My Summer Workout Routine

Now that it’s July and it’s hot, it’s definitely summer time!! I have been spending so much time updating you on my pregnancy, I haven’t been sharing my running as much. Summers are typically my favorite time of year for running (Fall comes first). I love all the summer races and the green scenery, or at least the green for the first couple months, until everything burns up.

Now that I am pregnant, the heat gets to me. I didn’t mind running in warmer temperatures, until now. I feel I have to get up soo early to beat the heat, and it’s already around 60-70 degrees.

So I have changed up my routine a little more now that I am pregnant. I used to be able to do two-a-days, but those are a thing of the past. Here’s what my summer workout routine looks like:

Running

• Light / Easy runs on Sundays & Tuesdays- currently they range from 4-5 miles.
• Longer runs & speed/hills on Mondays & Wednesdays -these range from 6-8 miles (I haven’t done much for speed the last month though)
• Long runs on Saturdays – anywhere from 10-16 miles
• Rest Days on Thursdays
• Mix it Up – I like to travel more (not far 15-30 minutes) to other areas to run. There’s great State Parks and trails to be had here in the Inland Northwest. It helps keep running fun.
• Weekly Mileage Total = 35 – 50 miles

I have an upcoming race this weekend, a 1/2 marathon. Then just a couple shorter races planned, until another 1/2 in September over our Anniversary and a 10 miler race. So my routine should stay pretty much the same, if I am able to keep my mileage up.

Strength Training / Yoga

• Sunday or Monday (or both) & Wednesdays – I do total body strength targeting the upper and lower body and the core (some exercises are modified because of my pregnancy).
• Tuesday / Thursday – I am trying to incorporate more yoga into my routine, so it helps keep me flexible and helps to alleviate some symptoms of pregnancy.
• Total Time = 1.5 – 2 hours

Strength training is so important during pregnancy. It helps strengthen the core and pelvic muscles, which will be utilized during labor. Keeping arm strength will help with carrying all the baby’s gear, the baby, and that darn carseat. It will also help keep me fit, so I can bounce back a little easier after the baby arrives.

There are days when I don’t get in my workout, because I feel exhausted or have too much pressure from the pregnancy. I have learned to listen to my body more and take it easy, especially in the heat. Waking up early to beat the heat, while staying hydrated is key!!

I will be honest and say I have hated my runs more than I ever have. I am not one of those women who enjoys running while pregnant. Maybe if there wasn’t the pressure down below, and the extra weight it wouldn’t be so bad. Still haven’t found that sweet spot.

I have found that engaging with other runners does help. Seeing others post who are pregnant and even those who aren’t is inspiring and helps me get out there, even when my legs are heavy and achy. I love looking through all the photos on Instagram and Twitter with the hash tag #RunThisYear.

I encourage you to start engaging more with fellow runners!! It’s a great boost.  Simply use the #RunThisYear hash tag yourself when on social media, and search with it to find other individuals apart of our great running community. It helps to stay motivated and inspired, believe me.

Total Yearly Mileage is 1305 miles. I usually crank the mileage up in the summer time, but not this year. Slowly making my way towards 2014 miles……

Until Next Time Be Whole & Be Fit

What’s your summer workout routine?