Blogging from a somewhat strange location today!

IMG_7631

I’m doing two Operation Beautiful presentations at a high school and middle school in a small town in New York state today.  Since I didn’t get to my hotel room until 12:30 AM and was up at 5:30 to make the first presentation at 8:00, I’m catching up on work – and catching a few much-needed ZZZs – from the high school athletic trainer’s office.  (Promptly after posing for this photo, I rolled over to my left side – laying flat on my back is impossibly uncomfortable these days.)

 

Today marks Week 26 – very exciting.  Only one week to go until the third trimester!

23 weeks IMG_7568

These pictures, of course, were NOT taken in upstate New York!  Instead, we snapped pictures two days ago on South Beach during our babymoon.

IMG_7576

Here’s what BabyHTP is up to this week: “The network of nerves in your baby’s ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner’s as you chat with each other. He’s inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he’s born and takes that first gulp of air. And he’s continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches from head to heel. If you’re having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.” (Source)

 

How am I feeling?  Pregnant.  Super pregnant.  Yet really good.  BabyHTP kicks and rolls and squirms (the squirms are my favorite) throughout the day, but even more so when I am very happy or very sad. I’ve noticed that my bump seems to have dropped a bit, too.  And last, but not least, I am also starting to feel like BabyHTP might be a girl.  We officially have finalized our boy name selections (we have two options) just in case, though.  We’ve known our girl name forever so there’s never been a debate.

 

So – this week, let’s talk about post-baby fitness plans.

IMG_1282  IMG_3642

If you’ve been reading a while, you know that my hobby is racing.  I’m not particularly fast.  Or fast at all, really.  It’s not about winning, of course. I just really love to participate in do triathlons and road races, compete against myself, and have fun.  I have about 46 races of varying types and distances under my belt.  Racing is really what keeps me motivated to stay fit and healthy – if I didn’t have some sort of self-imposed challenge or deadline to meet, I would be much more likely to just lay on the couch foooorever.

 

My last race was December 31 – it was a 5K.  I stopped running around that time because I started to experience groin pain that was due to my stretching ligaments.  If it was summertime, and I could do the swim legs of triathlons, I would probably be hopping in a lake right now.  But alas, it’s winter, and that means that I’m out of racing options.

 

The few times that I’ve been injured and haven’t been able to race for 3 – 4 months, I got severe racing jealousy.  You know – I would drive by runners on the sidewalk and think, “UGH! You lucky person. I WISH I WAS YOU!”  I am so overwhelmingly pleased to be pregnant that I haven’t experienced quite the same level of running jealousy, but I do have to say that I really, really miss running, training, and racing.  It’s been such a big part of who I am for such a long time. 

 

Needless to say, I am really looking forward to getting back to my favorite hobby.  Obviously, I’ve never given birth before, but from talking to other active mommas, I’ve gathered that some people are back at it two weeks after birth, while others take months to recover – it really depends on delivery.  I’m approaching delivery with a positive “everything will be just fine” mindset, so I’m hoping that I’m one of the lucky ones who don’t tear or experience other complications that prolong my healing time. 

 

Assuming all goes well, I’d like to be back to walking/running, swimming, and/or cycling in preparation for a sprint triathlon within a month or so of BabyHTP’s birth.  Not crazy-style but enough to finish feeling strong and happy.  Like I said, I realize this might not happen, I’m not pressuring myself, and racing is not the priority (baby is, of course!).  But getting back to racing is definitely one of my goals.  And I’ve even been eyeing up two races…

 

First up:  I’m going to attempt to do the Tri for Abbey Sprint Triathlon on September 22 (three months post-due date).  It’s a 500 meter swim, 14 mile bike, and 5k run.  I did this race last year and loved it – so I’m really hoping that I’ll be ready to do it again.  Heck, I’ll walk that 5K if I have to!

My next ‘goal’ race is the Take Flight Triathlon on October 7.  This is kind of my ‘back up’ triathlon in case I can’t do the Tri for Abbey.  I’ll get an extra two weeks of prep time; plus, this race is shorter.  It’s a 250 yard swim, 10 Mile bike, and 5K run.  Also, unlike Tri for Abbey, this triathlon is a pool tri, which is a lot easier in general.

Now, don’t get me wrong – I am obviously SUPER excited for life with BabyHTP.  But at the same time, I don’t want to lose the things that make me… me.  So I can’t wait to race again.  And I’ve always wanted to be the momma that crosses the finish line and scoops up her little one for a sweaty bear hug! Smile  Who knows?  Maybe someday, BabyHTP and I will even do triathlons together…

IMG_7574

Here’s Week 26 in nugget form:

 

  • Total Pounds Gained:  No official weigh-in this week, but likely hovering around 18 – 19.
  • Biggest Craving:  Sleep.  Soy lattes.  They are directly related.
  • Baby Items Gifted:  My friend Lisette gave us a cutie duck onesie with a little duck hat.  DadHTP gave us three tie-dye onesies (he’s such a hippie).
  • Baby Items Purchased:  We bought the baby University of Miami socks… too cute.
  • Workouts:  Life has been so crazy that I completely forgot to keep track.  Lots of walking, though.
  • Currently ReadingBelly Laughs by Jenny McCarthy.  It’s a good change from the heavy pregnancy-related books that I’ve been browsing.

 

Mommas – how quickly did you bounce back, fitness-wise, after birth?  Any mommas-to-be with similar race dreams? 

{ 80 comments }

 

  • Jenny March 7, 2012, 10:35 am

    Awww…you look fantastic! Weeks 26-34ish were my most favorite part of pregnancy. I looked and felt pregnant, but wasn’t terribly uncomfortable yet. Also, I’m now joining team pink for you 🙂 We had a similar situation…had 2 boy names until the end, but decided on a girl name very quickly and early. We ended up with a beautiful little girl.

    I completely understand your race envy. When I was pregnant I couldn’t wait to race again. Now, 7 months post partum, I’m really struggling with the decision of when I will race again. I’ve found that balancing breastfeeding and running is hard. My body doesn’t seem to manage that much physical stress well. I want to breastfeed (at least part-time) until a year, but I’m itching to sign up for an ultra-relay that would mean training needs to start soon.

    I’ve always loved reading your blog and I’m really enjoying your honesty about maintaining a healthy balance during pregnancy. You’re an inspiration to many, Thank you.

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat March 7, 2012, 10:37 am

    I think baby socks and shoes are the cutest! Maybe it’s just because I have enormous feet so I think all small baby feet are cute. And now for a nowhere near as random comment, I think it’s great that you’re still planning to race, which is clearly what you’re passionate about. And waiting 3 months sounds like a smart idea. That would be so cool if you and Baby HTP raced together one day! Good luck with your presentations! 🙂

  • Jess March 7, 2012, 10:45 am

    I think I have guessed what your girl name is…I am allowed to have a guess on here, or would you prefer if I didn’t? Otherwise I will wait another 14 weeks and hope it is a girl so I can see if I am right or not!!

    • Caitlin March 7, 2012, 11:44 am

      I don’t mind if it’s said it the comments section 🙂 I just don’t want to like, announce it ahead of time.

  • HTPDad March 7, 2012, 10:45 am

    tie dyes in 3 different sizes – get this kid in the groove before they realize it – next, training them to “Jump” to the Pointer Sisters!

    • Heather March 7, 2012, 11:54 am

      “get this kid in the groove before they realize it” = best baby-related comment EVER. love it.

    • Jen March 8, 2012, 12:50 am

      Hahahaha…love this! You are going to be such a fun Grandpa! 🙂

  • Christy March 7, 2012, 10:49 am

    I had the worst tear you could have and recovery was painful. But I was out walking regularly in about 10 days. And itching to go back to the gym at 6 weeks. After returning to working out regularly it didn’t take that long to get my fitness level back up. I think my diet made more of an impact on my fitness level than anything else. Since you already have a great diet and fitness base, I think you will be fine! Isn’t time passing so quickly?!

    • crystal March 7, 2012, 12:37 pm

      I second the diet thing playing a huge role. We did the Brewer diet with my first and that recovery and weight loss was a lot faster than with my second where we half assed it.

  • Britt March 7, 2012, 10:51 am

    I had a lot of fitness goals before having my son four months ago but lets just say reality bitch slapped me in the face real quick. Especially the first month or two the sweet baby will not leave your side. My sons four months old and I rarely find time to do a quick workout in the living room, I haven’t been to the gym since before he was born ! Good luck

  • Katie @ Peace Love and Oats March 7, 2012, 10:52 am

    I love that you know the baby can hear your voices now! Baby HTP can hear you speak at all these conferences! Haha. Hope you get some sleep soon!

  • Rae March 7, 2012, 10:52 am

    Where is upstate NY are you? At least its warm (for here) today-60 and sunny!

  • Sarah March 7, 2012, 10:58 am

    You look great! I had a second degree tear with my daughter, and am a very active person. The stitches really weren’t the hardest hurdle for me continuing to workout- it was time and sleep! The stitches were well healed in 3 weeks and I was walking just fine. I’m nursing my daughter and I think that’s all I did for the first month. She started out small and wanted to eat all the time! It paid off with a healthy happy six month old, but I feel like just now I am back into a fitness routine! Are you planning on nursing?

  • Lauren March 7, 2012, 11:01 am

    I had an emergency c section after induction (went fine, easy recovery) and was walking the day after I left the hospital, doctor approved. I didn’t feel comfortable running until 7 weeks pp and my first race was 5 months pp but I probably could have raced within 12 weeks. Just listen to your body and I’m sure you can complete your goals

  • Tanya March 7, 2012, 11:03 am

    No advice on getting back to active. I was very unfit during and after my 3 pregnancies.
    But it made me smile to read you saying maybe you and your baby will do triathlons together one day.
    My son trained for and ran a marathon with me a year an a half ago and it was the most wonderful experience ever.

  • Kelli March 7, 2012, 11:10 am

    I’m currently expecting, & I am really missing being as active as I’m used to. I’ve felt a bit lost so far (15 weeks along) because I like to push to my limits, & since I can’t push as hard I feel like I’m not doing as much good. I hope to run a 10K late fall, but we will see. My husband talked me out of signing up for one before I give birth, as this is our first & we really don’t know what to expect. He knows me well enough to know that I will beat myself up if I sign up & am unable to complete the race. But getting back into my usual level of fitness is a huge goal for me post partum!

  • beth March 7, 2012, 11:19 am

    running a race within a month or around a month after having a baby seems very ambitious.I understand your desire tho. most babies are not sleeping thru the night until atleast a couple of months (some start sooner) and this I found to be the most difficult in returning back to “normalcy” or even being able to find a new “normal” (you know a new normal with a baby in your life.) Sleep is detrimental to feeling yourself again and you will probably find (altho you may not) that you will desire that above all else. once that is an an adequate amount for you to function without losing it then you will know its time to resume your training. (I could be wrong but that’s what I came to after having 3 babes within 3 years and talking to other mamas.)
    Congratulations K btw! I enjoy your blog!

    🙂

  • Kellie March 7, 2012, 11:22 am

    Where in Upstate New York are you?! You came on a beautiful day here! Can’t wait to get out of work and enjoy it!

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:14 pm

      I was in Philadelphia and you were right – it was GORGEOUS!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) March 7, 2012, 11:23 am

    I can’t believe the time is going so fast…well for me anyway. Belly Laughs is a pretty fun read and so true in so many ways. Sometimes you just need to laugh at all the technical/biological stuff going on with you at this point in pregnancy. It’s been awhile for me, but I bounced back pretty quickly. You’re active, so being active afterwards will continue for you. Nursing definitely helps get your body under control too, or at least it did for me.

  • beth March 7, 2012, 11:24 am

    i apologize. i misread and thought you said you had a desire to race within a month or around a month…i’m personally lacking sleep!
    What you desire doesnt necessarily seem to ambitious. But I think our bodies let us know if we need more sleep. So just listen to your body!

  • Britt @ BalancedBritt March 7, 2012, 11:26 am

    I have gotten used to reading your blog from my reader, but today I thought I’d hop on over to the real thing and get my fix. Boy am I regretting it now! The yummy amounts of delicious looking foods on the left hand side just made my stomach rumble.

    And ps. you just keep getting cuter in your pregnancy every week! 🙂

  • Amanda March 7, 2012, 11:34 am

    With the first one, I was back to walking after 2 weeks (dr orders) and went back to the gym at that time too. Went back to normal really fast. After the second I had complications with my c section incision so I was down to just light walking for a few months (dr orders). It was really hard to get back to my routines!

  • brigitte March 7, 2012, 11:35 am

    I got pregnant in July, and because of a kidney condition was told to hold off on running until they knew how my body would respond to pregnancy. It was hard! I found myself gaining weight (well just 5 pounds of bloat really) and feeling antsy all the time. I ended up miscarrying at about 9 weeks, which was the hardest thing I’ve ever been through. And frustratingly, I’m still carrying those extra five bloat pounds, but I think it has more to do with my mindset while trying to get pregnant again than anything. I’ve found myself less motivated, though I have run four post miscarriage races and even PR’d, I think the constant thought of “maybe this month I’m pregnant again” has made it difficult for me to commit to a training program for some reason. Just in the last few weeks I’ve finally managed to get back into the groove, realizing that someday when I do get pregnant again, I’ll miss this non-pregnant time to really train hard! So instead of being sad that I’m still not pregnant, I’m trying to focus on doing things that will be less easy to do once I get pregnant. I have a feeling that once I do get pregnant I’ll probably be so nervous and thrilled that it will be difficult for me to keep running. I noticed that when I stopped running, I sort of stopped working out. I admire that you’ve been able to find different ways to stay healthy and will probably steal your workout “plan” someday. 🙂 I’ve really enjoyed reading your pregnancy fitness journey so far, and have no doubt that you will be racing again as soon as you want to be racing again, once baby comes. Having said all that, I’ve had friends who run races two months post after giving birth and friends who run races five months later–I think it all depends on whether you have time to train!

    Sorry for the long comment!

  • Kim @ girlevolving March 7, 2012, 11:44 am

    I wasn’t able to run for 6 weeks (I tried earlier and it felt like my uterus was falling out). My son is 6.5 months now and I’m currently training for a marathon again. I feel great!

  • Libby @ PracticallyPatientlyParenting March 7, 2012, 11:46 am

    I bounced back fairly quickly… although I took my time during training because I hate feeling rushed! My daughter was born in August 2010 and I felt completely comfortable (and PRed!) running The Flying Pig Half Marathon on May 1st. I think that I could have pushed myself harder and raced earlier in the year, but waiting until the weather warmed up really helped keep my spirits up!

    Can I just say that I think it’s much easier, and WAY more fun, to see your pretty, glowing mommy face while it’s naked? You go, girl.

  • Colleen March 7, 2012, 11:50 am

    I bounced back within 8 weeks after having my first son. I start slowly with walks and progressed into jogging. My recovery was faster with my second son. However, I am just now finding the time, energy and drive to get back on the fitness train – almost 3 years after my daughter was born. It definitely depends on so many factors.

  • Jamie March 7, 2012, 11:52 am

    I wasn’t a runner when I had my son 5 years ago. Honestly, I wasn’t in very good shape and gained a lot of weight during my pregnancy due to depression and two months of modified bed rest. With that being said, I started small and took him for walks about 6 weeks post-partum. We are planning to have another baby and I am hoping that I will be able to do a lot more during and after. I am much more fit now and am currently training for my first half marathon.

    Ultimately, I think you have a good attitude about it and you just have to listen to your body. It may take a while before your times compare to pre-pregnancy.

  • Nicole M. March 7, 2012, 11:55 am

    After birth, even though healing up didn’t take all of 6 weeks, I just didn’t feel like doing much until then. Just like it takes a lot of energy to make a baby, it takes a lot of energy to breastfeed and recover from childbirth. Even if you don’t tear or have a c-section, you’re internal organs are still moving back to their normal place. Your ribs and hipbones are slowly moving back into place. It might seem like all you do in the beginning is nothing, but you’ll see that time flies and when you do feel ready to get back into things, you won’t have loose hips holding you back! I’ve heard some people call the time after birth the 4th trimester and that’s really a great way to put it.

  • Kara March 7, 2012, 11:57 am

    You probably won’t get clearance to work out again until 6 weeks post birth. You need to give your body that time for your uterus to re-contract back down and if you push too hard too soon, you risk a prolapse of your uterus. Also, if you plan on nursing, then jumping back into exercise too soon can stress your fledgling milk supply.

    There really isn’t any hurry and I don’t see the point of saying “I’m going to do XX event 3 months after my due date!” when you have NO idea how things will go, but it’s HIGHLY likely that you won’t be in race shape by then.

    I raced 4 months post birth, but I only really did that because I weaned early and I had more energy as a result. It was a spur of the moment decision, not something I planned.

  • LeeAnn March 7, 2012, 11:58 am

    I just read Belly Laughs. Literally laughed out loud so many times!

  • Ashley @ The North Carolina Cowgirl March 7, 2012, 12:01 pm

    You look so cute! It took me a while to recover after I had my son. I did exercise at all while I was prego and gained a ton of weight. I went from 110 to 185 at last checkup. I had to have a c-section b/c I stopped dilating. Well come to find out, my son was 9lbs 1oz and the doctors think my due date was way off. (I begged to be induced and actually had him 2 or 3 weeks before my due date) Thank God they did induce me..could you imagine how much bigger he would have been. Luckily for me I have good genes and dropped the weight pretty fast although it has took me 7 years to get back to my pre-pregnancy size. I know if I would have exercised during pregnancy I would have been much better off and should I decide to have anymore you can bet I will! I’m sure you’ll come back fast though!! 🙂

  • Kattrina March 7, 2012, 12:12 pm

    I love Belly Laughs!! It is so funny! I am currently ready Baby Laughs, which is funny too! I am hoping to get back into running after giving birth but will have to see how I feel too. I have visions of me and baby running together too (baby in super awesome jogging stroller I have to convince someone to buy for me, of course)!!

  • Susan March 7, 2012, 12:19 pm

    Even though I had a c-section, I was so ready to work out about 4-5 weeks postpartum. I didn’t have the time though, because my husband works long hours and all of our family is in Europe. And since I feel our son is a little young to leave at the gym’s childcare at 6 months (I know people do it, but I don’t think we’re ready for this…), I have only been running 4 times. I’m registered in a 10k race next month and am completely out of shape…
    The only things that save my sanity are long daily walks (since he was born) and mom & baby yoga (since about 7 weeks), where I can bring him with me.
    I like your attitude that everything will be fine and your body will tell you when you are ready. That was my motto too! 😉

  • crystal March 7, 2012, 12:35 pm

    I started working out 3 or 4 weeks after my first b/c I was one of those insane postnatal ladies who couldn’t sit down. Bad idea on my part b/c it made my bleeding last until 8 weeks which sucked. It’s great you have a plan and you sound fairly flexible about it. Does your gym have childcare? To me that was the hardest thing about getting back into working out. I was so glad our gym had good childcare that would actually page you if they had to.

  • Jess March 7, 2012, 12:38 pm

    I’m going to try not to rain on your parade but it’s pretty unrealistic to expect to jump back into training mode a month after having a baby.

    I worked out 4-5 days/week up until 2 days before I had my daughter, had a fast 6 hr, NUCB with no tearing. For the first week, just walking around made my lady parts sore. The thought of sitting on a bike, no way. I did my first run at 5 weeks and I thought my uterus was going to fall out. It got better and by 2 months I was able to run more regularly and now I’m back up to double digit runs. But, especially those first few months, you’re tired, your body has changed and is adjusting and the needs/demands of your baby are (well should) come before your training plan.

    Just be patient and don’t let the idea of what you should be able to do after birth get your down when reality hits. It is different for everyone, but just be prepared in case it isn’t what you expected.

  • Vivian March 7, 2012, 12:49 pm

    With my first pregnancy, I ended up having to get a c-section, but was back on the bike about 2 weeks postpartum (doctor approved, of course!). I didn’t feel comfortable running until 8 weeks because of all the extra skin flopping around (I couldn’t even do jumping jacks). But I did walk at least 2-3 miles almost every day with the stroller. I’m 28 weeks with my second pregnancy and will have another c-section, so I’m hoping the recovery will be similar or better.

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing March 7, 2012, 1:06 pm

    You have such a cute baby bump!!! Preciousness!!
    And I think it’s AWESOME that you want to get back to racing!!!!
    Oh jealously.. I’ve wanted to punch runners in the face when I can’t run because of my stress fracture. I know it’s not their fault buuuuut… 🙂

  • Malorie March 7, 2012, 1:08 pm

    I think that’s a good plan as long as you won’t be too disappointed if you can’t get back to exercise right away and if you aren’t able to do the races. You seem to do a good job judging your limits and not be too hard on yourself when you can’t do something, so I think you will be fine. It’s good to have goals though and something to look forward to. I don’t really have any big post baby exercise goals. I would like to get back to walking as soon as possible after birth and walk a 5k (with the baby!)that is 7 weeks after my due date. I’ve been walking through my whole pregnancy (I’m 28 weeks now), so I don’t think that will be too hard to do as long as my hooha feels up to it 🙂

  • Kayla @ The Best Things March 7, 2012, 1:11 pm

    My personal favourite, is when someone pushing a stroller in a race passes you and kicks your ass. Fit mamas are such great inspiration for the rest of us!

  • Verna March 7, 2012, 1:23 pm

    I tore quite badly with my son after a long 30 hour labor. I felt good enough for short walks after two weeks. With my daughter I didn’t tear as badly and my labor was shorter, 24 hours. I was taking walks by the time I was 1 week post partum.

  • Angie All The Way March 7, 2012, 1:23 pm

    You are absolutely right on the “it all depends” on how the delivery goes” part. After I was all healed up etc., my doctor said something that surprised me tho. I was used to most doctors sluffing things off and giving “the ok” to get back in the physically active game sooner than you might otherwise feel is ok (confidence-wise), but when I told my doc I wanted to get back out walking and gradually running again, she warned me to be cautious and to dial it down a bit. Even though I was healing up well (eventually), she said that your joints are still affected by your pregnancy hormones for a year post pardum and it’s important to be cautious not to injure yourself. I hadn’t even thought of that.

    Unrelated to that advice (she obviously wasn’t telling me NOT to do it), it was honest and truly not until a year postpardum that I got back into running and that was solely because my baby hardly slept and hence neither did I and I just couldn’t muster it up. Once I was back to work and had some time to myself again, I started training for my first 10k during my lunch hours and it was absolutely wonderful – I couldn’t believe it, an entire HOUR all to myself! lol

  • Fuzzy March 7, 2012, 1:30 pm

    Don’t want to be Debbie Downer here, but as a mom of two, I think you should lower your post-baby race training expectations. First babies are tough, especially if you’re planning to nurse. I’ve always been fairly healthy and in shape, and I didn’t even attempt an exercise regimen until my daughter’s were several months old. Sleep deprivation is ROUGH. Am I right, other moms?

  • Lindy Katherine March 7, 2012, 1:33 pm

    You could absolutely compete in a masters swim meet! They are so much fun. I am competing in one next month and I’ll be 23 weeks: 400 IM, 200 fly, 500 free!! You could choose different events, of course….as little as a 50 yard free. Just start in the water, aim to swim rather than “race,” keep your heart rate down and have a blast trying something different! Look up your local LMSC (local masters swimming committee) thru usms.org to find what meets will be near you!

  • Lindy Katherine March 7, 2012, 1:38 pm

    Reading some of these responses….I don’t think your post partum race plans are crazy at all. Obviously you’ll just see how it goes, but I was totally raring to go a month after both of my kids were born. Good luck!!

  • Lindy Katherine March 7, 2012, 1:39 pm

    P.S. I nursed my kids too – til 15 months old.

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:14 pm

      AWESOME 🙂 Go momma

  • meagan March 7, 2012, 2:16 pm

    My only comment is…life with sleep deprivation, a crying baby and nursing is…tough. Mentally, emotionally, physically tough. It does depend on a lot of different things–your labor, your baby, the support you have–but in the end, you just can’t know until it happens. But you have that attitude, and I applaud you for it. But in the heat of the moment, please remember that taking it super easy is absolutely okay.

    One way you’ll be able to tell if you’re doing to much is by the flow of your lochia. If you’re doing too much, you’ll bleed more. That’s a sign to rest (legs up) for at least a few days.

  • Christina March 7, 2012, 2:18 pm

    I don’t think your race plans are unreasonable and it is good that you are being flexible. I had an easy, uncomplicated, natural labor with only a minor tear and completed my first sprint triathlon 8 weeks after giving birth totally on a whim. My big goal was to complete a marathon at 9 months post partum. I gave up biking and swimming to only run and ended up with quite a few minor injuries which contributed to an eventual stress fracture in my foot. I do tend to be more injury prone when only running even before the baby so I should have known better. My sports medicine doctor also felt that lack of sleep and breastfeeding (your body gives up a lot of calcium to feed the baby and my son was a big eater) weren’t allowing my body to deal with the strain of running such long distances. If I could do it over again, I would go back to running long distance much later and try to just get used to being a new Mom and listening to my body better than I did while I was obsessing over making my goal of running the marathon. You have a great attitude and I look forward to seeing your journey back to racing as a new mama!

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:13 pm

      This is an interesting comment! I will definitely remember to keep up with calcium. 🙂 THanks!

  • Amber K March 7, 2012, 2:39 pm

    Well hey traveling lady! You’re looking amazing as usual. Seriously, is there a pregnant woman who doesn’t look beautiful?

    I’m getting super anxious to finally find out the gender of BabyHTP. And the name. Oh, so many decisions and so much waiting… 🙂

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife March 7, 2012, 2:41 pm

    WOW-you are soooo busy!! Love the updates 🙂

    I think if everything goes well, your goals and tris look like a good timing for it all to come back.

    I’ve never had a baby, but I do know that if all goes well, some can be back at it in like 1.5 weeks! Everyone is VERY different, though. And I think it depends on how active a person is during pregnancy too…

  • Jen March 7, 2012, 3:06 pm

    I had a relatively easy, normal delivery, and was taking the baby for walks two days after I gave birth. It was motly walking for 5-6 weeks, then a few weeks of yoga to ease back into fitness, before I started running again. I was active throughout my pregnancy, which helped me bounce back. From talking to my friends, though, everybody is different!

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:12 pm

      Rock star!

  • Claire March 7, 2012, 3:11 pm

    After bub number three I was back runnung in less than three weeks and I couldn’t keep the grin off my face! I have experienced injury troubles when resuming running after each pregnancy though. I put it down to the ligaments being loose from the relaxin hormone – apparently it hangs around for a while. So I think it is especially important to slowly ease back in. But absolutely nothing beats heading out for a run as a break from caring for baby. No matter how tired and sleep deprived I was, I always felt a million times better after a run, no matter how short or how slow. One little factor that you have to work around is feeding – it’s best to go for a run straight after a feed when you have ’emptied’ – much more comfortable! The sweaty cuddle after a run is gold – I love it when my three are waiting at the finish line for me.

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:12 pm

      Yay 🙂 this gives me hope!

  • RhodeyGirl March 7, 2012, 3:24 pm

    Honestly, I don’t think your goals and plans are realistic at all. You are forgetting to factor in the baby part. Maybe keep this is a backburner idea, but be flexible with it. There is nothing wrong with taking some time to heal and get to know your baby before jumping right back in.

  • Katheryn March 7, 2012, 3:50 pm

    I’m currently pregnant with #3. I was super active before getting pregnant and stayed active through all of my pregnancies. However, I chose to really ease back into working out, and for me that was best. After my first I waited 6 weeks, and then started hitting the gym or the pavement in the early morning right after I nursed. With my second I waited 4 weeks and then started up. Unfortunately I started bleeding, so I took two more weeks off and then was fine again.

    It was hard waiting 6 weeks to really exercise again (I did go for walks), but then my body was ready, baby was more ready, and I was able to get back into shape quickly. Minus the 7 pounds I hung on to while I was breastfeeding, I was able to lose everything else within 4-5 months.

  • Jen March 7, 2012, 3:51 pm

    You look great! I can feel that you are craving the fitness thing…I have a feeling that you are going to come back stronger than ever!! In between baby breaks that is 🙂

    I wanted to ask a question about the Naked Face Project: do you think you’d feel differently about it if you weren’t pregnant?? I guess I was wondering if the fact that your pregnant might make it seem easier or more ‘passable’ for women to not feel the need to beautify themselves (etc.). Not to mention feeling tired and stuff might make you more “I don’t care” sort of thing.
    Just a thought!

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:05 pm

      Hmm I don’t know! I think it’s hard for me to decide. Honestly, I think it would be easier because I’m already going through so many changes!

      • Jen March 8, 2012, 9:05 pm

        That’s true…changing hormones might make you feel all sorts of different things about it – good and bad!! 🙂

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) March 7, 2012, 3:59 pm

    I am looking forward to racing again! Although right now I am WAITING for baby BBB to arrive – who is due today – but showing no signs of coming any time soon 🙁

  • Laura @ LauraLivesLife March 7, 2012, 4:13 pm

    I love your post-pregnancy plans – and I think you have the right perspective! Everyone’s body is different, and if you are ready, you’ll know it!

  • Jill March 7, 2012, 4:39 pm

    My daughter and I did a sprint triathlon 2 years ago and are going to do another one this summer. She was 10 for the first one and is now 12. I LOVE that we can share fitness together!!! There is a post and video on my blog about our race together! I hope one day you can share experience with the one you will love most!!!

  • Ashley March 7, 2012, 4:39 pm

    Now, I was incredibly sedentary before my babe was born. Well sort of. I worked in childcare so I was chasing toddlers and such, but I wasn’t specifically exercising. So I wasn’t trying to get back into any sort of racing shape. BUT my delivery was incredibly easy and I didn’t tear at all, and felt fairly recovered by the two week mark. My only real issue was keeping my blood pressure under control (I was induced because of pre-eclampsia). So I would say if your delivery goes really smoothly chances are you’ll be fine. Just keep an open mind!

  • Libby @ PracticallyPatientlyParenting March 7, 2012, 5:19 pm

    Ya know, I don’t think it’s necessarily fair to set you up fearing recovery! I’ve noticed that some comments are pointing out that BFing can further complicate recovery and postpartum training… but I really think it’s a mind over matter thing, special circumstances aside. You are a goal-oriented, can-do lady, and that’s all you need!

    I exclusively breast-fed… forever. No two pregnancies or post-partums are the same, but it wasn’t difficult for me to juggle baby time and training time. Okay, that’s a lie, it was difficult, but it’s all about finding even the smallest snippets of time to treat yourself to regular training workouts. Also, I found that BFing helped me manage my time more efficiently! There is nothing like feeling your chest slowly fill like a swelling time-bomb to keep you motivated!

    Bottom line? Listen to your body. Listen to your baby. If you can make it work, you will. If it isn’t in the cards until a little later down the line, no sweat, and your body and your family will thank you for it!

  • Angie March 7, 2012, 5:29 pm

    I had baby #4 last June (suprise!), and when I found out I was pregnant I had already signed up for 3 races. I ran/walked a half marathon at 26 weeks and did a longish sprint tri (1100/17 miles/3.5 miles) 8 weeks post-partum. The tri was tough. I had only been on my bike a few times and the course is very difficult. I walked much of the run. But I was really happy to do it, and I loved seeing my 4 kids at the finish line. I was signed up for an Olympic distance tri 2 weeks after the sprint, and i opted not to do it because of how hard the sprint was. I am ready for a full tri season this summer (half marathon first and then 3 tris), and I hope to be somewhere close to my pre-preg level of fitness now.

    I love love love my Bob Ironman stroller; I got a carseat attachment and was able to snap the baby carrier in. They do not recommend you run with it in that configuration, but my husband and I both did it carefully and felt like it was pretty safe. It is much lighter and easier to steer now that the baby is sitting in the actual seat and not the car seat carrier. It is still his favorite place to nap!

  • Heather March 7, 2012, 5:56 pm

    My son was born on June 9, 2010..summer babies rule! I did have a C-Section, so I was pretty limited for a good two weeks. I started walking after that, and got the go ahead for running at my 6 week check up. I think staying active during pregnancy helped me bounce back so to speak. It was definitely an adjustment, finding time and fitting it all in. Also managing the self talk..”I should be running XX pace.” I definitely had to get that in check. However, I took it slow and just let myself get back to my hobby. I kept reminding myself how lucky I was to be running. I actually did a 5K over Labor Day, just shy of three months post. I did my third half marathon in May of 2011, 11 months post. It is definitely possible, it might not be easy at times, but definitely possible. Good luck!

  • Patti Bevans March 7, 2012, 7:30 pm

    Where in upstate NY? That’s where I live, just curious.

    • Caitlin March 8, 2012, 5:03 pm

      I was in Philadelphia NY!

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie March 7, 2012, 8:09 pm

    I started running about four to five weeks after giving birth. I only had second degree tears so it didn’t take too long to heal. I started walking almost immediately but was surprised at how slow I had to take it at first. One day about a week after he was born I took a four mile walk and REALLY regretted it…..talk about SORE!

    But now I’m pregnant with our second and I have the urge to work out like crazy. Not so much running this time, but I want to do The 30 Day Shred, and Insanity or something. I’m craving sweaty hard fitness.

  • Presley (run pretty) March 7, 2012, 8:16 pm

    I love your updates! I hope I can get back into my normal workout schedule post baby. I had JUST really gotten excited about racing when I found out I was pregnant. That’s life, right? Haha

  • Carol @CookingForTwo March 7, 2012, 8:35 pm

    You are so motivating! It’s so nice to hear that you want to, and are planning to already, to get back to things that make you you.

  • Bree March 7, 2012, 8:39 pm

    Everyone’s experience/recovery is different. I started to workout (elliptical) at 5 weeks post partum. My lady parts protested against any sort of running for quite a while (just went on my first run a couple of weeks ago at 5 months post partum). I guess what I want to say is, go for it if you feel up to it and it makes you feel good, but if you need more time, take it and don’t feel bad about it 🙂

  • Kristen March 7, 2012, 9:56 pm

    When I first read this I thought you said you wanted to do a RACE within a month of the baby’s arrival and thought you were a raving lunatic…but trying to get back to doing something sounds reasonable (as someone who doesn’t have a baby). I guess you’ll just have to see how your body feels!

  • Jill March 7, 2012, 11:47 pm

    I bounced back pretty quick after having the wee one. It was just a couple of months and I was in better shape then when I started before pregnancy!
    I think I was so determined to go back to “normal” that it just happened. Not that weight is a huge indicator but I’m still 15 lbs less than I was before baby!!
    I started working out/running 6 weeks after.

  • jessika March 8, 2012, 11:55 am

    I know you have mentioned working a slightly opposite schedule from your husband, and just from my personal experiance, it makes it hard to jump right back in. Sure, you may have a jogging stroller, but they warn agains’t jogging for the first 6 months (ivrealized this after birth and was sooo bummed).
    My husband and i have opposite shifts, and it’s been hard to keep a regular workout scheduled, so i signed up for a local 5k to get me motivated.
    Just remember, it’s a huge life change, and it will be something like you expect, and NOTHING like you expect. So if it doesn’t go as planned, cut yourself sone slack 🙂

  • Victoria March 9, 2012, 8:53 pm

    you have motivated me to try the same fitness challenges btw – pushups and planks. thanks!

    as for tearing – I read a little nugget that I tried and it seemed to work – when you are in the pushing stage have ur husband remind you to keep your facial muscles relaxed – apparently there is some connection between your face being relaxed and ur netherregions NOT tearing. def. helped me and it is not as hard as it sounds to keep your face relaxed. =)

    • CaitlinHTP March 10, 2012, 11:15 am

      YES! I have heard this too!

  • Yifan March 12, 2012, 9:16 am

    You look beautiful! And wow, so impressed by your ambitions. Definitely inspiring!

Previous post:

Next post:

Healthy Tipping Point