How the heck am I going to live w/out running + Coke during a RACE + our Sunday happenings!

Sunday selfie after church this week because before church there were some tears (from me and Brooke… being 5 is rough and so is being pregnant;)

Church snack… fruit in any variation is a favorite of mine right now!

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After church Brooke told us that she is positive that she is taller than Beretta… ALMOST;)

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Life:

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The weather was perfect outside so we made sure to get in a walk/bike ride yesterday afternoon too.  Brooke rings her bell on her bike 90% of the ride.

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She is a big fan of animals.

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For dinner we went over to my sister’s house for some Navajo tacos!  She fried up a bunch of scones—>  she gets dough at Sam’s Club at the food court and cuts that up and fries it!

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From there you top it with chili, cheese, lettuce, green onions, tomatoes and salsa!

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My mom brought the cupcakes!

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He is really into snuggling right now which I’m not mad about.

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And Brooke is practicing her big sister skills!

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She was also pretty excited about the fact that she could fit into the Bumbo… it’s been a few years since she used one.

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I saw on IG the other day my friend talking about drinking some Coke at mile 24 of her last marathon and I wanted to chat about that for a while.

If you can recall… diet coke and I had a close relationship there for a while but I haven’t had it in who knows how long (all soda sounds awful to me during this pregnancy?!?)!

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I don’t see Coke being passed out at a lot of marathons but it is definitely there at the St. George Marathon and a few others that I have seen!  When you think about soda, you probably don’t think of it as a sports drink but there are a lot of people out there that do drink it during a marathon or triathlon!  So why?

This article explains the why’s really well if you want to check it out!  The main answer—>  the caffeine.  PS A lot of athletes will take it flat too when they drink it during a race!  Some athletes also mix it with gatorade etc too (which the article recommended to do if you want to use Coke during a race).  Also, they are talking about Coke (because there are carbohydrates) not Diet Coke.

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I have definitely taken caffeine before a race a few times (and loved the benefits) but never really thought much about taking it during a race!  Maybe it’s something I’ll be thinking about trying out when marathon training comes around again for me!

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Yesterday, Becca asked a really great question and it is one I would love your help on because I’m not exactly sure how I’m going to do this but I do know my motivation behind doing this:

“I think it’s so great that you’re planning to take a full 6 weeks off from running after giving birth.  Your body will surely thank you.  I’m curious how you are planning to mentally cope with not running?  I know it is always hard for us runners to take any break, let alone 6 weeks off.  And I’m not sure you’ve ever taken that much time off.   How do you plan to make sure you go the full 6 weeks without going crazy??

Becca is right, the only time I have taken 6 weeks off from running since I started running marathons in 2010 was for different injuries.  I’ve never just taken off that much time because of any other reason and even during those times of injury, I still hit up the pool to pool run or made it to teach my spin classes or took yoga or something to get in some endorphins.  So how in the world am I going to go 6 weeks without running after the baby comes?

I talk about it in this post about the WHY I am going to take time off but let’s go a little deeper into the whole thing.

If you have read my blog for any amount of time, you know that I love running.  I’m passionate about it.  I’ve had this dang ‘sub 3’ marathon goal on my radar for 7 years now and I’ll continue to have it until I hit that goal;).  It’s not that I necessary love how every single run feels during the run.. especially those first few miles (some days just feel awful and that is normal for everyone).  I love running for all of the other stuff that keeps me coming back for more.  The confidence, the goals, the stress relief, the friendships, the sweat, the endorphins, the melting away of any anxiety I am struggling with, the routine, the structure and it is a big part of who I am.  It does something for me that I love and I know you know what I mean if you are a runner too.

It is definitely going to be hard for me mentally to take a break from running.  I 100% agree with that.  I love it and it has been a part of my life for a very long time now.  But the hard stuff is what makes us the best runners right?  And for me, my body and my training… if I am thinking long term, taking time off from running will be the best thing possible for me.  First, I do not want to experience the pain that I did last time after having Brooke.  I had some pain in my pubic bone area that I never want to experience again.  It lasted for a while after having Brooke too… for the first mile of every run, I felt a good amount of pain.  I am pretty sure that was from jumping into running again quickly after delivering.  I just didn’t give my body time to recover and I paid for it for years afterwards.

I’ve wanted another baby for a very long time (yes, I was baby hungry again when Brooke was just a few months old;) and I really want to cherish this time in the newborn stage.  I don’t want to be trying to figure out breastfeeding, our baby’s needs/what makes her happy/how the heck to sleep, and training for a race in the beginning.  I want to focus on figuring out (*attempting to*) this baby stuff again before adding in another component… training.  Mentally, I am excited to just take it all one step at a time this time rather than trying to jump back into normal life again right after having her.

In summary—> it’s going to be hard mentally but the hard stuff is worth it.  I don’t really know where I will be at mentally but I’ve got a killer support team (Andrew helps me to be as smart as possible about this stuff) and I’ll have a newborn ready for me to snuggle all day.  Taking six weeks off from running is not a very big price tag to be able to start training again soon in February with a healthy body that is ready to run again.  I’ll cope without running by going on walks with the family, sleeping, feeling a whole lot of gratitude to be able to do this again, enjoying the holidays and remembering that running isn’t my entire identity.  Running is just a small part that makes me happy and it will always be there for me when I’m ready to come back to it!  Oh, and remember that I am still a runner, even if I’m not running for a little bit.

To be honest, I’m most nervous about what I will blog about during those 6 weeks (other than 4 million pictures of the kids;) ha but I always come up with something random to fill you in on.  And I’m sure I’ll keep you updated with how I am dealing mentally without running along the way too!

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In case you missed out last week!  The three most popular posts were:

**Important facts to tell you + the best race costumes ever!

**31 weeks + 26 reasons why pregnancy is JUST like the marathon:)

**Random thoughts about BLOGGING!

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Oreo

I would really like to know.. who has tried the Mystery Oreo?!  What did it taste like if you have? (Oreo is giving away $$$ if you can guess the mystery flavor)!

Have you ever had coke (or any other type of soda) during a race?  What was your experience?  Ever craved soda during a race?

-I can’t remember a time where I have had it… I might have once during the St. George Marathon and it was just a little bit.  BUT I have definitely craved it towards the end of a race a few times and gone straight to a gas station after the race to get one:)

Ever chosen to take a break from running?  For how long?  How did you handle that mentally?!

Favorite type of dried fruit!?!?

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78 comments

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I love dried apricots
I have had coke at mile 20 of the nyc marathon once or twice. My friend lives near the 20 mile marker and always sets up an aid station. She even had peanut M&Ms for me too.

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Hi! You mentioned that you have taken caffeine prior to a race. I’m just curious what you used? I’ve often thought about doing this as well which is why I’m asking. Thanks and have a great day!

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Hey Lynn! Yes, I have definitely been a huge fan of using caffeine before races! I tried 5 hour energy once before a 5k and that hurt but for me personally I just use a caffeine pill that I get at a place like GNC (no particular brand… just one with about 3-6mg)! I know a lot of runners swear by coffee before a race too… I just am not a coffee drinker so I’ve never tried that. I hope this helps a little bit! Test out new things during a long run first to see how it effects your body!

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Hey Lynn, FWIW I don’t like coffee and while soda is okay, I can’t fathom drinking it at 5am before a race, haha…so I actually take caffeine tablets. I use them in the morning before every long run and before races. They typically come in 200mg, but I am pretty sensitive to caffeine so I cut them into quarters and just take 50mg before a long run and 100mg before a race (assuming I am getting up more than 1.5 hours before I start to run). Hope that helps!

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I tried the mystery oreo………think the flavor is fruity pebbles (the cereal). It actually wasn’t bad, but the taste stayed in my mouth forever!

I have not had soda during a race (I gladly have one after!) and I usually cut out soda for at least 3 days before…….I don’t think the carbonation is good for my stomach prior to or during a race, but that’s just me. It definately makes me love the post race soda even more! And I crave mello yello or mountain dew, especially during hot races!

I haven’t taken a substantial break from running in a while, nothing more than a week. I think you are so smart to take some time off after baby. Your body needs to recover, and you won’t get those early weeks with baby back……..enjoy them!

I LOVE dried mango……….actually that is the only way I really like mango, ha! I used to get them from this store about 1/2 mile off campus in Rexburg, Idaho…………..no sugar added dried mango from a natural store…….the best!

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Sadly, all the races in South Africa have coke, I can’t stand it, it makes me soooo sick. The smaller races only have cake and water the bigger races have our version of gatorade (energade) and ALWAYS coke.

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That is not fun that they don’t have energade at the small races too!

I hope your week is a great one Almarie!

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Taking time off can be brutal, mentally that is! I have NY coming up in less than 3 weeks and all of a sudden dealing with runner’s knee issues! I had to cross-train all last week, but it is really bumming me out not to get those target miles each day. Can you shoot me the link to your past blogs regarding your injuries? Did you ever cross-train up to the marathon? Were you prepared? What about cortisone?

THANKS!

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Tara, I am SO beyond sorry about what you are going through right now. It breaks my heart! You are so close! I have one time taken off running completely due to injury for 5 weeks leading up to a marathon and I pool ran 5-6 times a week! I did the marathon, it was hard but I finished. I am seriously so sorry and I would go in and see a doc or PT asap to get your plan figured out! I have done a cortisone shot once in my ankle and it helped me a little but not much. Probably not something I’ll do again (but that is just me)! Here are two links that might help (the first one includes a bunch of links in it that will help too)!

https://hungryrunnergirl.com/2017/09/how-we-celebrated-injury-talk-we-did-not-need-this-a-great-tip.html
https://hungryrunnergirl.com/2014/06/how-does-pool-running-transfer-over-to-road-running-and-the-normal-random-stuff.html

Good luck and I’ll be thinking about you. Please keep me updated with how you are doing Tara!

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Thank you so much! I saw the doctor last Saturday and have a follow up this coming Friday. I am so bummed, but I just have faith and keep praying it will be okay! God wouldn’t bring me this far and let me fail at the race! Thanks for your help and advice! I’ll keep you posted! :)

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I am so glad you got in and you have another appointment this week. You’ve got this girl!

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FWIW, I trained in the same pair of shoes for 9 months last year , including 2 halves and a full (the NYCM), and needless to say I had runner’s knees. Foam rolling everyday after my run helped a lot, but your body def gets used to adjusting for that pain during the run. Don’t let that happen!!

Hopefully a new pair of shoes might be enough to do the trick. It did for me, but I didn’t get a new pair sooner because shoes are $$$ :3. One pays for it eventually though, if one doesn’t get a new pair..

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I haven’t tried that mystery Oreo, but I actually found one of the flavored Oreos that I like. Have you tried the cookie butter ones?! I’ve always loved Trader Joe’s Cookie Butter Sandwich Cookies, so I had to try these Oreos. While they aren’t as good as TJ’s (of course), they’re actually quite tasty! Also, the apple pie ones aren’t bad, either!

I’ve taken a week-long break from running before by choice simply because I was really burned out and had been putting a lot of pressure on myself. It was tough at times because running is my escape, but it was really good for me at the time and helped me to come back with a fresh perspective–and a fresh set of legs.

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I don’t drink pop ever, so during a race sounds like an awful idea for me! I stopped drinking pop about 6 years ago and I’ve tried it here and there to see if I like it… I don’t! So during a race might be really tough.
Dried pineapple and craisins are my favorites… especially if I can get them together!
In the beginning of this year, I did Insanity Max:30 for two months, and because I didn’t want to overtax my body, and I wanted to stay true to the plan itself, I didn’t run. I did end up going for walks (either outside, if it wasn’t frigid, on the treadmill, or even just wandering around my house) because I felt the need to move, but I definitely felt AMAZING when I finally ran again. The time off made me fall back in love with running but I also got stronger from different types of workouts.

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I’m probably about 20 years older than you. And yes, I’ve taken a break from running for several years now. I run, but quite slowly, mixed in with other things, and always listening very closely to my body. I do this intentionally because I don’t want to get hurt in a way that means I cannot run again. I ran pretty seriously for about 20 years and started chilling out on it a few years ago. I have done this because my mom hurt herself and cannot run anymore. She won all of our local races in her age group for about 10 years at around age 55-65 then did something and running was over. My dad, too. He doesn’t care so much but he has had 3 knee replacements likely from some mix of college football, a lifetime of skiing and a lifetime of running. My mom’s theory is that daily exercise is wonderful … and the average human body has a certain # of miles in it and when it’s done, it’s done. Sobering – but food for thought!

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Thank you so much for sharing Amy! You are a great example of listening to your body! Your poor mom and dad… that must be so hard to have to take that step back! I hope they have found new activities and passions that make them happy! I hope you are having an amazing day so far!

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I’m currently on a “break” from running. To date, I ran my marathon exactly 1 year ago. I’ve run some since then — but no races and no real training plans. Just Crossfit and a few easy runs under 10 miles.

I love banana chips and dried pineapple. They are my FAV dried fruits.

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Flat coke in an Ironman or Half-Ironman is an amazing pick me up. Just a little sip tho. There’s a half marathon I’ve run a few times that serves up Jack n’ Coke at mile 11 (along with Twinkies and other temptations.) Jack n’coke while running is never a good idea :) This weekend I just ran a trail run and they served Gingerale at an aid station. Not sure about that. Most Ironman events now serve Red Bull at the aide stations. And I’m not a fan of that.

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Thanks for sharing J.L.! Yeah, hahaha I can’t imagine jack n’coke feeling good during a race!?! Congrats on your trail race this weekend… I bet it was beautiful this time of year. Oh I definitely couldn’t do red bull (I can’t even drink that while sitting on the couch haha)! I hope you are having a great day!

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I heard the mystery Oreos taste like fruity pebbles!

Wow, I didn’t know Sam’s Club sells its dough. Navajo tacos is an excellent way to serve up that yummy goodness.

Those little chocolate chip cupcakes look like love in a bite. Mmmmm!

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I don’t know how people can keep the coke down. I know I’d for sure be sick after running with it in my stomach.

I think you might be surprised how fast the first 6 weeks after having your baby will go. Then again maybe I say that but maybe I also didn’t wait the whole 6 weeks…now I can’t remember. Just remember you can always start working out more once your body tells you that you’re ready and for some that’s faster than others, just make sure you start out with low impact. I couldn’t do jumping jacks for a while after my second without peeing my pants ha!

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I love the dried strawberry/blueberry mix at Trader Joe’s!!!!! Dried strawberries are so yummy. I always eat them out of the pack first :)

Running breaks and how to deal with them. It’s just a good time to remember that running isn’t the only aspect of life that defines you. Go to museums. Take weekend trips that might interfere with a running schedule. Eat things you couldn’t eat if you had a long run the next day (hello Mexican!!!!). I think these breaks are good b/c then when you’re forced to possibly take a break if, heaven forbid, injury pops up, you know that you WILL be okay without running. Breaks that I’VE determined/chosen are easier to deal with, too, b/c (I’m a control freak, I guess!) *I* made the decision to take the break. It always helps just knowing that I COULD go for a run if I WANTED to, you know?? You’ll do great with the break, and I think you’re smart to take it. My daughters are 8 and almost 12 now, and a pic popped up in my “On this Day” feature on Facebook from 7 years ago of the two of them at the pumpkin patch. GAH, those little faces, how I miss them so much. Cherish them when they are little b/c they DO grow so fast!!!!!

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I look back to when my son was born and remember how I didn’t run or workout not only for those first 6 weeks but basically a few years! I didn’t want to mess with my milk supply (I was in fear of the lactic acid building up in there and making him fussy) not to mention I found just being a mom at that point so tiring that actual specific exercise was so far from my brain. I stayed in shape though by raising him and stroller walking everywhere (plus building muscles carrying the infant seat lol). I know it’s not for everyone to take such a “break” but I will never regret it. Running is always there when you are ready again.

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I love dried pineapple!! It is seriously delicious, probably due to the fact it’s so sugary hehe ?

I’m actually taking a running break right now! I’m 30 weeks pregnant and I’ve been dealing with a LOT of pubic bone/pelvis pain my whole pregnancy. It honestly just hurts too bad right now. I’ve also been having lots of Braxton Hicks contractions in the last 2 months so I’m just trying to be cautious ?

I have been doing a lot of walking and hiking though! But I definitely can’t wait to run again.

I hope you have a blessed week!

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NOOOOOO I am so so sorry about the pubic bone/pelvis pain that you have experienced with this pregnancy! Not fun! What day is your due date? You are getting so close and we will all be running like normal again before we know it! Keep me updated with how you are doing and now I am craving dried pineapple! I hope your week is amazing too Amanda and I’m so excited for you!

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Thank you! I’m due December 28th! Sooo close ???? Can’t wait for all the great 2018 races we are going to get to run ??

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Such a smart thing to do! Your baby will only be a baby for a small time and allowing your body to heal is so important. Blog on the baby we would love to see pics and with siblings!

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Thank you so much Christina! I will probably share too many pics of the kids with the baby ha:) I hope you have a wonderful week and thanks for taking the time to comment!

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Hi! I wanted to let you know I am due with our first baby January 10 and am an avid runner as are you (I’ve honestly read your blog every day for the past 4 years – huge fan!!) and I haven’t been able to run since week 8 of our pregnancy (May). We had some issues right away so I took out running and any heavy type of exercise for the past 20+ weeks. It was rough – not going to lie. I run to ease my anxiety and just get some “me” time. Although it’s been rough I know it’s the best thing for baby and you kind of forget about it all and I know running will be there for me 6 weeks after baby comes. Patience has been key! You can do it.

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Congrats Sam on your pregnancy! You are getting so close! I am so sorry that you haven’t been able to run but you are 10000% right about how important it is to do the best thing for that baby of yours and before you know it, it will be the end of February and you will be running again. Thanks for the support and please keep me updated with how you are doing!
Thank you so much for reading over the years, that means the world to me.

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I love dried apricots and dried mangoes :) Yum!
It’s so great that you aren’t craving diet coke – I remember when you used to drink it everyday…I can’t handle soda because it’s too sweet and bubbly for me! Although I can eat copious amounts of ice cream and that’s not too sweet…hmmmm.
I know you will be fine taking time off running. It’s going to be so hard, but you’ve been rocking running throughout your pregnancy and you’re so blessed with a beautiful family and being able to run as much as you want! Plus you have so much time as your babies grow to run – I know you can hit that sub-3 marathon!

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Loved this post – it was perfect for a monday.
I just recently listened to an interview with Burt Yasso and he talked about how in the 70s they would drink (flat) coke and eat poptarts to fuel during a run. Blew my mind as those are not part of my regular diet, let alone my “healthy” or “energy” diet!

In regards to running/not running – I think in addition to blogging and newborn and two kids and spouse, you’ll be plenty busy – but if you find you need an outlet, I have TWO suggestions: one, come up with a HRG version of c25k. That program was a hit, but you work with and hang with kids so much, I bet you could come up with one that would be better and might be more kid-friendly. SECOND suggestion, my SIL’s kid’s school does a yearly fun run (1-mile) as the ONLY fund raiser for the school all year. Thank heavens they don’t come home every day selling wrapping paper or something. Maybe you’d make a fine race organizer for a class room fun run for a school? One thing to keep in mind is after you have a baby you might feel like you can do ANYTHING (I moved across the country, my friend started a nonprofit), so run with those thoughts and do neat things if it sounds good. After having my baby (and again, moving across the country), I found running – maybe you’ll find something new and exciting while not running.

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LOVE LOVE LOVE these ideas Sage, I can’t thank you enough! I think you are right…. after this baby there might be a whole new thing that I fall in love with and ‘run’ with too! What was the podcast, I’d love to listen to it! I want to eat pot-tarts during a run;)

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It was Man Bun Run Episode 045 with Bart Yasso. I’m not a fan of MBR, but I listened when he interviewed you and wanted to give it another go. His interview style isn’t my favorite, but Bart Yasso is SO motivational!

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I really don’t like soda except for gingerale if I am really sick. I use Tailwind Nutrition for my long runs and I like the caffeinated version. I do think a little caffeine gives you the ability to workout longer or harder.

I hav taken running breaks, some forced some voluntarily. As long as I am moving in some way I am fine. I have had some nicely toned arms during breaks. :) my friends have liked post-natal yoga or baby and me yoga to help get some gentle movement in after giving birth.

I prefer my dried fruit in things like oatmeal or yogurt. Raisins, dates, apricots, blueberries, etc. Mango is one of the few I will eat on its own.

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As a PT who specializes in women athletes, I think it is such a wonderful idea to take the full 6 weeks off from running. Often times we forget to see the fact that having a baby is an injury to our body that we have to recovery from. I have seen more harm than good come out of going back to running or crossfit or anything too early. Start with simple deep breathing where you engage your deep core muscles, focus on your hib stabilizers and even some single leg balance skills before you get back to running. :)

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THANK YOU for your comment Lauren! I might be coming to you for some of these hip stabilizing and single leg exercises. Yep, add me to the list of people that you see more harm than good with coming back to early. Excited to give my body the break it needs this time! Have a great day Lauren!

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I think he just has it before, but my dad actually drinks a coke before his marathons. It’s always done well for him. Personally, I stick to Gatorade. I did drink beer during a couple of shamrock half marathons in VA beach. It didn’t end badly though.

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I have not tried the mystery oreo flavour yet but now I’m curious. I have had coke during a race – during ultras coke saved me because it was sugar and calories when I couldn’t stomach solid food.

I took a year off from running (I still ran 1 or 2 x a week when I felt like it) but I didn’t have any structured plans any race goals. I was tired mentally and burned out from lots of racing, and I had just started a new relationship . We ended up hiking and adventuring together and after a full year off I was hungry to race again.

Favourite fruit – dried mango (my dad sometimes brings us adult kids some when he goes over seas and those ones are the best). That and dried coconut chunks.

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I took six weeks after my daughter was born before I attempted any physical activity other than walking. I thought I would want to jump back into being physical, but my body really loved the rest. Exercise was the last priority and I really soaked up newborn time, eating all the carbs and sweet stuff (hello, ravenous appetite from breastfeeding!!), and taking naps whenever possible. It is such a short time period in the long run and was nice not to feel pressure to work out!

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Thank you for sharing with me Mary!!! I am so glad you were able to take this time off too and thanks for being a good example for me:) Have a beautiful day and I can’t wait for this newborn time with the carbs and naps too;) Have an awesome week!

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Last time I took a break from Running was on September. Hamstring pain was killing me, so taking the decision of stopping wasn’t too hard. However, after a couple of weeks I stopped feeling like myself. I knew it was because of the lack of running. Having my routine back has been tough. But I rather going through that than taking many months off because I got seriously injured.

Enjoy you Monday, Janae:)

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I’ve had Coke during a race only once. I connected with another runner at mile 15 of a marathon, and after I confessed my secret ‘A’ goal was getting my first BQ, he took me under his wing. In addition to letting me draft and keeping me mentally focused with his upbeat chatter, he convinced me to try his secret weapon: flat Coke. I worried that it would affect my stomach badly, but it didn’t & I got the BQ! So…when “they” say never try anything new in a race, and never take a drink offered by a stranger, I cringe but feel grateful that there are some kind, selfless runners out there ~ha~

Love dried fruit, especially kiwi & strawberry.

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I loved hearing about the runner that helped you out to get that BQ! Seriously, runners are the best! I’m glad you took the drink from him:) Thanks for sharing Corey! I hope you have a wonderful week!

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Thanks for the explanation on Coke! I LOVE Coke but try to limit it. I never knew it was used on race courses until I had a friend participate in the Iron Man. I was curious!

I think while your off loving on the new baby that you should post on how you are coping mentally/emotionally/physically with not running. We could all benefit from hearing your point of view!

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Love that Bridgette, I will definitely share my thoughts on coping without running. Thank you so much!

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I wasn’t a runner yet when my son was born but I was an avid mountain biker, and because of stitches etc I needed more than 6 weeks before I could start biking again. My outlet was lots and lots of walks with the baby. He was also a December baby, so I had to find a way to get outside with him in the cold weather. I wore him in a front carrier and I borrowed one of my husband’s coats. I put the coat on over the carrier and the baby, and he stayed nice and toasty in there.

I really cherished those walks with him and didn’t miss more active exercise at all.

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I’ve heard of the flat coke idea being handed out at Ironman aid stations and have ready race reports from people who really needed/craved it by the time they hit the marathon portion (oh, and the chicken broth…for the sodium I think). I’ve never done it, but a DC used to be my post race reward. I always utilized Zipfizz before/after runs. My dr suggested (strongly) that I needed to kick the caffeine habit. I don’t miss the DC anymore. I do, however, miss the Zipfizz before a run (I ran last week for the first time in MONTHS)! ?‍♀️

The mental side of running is huge. I was thinking of it the other day and how running is a huge coping mechanism for me and how “stuck” I’ve felt with this extended running break. But I also realized that I’ve picked up old hobbies I hadn’t touched for a while and have found a lot of joy in that. I think our brains and bodies will steer us to things that *can* make the running breaks easier, if we’re willing to listen and adapt. It’s great that Andrew is a good support for you with this. I know my husband is really great about encouraging me to listen to my body…he’s my voice of reason sometimes when he sees me drilling myself into the ground. ?

Sorry about the Sunday tears. 5 IS hard. And pregnancy IS hard. Just remember that our body releases chemicals that help us feel better once we’ve cried, so never feel bad about a few tears. ❤️

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You are so right about those chemicals, I felt like a new person after those tears! And so did Brooke;) YES, Andrew is that voice of reason too… thank goodness for great husbands!

AHHH I used to use zipfizz before I would teach a spin class! I miss that stuff too! YAY for your first run back after months away, that makes me so happy! You are so right about picking up old hobbies again, that is the best… if there is any free time, I’ll definitely be doing that. Thanks so much for your comment Michelle!

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Just wanted to pop in and say thank you for your honesty in your comment about tears and getting a 5-year-old out the door. This happens a lot in our house too and it just feels good to know this is normal and parents all over are going through the same thing :)

I stopped running for a couple of months to focus on healing my IT band and strengthening my core/cross training. It was tough. I’d look at people running outside with envy, BUT it does make you appreciate it so much more when you return. Good for you for taking time to bond with your baby and heal your body. You won’t regret it! I can’t wait to meet your little one through the blog!

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You’re seriously one tough cookie. As many times as you’ve impressed me with your athletic ability, encouraging words, attention to detail, or your incredible relationship journey, I am certain that you will be fine through your running vacay. I can absolutely see how you’re nervous; but focusing on all of those positives that you’ve listed (I’m sure you have even more inside your noggin!) will make a world of difference!<3

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My doctor gave me the okay to get back to exercise at 4 weeks post partum after my first three children. I would dabble in jogs, but took it easy getting into hard core running/exercise again. Frankly, things take so long with the addition of a newborn, that I needed the extra hours in the day just to maintain some semblance of normalcy for the rest of my family. Also, when you have a breastfeeding infant that doesn’t take a bottle (and eats every 90 min/2 hours) there isn’t much time to do hard workouts. I naturally only had 20-30 minutes to “work out” and that helped me ease into it. I assume it will be the same with #4 next month!

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I’ve never had Coke during a race but my coach often tells us to enjoy one after a really long run. Sadly, mystery Oreos aren’t sold in Canada so no taste test for me ?. The longest I’ve gone without running is a few weeks and that was injury related. So brutal! I felt like a piece of me was missing but you will have a beautiful new bundle to enjoy ?.

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I took 6 weeks off from running with all three of my kiddos. When running keeps you sane and feeling strong 6 weeks is a long time not to run. I just had to keep reminding myself that the full 6 week break was the best thing long term for my body and my babies. You can do serious damage to your body by not allowing it to fully heal after pregnancy and birth. Also your baby needs you more than you need to run. Your milk supply, rest and nutrition should be what you are focusing on so that your body can provide everything your baby needs in her first 6 weeks of life. She should be your priority not your running. All of this is easy to say yet hard to do. But if you have a mindset and plan to deal with taking a 6 week break you can do it. You are a strong woman and I know you want what is best for your family long term. Best to you !

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I think the first 6 weeks are going to fly by for you. I’ll be praying for a sunny warm winter in Utah so you guys can get out for lots of walks during the day ;) And after a few weeks, you may be able to do some yoga and pilates, which can lay a great base for a strong running comeback. I think it’s really good for our bodies to have a break from running every once in a while and you’ll have the best little excuse!

And I’ve been loving dried tart cherries lately!

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I just started my second round of Whole30 so I went to TJ’s and got dried mango and dried banana. I LOVE the mango, the banana… not so much! I’ve also had their dried pineapple and apples which are okay. Mango is by far the best!

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I like the way your mom does cupcakes – chocolate chips on top of chocolate frosting.

My favorite kind of dried fruit is definitely cranberries. They never last long when I have them in the house.

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I’m personally looking forward to lots of sweet newborn pics!!

I’m super curious about this Oreo as well!

There was a table handing out Red Bull at the last marathon I ran. I have soo many tummy issues, especially while running, that a carbonated drink sounds awful!

When I first started running I took a few breaks after my races, just so my body/mind could have a rest. I just made sure to fill my time with other stuff (strength training). This is also coming from the girl who’s on day 212 of a run streak ;)

I love dried plantains and mango!

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I think that your will have no problem staring at and snuggling that newborn.
You might have days you crave a run……..but mentally , you’ll be money!!

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Janae, just curious, have you ever tried taking gels or shot blocs with caffeine in them during a run/race? That’s probably the most common way to do it. I personally LOVE Gu’s salted watermelon flavor (20mg caffeine) – tastes like Jolly Ranchers. They make a shot bloc version too! FYI if you do decide to try this, there is a huge variation between how much caffeine is put into each type of gel, so be sure to check the label. It seems to vary from 20mg (what I use, since for marathons I like to spread out my dosing and am pretty sensitive to it anyway) up to 100mg (!).

As for Coke, in my experience it seems to be a ultra/long course tri thing more than a road running thing. I have had it during Ironman Arizona, at the end of the run when I was sooo tired of gels and gatorade, and during a 100K trail relay where I was only pretending to be an ultrarunner (there were four of us on the team – my longest solo effort is the marathon, haha). Didn’t upset my stomach either time.

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Taking an extended break from running would be hard but it’s for such a precious reason. Those 6 weeks will end up flying by (but hopefully not too fast, so you can soak in all the newborn goodness!)

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During the marathon portion of IM I started to drink Pepsi around mile 20ish. Once you start though you kind of are committed to continuing it. It was amazing and got me through-although I felt like I was at a SuperBowl party because I’d grab a swig of Pepsi and a handful of salted pretzels. It was so good and really helped. It was my first marathon ever, too! (I did a negative split on that marathon. maybe it was the Pepsi!! haha)

Right now, because you are running quite a bit, 6 weeks probably sounds like a long time. But, as parents, what’s the first thing we say about kids? *They grow so fast! Where does the time go?!* So 6 weeks may not end up feeling as long as it sounds. Sure, you’ll be chomping at the bit, but science has proven that you can get some similar endorphins just by being outside sitting, reading, laying, etc. So, I know you’ll still get fresh air and move in unavoidable ways (errands, walking with the kiddos). I do think it’s so great in the long run to take proper time off because of all the hormones that are circulating and making the ligaments stretchy and achy. I did a marathon when my 4th baby was 7.5months old and training was challenging because of my hips/back/pubic bone. PSA: don’t try this at home ;)

Love dried mango, papaya (better than fresh sometimes) and pineapple! Apricots are good to but the texture kind of creeps me out a bit…….

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As a chiropractor, I think taking time off after birth is a great idea. You have all of these crazy hormones happening (many causing laxity). That means that if you stress joints it is easier for them to shift a little bit. Running is FABULOUS, but stresses the body if a bunch of different ways. Luckily you have a spin bike (once you can sit on it ;) ) that you could soft pedal on, since the weather is sure to be exciting :)

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I’ve only seen Coke (also Mt Dew) at trail races. It was flat but tasted delicious when you’re running hard hilly trails in the heat. Or you’re at mile 29 of a 50k!

Enjoy your time off with the baby! I was always way too exhausted to even think about running for a few months!

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I always crave Coke Zero at the end of the a long run. I always have to go get a fountain soda when I am done. Maybe I can convince my husband to hand me one at mile 20 of my marathon this Sunday. I have never tired it during a run.

Enjoy your time with that sweet baby!!! As you know it goes by in a blink of an eye. :)

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I went on my first run today in well over a year and it felt so good to get back out there!! I got diagnosed with fibromyalgia several months ago and when the symptoms first appeared, I stopped running all together because I was simply scared of making it worse. It’s been a tough year not being able to do something I had only recently fallen in love with but I’ve listened to my body and waited to get things on track and know what causes my flare ups before jumping into it again. I walked to replace running and even did a 15 mile charity walk a few weeks ago, when I finished that I knew I was ready to slowly start running again but I am taking it super slow and being very careful! I think the 6 weeks will go so quickly as you’ll be soaking up that precious newborn phase! Taking time off one sport gives you plenty of time to enjoy another, I never expected to love walking but after year of only being able to do just that, I love it!

Very intrigued to hear what the mystery Oreo flavour is, don’t think they have those in England yet!

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Can your sister please write a guest post with all of her Sams Club dough recipes?!?!? lol I bought it from your reccomendation and you have since shared 50 things she has done with it!! haha I’m super impressed with her skills!

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I totally will ask her too… but seriously, she rocks it! Let me know what you end up loving with the dough! Thanks Stacy!

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Have you ever had coke (or any other type of soda) during a race? What was your experience? Ever craved soda during a race?
The only races I have had (or offered as a volunteer) soda at are trail races and ultra marathons. Ultra marathoners love their coke. :)

Ever chosen to take a break from running? For how long? How did you handle that mentally?! – I remember taking a break from running a few years back. I focused on bootcamps, weights and spin classes a lot more. After a month or two I decided one day to get back on the treadmill at the gym for a short run and running and I were suddenly reunited as one immediately. I don’t remember why I needed or took a break. I think that is the only break I have ever taken and had not been injured.

Favorite type of dried fruit!?!? MANGO. The chili mango kinda from TJ’s is my fav.

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The only time I drink Coke is during UltraMarathons. The caffeine and carbs help me power through, and the bubbles help settle my stomach. I’ve never tried it in anything less than an ultra, and wonder if the bubbles would do me more harm than good if I’m trying to run fast (definitely not trying to do that during an ultra!).
I think it’s funny that you ate those mangoes at church. I love those, but look like a dog gnawing on a rawhide when I’m eating them! They are so chewy!
I think it’s great that you’re planning 6 weeks off completely, and please don’t be afraid to take even more time if you need it. I understand that the blog is your job, and the blog is about running, but our families should always come before our jobs, right? Maybe plan on some guest writers (I’ll volunteer!!) :) or write about topics related to running that you’re not necessarily experiencing at the moment. We’ll all still be here!

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Coke during a race is THE BEST!! One time I was running a marathon and around mile 19 I was just spent. This family was having a huge party, cheering for the marathon and handing stuff out. I spotted the guy hand another runner a Coke and was SO EXCITED because I love Coke and really needed a boost. But when I got there he told me he had just gave his last Coke to the runner before me. I must have looked like I was going to start bawling or pass out or both haha because he told me to wait there and ran all the way into his house and got me a Coke! It was the best thing I have ever tasted in my entire life! It 100% hit the spot! I recommend Coke to everyone! A few years later I did a half Ironman and they had Coke at every water stop on the run!! I was kind of surprised by that but I sure loved it!

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I’m reading this at 1 am as I’m up feeding my 6 day old baby girl, and I’m so happy to read your thoughts on taking time off. I’ve felt amazing since giving birth and thought maybe I should head back to the gym (crossfit) earlier than planned. But the logical part of me knows that’s not smart, for me or for the baby. It’s good to know I’m not alone in wanting to feel like myself again and get a good workout in! But baby and my recovery are more important. Good luck on the end of your pregnancy!

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Wow!
You are an amazing man. I love to spend my life like this.
One day I will fulfill all of my desires and all of my dreams will come true.
Thank you for sharing this article with us. Its a source of inspiration for all of us.

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Good morning Janae!!!
So, I jumped into running after about two weeks with both kids (one 8, one 5), but the experiences were totally different:
With my now 8-year-old, I was thinking about baby weight, training, “getting back”, all that ridiculousness, and it affected every aspect of motherhood, looking back. My milk took a hit, I was tired, I was slow which meant I didn’t feel great about myself, you name it!
So with my second, I said I would take as much time as I needed. I didn’t THINK about running. And when she was about two weeks old, my body felt AWESOME so I ran a mile or two. And then several days later, I ran about that far again. The difference is that I was running, super slow and super short, because my body felt good and my brain wanted a hit of running. No guilt, no body issues. And the runs were so short (for weeks and weeks), I didn’t have to worry about breastfeeding. I’d feed the baby and think, now would be a good time. Then I’d be back in twenty minutes!
So, just my two cents. Run, don’t run- make sure it’s for the right reason and you’ll be okay.

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Fave dried fruit: apples and mango! No on the coke, although I could see how flat coke would be nice during a race :) I had to take a 3 month break from all exercise this summer (doctor suspected exercise associated amenorrhea — turned out that that isn’t it but that’s a different story). While it was definitely hard I tried to focus on all the benefits as well (like you’re already doing!). It’s what’s best for your body, but there are also other “benefits” like having more time to do something else (I used the “extra time” to take up photography again, went for longer walks with the dog, read more, finally finished my photobook from our holiday etc.). Also my running friend was super supportive and instead of going on our run on Wednesday morning (what we’ve been doing for almost 3 years now!) we still met up but went for a walk and grabbed a coffee instead! I’m sure you’ll be absolutely fine (and extra motivated to run again after the 6 weeks) and if you’re a bit down just mention it in one of your posts and we’ll all lift you up again!!!

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It has now been 4 months since my last run and I will definitely not be running for the next 4 as well. I didn’t plan it, it just happened. Physically I can handle this, I don’t really miss it that much since I’ve started with other exercise. But mentally it’s hard, I’m not gonna lie. I plan things when running, I process my thoughts, I let my mind wander, I reset all while running. I haven’t yet found something that would give me all that so I’m sorry, I don’t have any tips for you on this front. I can tell you however that what helps me the most is the thought of me going back to it at some point. I just picture myself sometime in the spring, with the sun shining proudly, on my favourite route and I say to myself “That’s ok, I can wait, it is going to be wonderful.”

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here in California when ever you do a trail race, COKE is always an option at every aid station and I love it. while training for my marathon coming up in 3 days my husband would always meet me through my run and carry a coke for. I LOVE IT. it cold,
is delicious, and the caffeine gives me the boost I need towards the end.

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Don’t worry about what your going to blog about for those six weeks, even if you never wrote about running ever again I would still read your blog everyday!! I think a lot of people would agree with me :) I just love it that much!!

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