other in a normal running motion. When I have to go up inclines, I use the widest grip possible so that I can push with my chest muscles and my full body more than just my arms. When it comes to stroller running, my arms are definitely the weakest link, so I have to do everything I can to preserve arm energy!

I'm sure others will chime in with even more great ideas and their own experiences.

[breezy8407]

Hi!

I've only run with our stroller (double BOB) a few times now, but here is my advice. Try finding somewhere flat and straight to start. We have a fairly straight multi-use path near us, but when it's busy it can be tedious bobbing and weaving around people.

I tend to keep my grip wide when I have to turn or go up hills like Brit said. Use your core and your arms! My arms and shoulders are definitely the first thing to get tired.

[eli]

Thanks for the guidance, everyone! Looks like my arms and shoulders wil be getting a workout, too! Thanks, Brit (not sure how to tag you!) for explaining your form and also about the wheel alignment. I do have a jogging stoller with a front locking wheel, but have definitely not made sure it's aligned correctly. Thanks, everyone!

[kellina]

No stroller advice, but I also recommend the couch to 5k program. There's tons of free apps out there for it!

Also get fitted for new shoes, and remember to run SLOWER THAN YOU THINK YOU CAN at first!!! These were my newbie mistakes last year that causee me to get knee bursitis! 'Cause "I used to run like 10 yrs ago so I'm totally in shape, right?"

[agswife]

I stopped running around 3-4 months pregnant and restarted this past January. Some advice:
- get re-fitted for shoes (my gait changed slightly)
- start out gradually - I did C25k for a few weeks to help me get back into the swing of things
- get a good jogging stroller. My BOB has a front wheel that has the option of locking. Love it. Definitely start out on flat, straight trails.

Congratulations!

[eli]

Loved your response, kellina! It's sad that I lost my running fitness. Good reminder to go slow! I'll check out the c25k apps. Thanks for the tip!