Health

Running has always been a significant part of my life, deeply rooted in my relationship with my sister Nicole, who inspired me to grab on challenges in the sport. From our high school days on the cross country and track teams to my pursuit of running marathons across all 50 states—a journey my father completed in 2019—I’ve been driven by a passion for running. The turning point in my journey came in 2018 when I watched Nicole navigate the Boston Marathon in difficult weather conditions, igniting a spark in me to push my limits further.

Despite having completed ten marathons, I had yet to qualify for the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Boston Marathon being the pinnacle. Witnessing the resilience of countless runners during that stormy day inspired me to take my training more seriously. With Nicole’s guidance, I trained harder, and four years later, we both crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon, tears of joy streaming down my face after such a long journey. By then, I was 32, and my husband and I were contemplating starting a family.

However, shortly after our marathon experience, I found myself in uncharted territory. I ran a marathon without knowing I was pregnant. In the final miles, I felt off, experiencing severe gastrointestinal distress. Just two weeks later, the nausea set in, leading to the revelation that I had run the marathon three weeks pregnant.

As I prepared for a local marathon later that year, I grappled with the idea of running while pregnant—a daunting prospect. Thankfully, my medical team supported my decision to run, emphasizing that I should not attempt anything new during pregnancy and should keep my efforts aligned with my pre-pregnancy fitness level. This contrasts sharply with the advice given to women in previous generations, who were often told to rest and limit physical activity. Current studies suggest that women who maintained fitness prior to pregnancy might experience smoother pregnancies, improved mental health, and quicker postpartum recovery times.

Adjusting to Pregnancy

Throughout my first trimester, I learned to listen to my body rather than adhere strictly to a training plan. Exhaustion and nausea were frequent companions, prompting me to adjust my workouts to accommodate how I felt each day. Training with Nicole, we sought a balance between performance and enjoyment, which became crucial during this period of change.

I also consulted with a registered dietitian and sports nutritionist to ensure I was meeting my nutritional needs, especially during times when my appetite waned. I adapted my eating habits to include smaller, more frequent meals, which helped maintain my energy levels throughout the day.

Marathon Experiences During Pregnancy

At 17 weeks pregnant, I participated in the local marathon. The experience was exhilarating; I felt empowered running while carrying my baby and helping others reach their goals. This race reaffirmed my preparation and commitment to my health and my baby’s well-being. Each subsequent marathon became an exercise in adjusting to my changing body. By the time I reached my third trimester, I was running simply to finish, not for time or competition.

Completing my third marathon at 33 weeks was a personal victory, done at a leisurely pace alongside my husband and dog. I remained active until my daughter was born on April 8, 2023. After her birth, I continued to run, completing several half-marathons, including the Every Woman’s Marathon in November 2024, where my daughter joined me in her stroller for part of the race.

Continuing the Journey

In January 2025, I paced another marathon, only to discover I was pregnant with my second child shortly after. This news rekindled my desire to run a race in each trimester, this time with more confidence and intention. I proved to myself that I could achieve this goal again, which included completing another marathon in my second trimester and a 24-hour bike-run-walk event in my third trimester, matching a marathon distance.

Through these experiences, I learned to embrace flexibility and grace, letting go of rigid expectations regarding my fitness. Pregnancy taught me to appreciate the journey rather than just the outcomes. I found that running while pregnant encouraged me to be present, to tune in to my body’s needs, and to adapt my goals accordingly.

Despite some skepticism from older generations regarding my choice to remain active during pregnancy, the majority of my friends and family were supportive. I focused on my health and the guidance of my medical professionals while minimizing exposure to external negativity.

running has not diminished my strength; instead, it has redefined it. I hope to inspire other women to understand that motherhood doesn’t mean sacrificing personal goals. You can carry your ambitions along with you, whether they involve marathons or everyday movement.

My second daughter, Stella, was born on October 19, 2025. As I navigate motherhood with two children, my approach to running has shifted. I often get asked when I’ll return to marathon training, but to me, it’s about stepping forward rather than bouncing back. The journey of motherhood is transformative, and I look forward to what lies ahead.

As more women share their experiences of running during pregnancy, it’s crucial to support each other and foster a community that encourages active lifestyles. If you’re considering running while pregnant, consult with your healthcare provider to find the best approach for your unique situation.

For more insights on maintaining fitness during pregnancy, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for tailored advice.