FAQ #1

I had my baby 8 weeks ago, I feel great, when can I start running again? 

 

Running is a great exercise because it is accessible and free. It is also high impact and high intensity so we need a solid base before easing into running.

What I like to see before a new mom begins easing back into a walk-run program

1. Infant feeding is established
2. Mom is getting enough rest that she can enjoy running
3. Mom is pain and injury free
4. Mom has an assessment by a women’s health physiotherapist who will assess mom’s:

• Alignment
• Stability of joints
• Rectus abdominal muscles (checking for diastasis recti)
• Pelvic floor muscles
• Ability to engage deep core muscles

The women's health physio can then make recommendations about if, when and how to ease into a walk-run program.

It may seem like a pain to make an appointment and go see a physio but I often see new moms who feel great, don’t have DR, feel good about their pelvic floor….go back to running but then end up with injuries due to misalignment and instabilities….or pelvic floor issues they didn’t know that they had.

Invest in yourself and honour your amazing body. Here are some women's health physiotherapy clinics you might consider in Vancouver BC.  If you live elsewhere, talk to your doctor or midwife about a referral.

Dayan Physio, Envision Physiotherapy and Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic

Safety note: It is recommended that baby is strong enough to support a helmet before running with baby in a stroller, and that the stroller is intended for running.