Run like a Mom!

Post-baby running is a funky little experience. Your body is attempting to perform according to its muscle memory (you know, at your glorious pre-baby pace), yet you don't seem to move forward as easily. As a result, those first days you may feel like a turtle. Worry not, it's only temporary! Something that really helps getting back on track: My Team in Training buddies. They've been very helpful to get my butt out of bed (5AM runs, remember?), stay motivated ('cause F*** cancer!), work on my pace, and help me drag my feet to finish my training- almost like being rescued by SeaTow.

GO TEAM! #PRMARATHON

I've found myself attempting to run steadily in the past month's training, and I've had to stick to run-walk training for now while my body adjusts to its changes. On the other hand, cool [mom] training accessories have been added to my arsenal.
Here's a quick review:

Training Bra:

Pre-baby this was never an issue. Post-baby, it not only became an issue, but I also got hurt. Finding the right support for your girls is just as important as finding the right pair of running shoes. Imagine trying to run with a pair of water balloons strapped to your chest. Discomfort is an understatement! I ended up choosing Under Armour' Women's Armour Bra after tryingon several brands. I can't say that this is *the* absolute best, but it is the best selection for me. Do yourself a favor and try on several bras before buying one. Note for nursing mammas: Pump/feed right before you head out to run and use a comfortable pad inside if your run is lengthy. I highly recommend Bamboobies, but there are other great brands out there.

Compression gear: 
Pre-baby any compression gear worn was focused on improving your athletic performance, as well as your recovery. I still use my original hot pink compression socks for runs, however, a new perk has been added: helping with my circulation. After I gave birth my circulatory system went a bit crazy, so the extra help during long runs is nice.
Talking to other running moms, I've been told that using compression running pants might also serve as an abdominal compression band. I haven't tried that yet, but if anyone out there has feel free to share your feedback!

Running Shoes:

Pre-baby I had a specific type of running shoe that I'd wear. Post-baby I had to go through the running shoe selection process all over again. My feet changed a bit, my joints feel different (more stiff, less flexible) and although my step remained neutral, my balance wasn't the same. I recently got the Nike Zoom Pegasus, and so far they've worked out well. I'll update closer to the PR Marathon.

Running Stroller:
This was possibly the hardest selection made. There's a great selection of strollers out there to choose from, so I recommend you do your research. Just like the bra and shoes, picking one that works best for you is important. My months-long research narrowed down to three options: The Jane, the B.O.B., and the Thule. The Jane was eliminated because I personally felt that the seat was too wobbly. Then the B.O.B. became the first runner up (no pun intended) because the Thule is slightly lighter. Pushing a running stroller with the added weight of a tiny butterball makes a big difference in your training. Pushing those suckers is hard work! The Thule Urban Glide actually feels like you're gliding through the road. The tires are air filled, so I recommend getting a pump just in case. (I found a small one that's very convenient to keep in the stroller)

An updated review will be published later. I'll see y'all around!

They see me rollin'...