Running During Pregnancy: Safety & Considerations

Question
I am a avid runner who has run 10-14 miles every other day.  I am five weeks pregnant and very nervous.  Can I can continue running like this or should I back down?  I had a slight spot yesterday that really scared me.  Thanks, Apryle

Answer
Generally, in an uncomplicated pregnancy, athletes and athletic women can continue with high level training without any adverse effects. In fact, athletic women, being healthier than most, tend to have easier pregnancies, shorter labors and deliveries, bounce back faster and best yet, have smarter, stronger and healthier babies.

Spotting in early pregnancy is not unusual and most of the time does not mean any thing is a miss. Since your spotting was very slight, I don't think that you have anything to panic about. But of course you're be concerned. I suggest that you take it easy for a few days, and when you start running again, do a very few short sessions ( no more than 3 miles), at an easy pace. If you begin spotting again, stop exercise and see your OBGYN.