8 miles!

What a nice, relaxing weekend we had with no plans!  I was excited to do an 8 mile run on Sunday, especially now that it's getting cooler outside.  We slept in a little (someone had a little too much to drink Saturday night!) and the late start meant we would finish in high 80 degree temps.  Like usual, Matt starts out at my pace (slow!) and then goes ahead and does some fast intervals.  That way, we both get in a great workout! 

I know there are some people that are skeptical about running being safe for pregnancy.  Trust me, I did lots of research and talked to my doctor.  Benefits include controlled weight gain, better muscle strength, better sleep, better mood, and faster recovery from labor.  The general consensus is to listen to your body and don't push it.  I know 8 miles may seem like a lot to some, but you have to keep in mind that before pregnancy I was doing 8 miles several days a week and then 12+ miles on the weekend.  It's all relative. 

Paula Radcliffe, the marathon world record holder pictured below, was featured in a great article in Runner's World about her experience running while pregnant.  I won't go into too much detail, but you can check out the article here.

 

Today is Columbus Day so I have the day off, and started the morning with a nice 3 mile run and then a 4 mile walk with my friend Kourtney and baby Cooper.  Happy Monday!