Return To RUNNING & Sports Post-Partum

Returning to activity after having a baby

Running continues to be a popular form of activity for women while pregnant, with many wanting to return to or take up the activity after childbirth

However, healing timescales should be considered when returning to running as tissue healing can take up to 4-6 months

According to an infographic provided by the British Journal of Sports Medicine, running too soon can increase pelvic floor dysfunctions (urinary incontinence, abdominal weakness, lumbopelvic pain, etc.,).

These potential injuries and long-term consequences can create barriers to women returning or initiating running post-partum

It is recommended to gradually build up the intensity of physical activity for a minimum of 3 months before returning to running, keeping in mind there are no signs or symptoms of pelvic floor or abdominal wall dysfunctions

Below is the infographic that is a helpful guide to support women returning to running after childbirth 

Information source :

British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) from May 2020, the Guidelines for Returning to Sport Postnatally and Returning to Running