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Do your kids come?

posted about 1 year ago | Report

My 18 month joins me (in the jogger!) for most of my 2-5 miles runs. Ideally that is 4 times a week but I don't always get so lucky here in the Midwest with the weather since leaving her home is not an option. I'm grateful that she's content to come along. Making faces at each other helps keep my mind off wanting to stop on days where I'm tired.

My son is almost 6 and recently decided he wants me to "teach" him how to run. We're trying, weather permitting, to run about a mile every day or so together. I love this more than words can say.

I'm thinking about signing up for a half marathon in October. My only hesitation is whether or not I'll be able to commit to scheduled training. I imagine I could get someone to watch the baby or both kids once a week for my long runs, but otherwise I'm on my own.

Is 2-5 twice a week, plus a long run once a week going to be enough? I don't have access to a treadmill. Anyone else been in or currently in the same pickle and successfully trained/training well enough?

  • Kmc
    Kmc Sendmail

    I ran my half marathon right before I got pregnant with my 3rd baby. I never had a running stroller before. While I am not a single mom, I don't have family around to take my children. My husband is quite supportive. But, I remember not wanting to take advantage of him. So, I would take opportunities and run with them-pun intended. If my oldest had a chance to have a playdate somewhere else, I would plan for a longer run during that time. I imagine taking the jogger on a long run would ruin it. Now that my 3rd baby is 9 months old, and I am done nursing, I am ready for another half.
    #1. If you can do 8, then you can do 13. My Dad kept telling me this. I can do 8 any day of the week.
    #2. You won't need to "train" that much for your October half. A few 8-10 mile runs in August and September will probably be fine. Unless, of course, speed is important to you.
    #3. If getting a sitter helps you reach your goal, it is well worth it. I'm guessing you could try to find other dmr's in your area and trade off kids?
    #4. Running is for you. You deserve that time. If you do get childcare, make sure you relax and enjoy yourself. Don't feel guilty about leaving the kids behind. Then, it just wouldn't be worth it.

    posted about 1 year ago | Report

  • Did you ever find a solution to this problem? I'm having a similar issue. My kids are now balking at the gym childcare they used to love and my running is suffering. I need to run for my mental health! I'd love to hear how you managed (even if you didn't).

    Nancy

    posted about 1 year ago | Report

  • I know this is an old thread but whatever.

    A few possible options popped into my head:

    1) can your 6 year old ride a 2-wheeler? If you have access to a bike path, perhaps your 6 year old can ride his bike while you push the baby in the jogger? I've done that for up to 5 miles and the older kid really seems to enjoy being out on longer bike rides.

    2) are early morning runs an option? I'll often get up before anybody else and run while the rest of the family sleeps.

    Finally, I think that's super exciting that your 6 year old has an interes in running. That's awesome that you're going with it -- talk about a fun and healthy way to spend time together!

    posted 9 months ago | Report

  • Kmc
    Kmc Sendmail

    Well stated!

    posted 9 months ago | Report

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