Postpartum exercising

Before giving birth I had given postpartum exercising a lot of thought and had tried to set my mind to getting back into shape as quick as possible. I had committed to doing a 15k with a friend 6 months after my due date so I was hoping that promise would keep me motivated.

So far, I can honestly say that my exercise routine (not sure if you can really call it that), has been going pretty well. I think what has really helped me get back to it most is my love for running.  I really missed hitting the pavement in my last few months of pregnancy.  When I would see others running, I would just stare longingly waiting for the day when I could run again...lol. Brad told me I was weird and he's probably right, haha!

I started out walking on the treadmill at 2 weeks PP and that quickly turned into running and some walking.  I just couldn't seem to help myself. Plus, it felt good to run and my body reacted well to the extra exertion, so I felt good about cranking it up. I also threw in some core exercises for 5-10 minutes everyday to help get rid of all the extra jiggle in my middle....yes that made me laugh.

I have signed up for a 5k on April 6th. I'll be 8 weeks pp. I'm not looking to get a fast time out of it, just want to be able to complete it (even if I have to walk a small part).  Giving myself a goal for the short term is helping to keep me extra motivated for now.

One of the things I was not prepared for was the lack of bladder control. It's fine when I'm walking, but when I run I leak like a faucet.  It's a good thing I'm still wearing pads.  From what I've read, it should get better slowly in the next few months, but in the meantime I'm trying to step up the kegels.  Peeing while you run is not exactly a good feeling...constantly worrying if its going to start running down your leg and into your shoes, ugh!

I'd like to update again in a few months and see if I am able to continue working out once leave is over and I have to try to manage 2 jobs and a baby.  Just thinking about that makes me tired!