Going for a run for the first time after childbirth had sent me into a whirlwind of emotions. I was nervous, anxious, frightened and excited. After all, I had always loved running and working out, but had ‘taken it easy’ during my pregnancy. The chance of a miscarriage at week 13 (of being pregnant) was enough to encourage that decision. I switched out lifting weights and intense cardio routines for walking and hiking. I kept my body healthy, gained the proper amount of pregnancy weight and was blessed with a 6 hour labour for our first baby!

Now that our little angel had arrived into the world, it was time to return to my intense exercise ways; however, running had not happened for a very long time! Almost 9 months of no running! On top of that, after being blessed with our baby girl through a natural birth (and stitches), recovery time was necessary. So after 6 weeks of recovery, I went out on my first run! I was excited, nervous and worried all at one time. Thoughts like “What would it feel like? Would I have the energy? Was it too soon to start exercising post-birth? ” were racing through my mind. Nevertheless, after putting one foot infront of the other,  surrounded by nature, those thoughts started to melt away. I felt refreshed, invigorated and …sore! My legs started to feel like lead!

(Now mind you, I was running with our little angel in her jogging stroller. Great invention! It handles corners well and easy to use on trails, but damn, if it’s not like doing a sled push for 30mins straight).

I finished our first run together, sore legs and all, and I couldn’t have felt prouder!  There was no better motivation than having our baby girl staring at me the whole way. It reminded me of my purpose for exercising: to encourage a healthy lifestyle to our daughter as well as stay in shape so I could play and chase her around when she gets older.

So if you’re nervous about going on your first fitness endeavour post-birth, whether it be running or cycling or Zumba (my hips don’t move like that😀), know that it’s normal & remember why you’re taking that step.

You’re awesome for continuing to put one foot infront of the other!

To health, fitness and happiness!