This post is sponsored by Zappos. 

I have run less miles in 2018 than I have in any other single year since I started running in college. Following the guidance of my OBGYN, I took most of the third trimester off of running. And then after being cleared to run six weeks after Finn’s birth, I found that I didn’t get back to it the way that I thought I would.

(All photos in this post are Scott Broome Photography)

I have really enjoyed the postpartum running that I have done and have been surprised to find that running actually feels better than it has in years. I attribute a lot of this to the fact that I’m not working out nearly as much as I did pre-pregnancy so my body is overall more recovered.

The challenging thing about running with a baby has been finding the time, energy and motivation to do it. I often pick stroller walks over stroller runs and I’ve only run one race since having Finn.

I don’t think there is a right or wrong way to return to running after having a baby and it’s felt right for me to do less of it. That said, I’m to a point where I miss running and really can tell a difference in how I feel physically and emotionally when I make time for it. Physically, it now energizes me rather than drains me. Emotionally, it gives me that same “run therapy” feel that’s kept running my favorite way of moving for so many years.

I am so ready for 2019 and all of the fresh and new that it has to bring. I want to set some loose goals for myself around running that will get me out on the road with a little more regularity.

2019 RUNNING GOALS 

• Run 2-3 times per week. This has always been a sweet spot for me that allows me to also fit in things like strength training and yoga, which are important to me as well.
• Build a solid base back where running 8-10 miles feels doable on a regular basis.
• Stay on top of preventing injuries by focusing on dynamic stretching, strength training, yoga, massage and bodywork when needed.
• Train for a half marathon, either late spring or in the fall of 2019.
• Apply to be an ambassador for the Charlotte Marathon. I would love to partner with the Charlotte Marathon again as an ambassador.
• Host another online training group for the Charlotte Marathon and Half Marathon and try to get as many of you in Charlotte with me to run it! Go ahead and save the date for November 16, 2019! 🙂

And that’s it! I want to keep my goals simple and attainable. I don’t want to get too focused on time goals or weekly mileage counts that I aren’t sustainable. 2019 is going to be busy as I ramp work back up along with mom duties!

THE ASICS GT-2000 7

I switch out my running, walking and workout shoes very regularly and wear a variety of different brands. One shoe that I have been enjoying lately for running and walking is the new ASICS GT-2000 7. This is a shoe that offers great stability.

This model of the ASICS GT-2000 features less weight, enhanced cushioning and lighter and stronger materials. They are designed to provide support, structure and high-mileage durability.

THE ZAPPOS EXPERIENCE

I ordered these shoes through Zappos, who are my go-to resource for shoes whether they be casual, dress or athletic. I am always blown away by the selection that Zappos offers. It’s so much easier and better than the days of bouncing around to various department stores and athletic shoe stores in search of shoes for various occasions. Tell me I’m not the only one with not so fond childhood memories of this!

Zappos offers fast and free shipping and excellent customer service. They make returns a breeze with their 365 Return Policy. If you’re not happy with your purchase, you have a whole 365 days to return your unworn items.

Life has always been full with a lot of balls up in the air but it’s next level now that I have Finn! The more I can streamline and make things easier and more efficient, the better. Ordering my shoes from Zappos means I can shop when it’s convenient for me (which is usually times when the baby is in bed and traditional stores are closed) and I can very easily return anything that doesn’t work.

If you’re looking for a shoe that offers comfort and stability, check out the ASICS GT2000 7. They are a great supportive shoe! You can order them through Zappos and be out running in them just a couple of days from now.

I would LOVE to hear your goals for running in 2019! I think it would be so motivating if we all shared and were able to read each others!