Post-Partum Running Program
Who This Program is For:
- Any person who has given birth and wants to start running or get back into running in a way that is safe for their pelvic floor
- Recommended to first have an evaluation by a pelvic health physiotherapist at around 6 weeks postpartum to screen for and treat any pelvic floor dysfunction (incontinence, prolapse, pain, diastasis), regardless of vaginal or cesarean delivery.
- Impact activities (such as running and jumping) are generally not recommended before 12 weeks postpartum
Running Readiness Evaluation:
- Done at 12 weeks postpartum or later
- Evaluation is done by a trained pelvic health physiotherapist (receipts provided)
- Ideally pelvic floor issues have been addressed and the person is not symptomatic in their daily activities. If the person still has symptoms in daily activities (such as walking, lifting), then it is best to continue pelvic floor physiotherapy until there is better control. The physiotherapist can then determine when the person would be ready for a running assessment.
What to Expect:
- Duration: 50 min
- Wear your usual running shoes and dress comfortably (sports clothes)
- (Will asses pelvic floor if the person has not previously seen a pelvic health physiotherapist)
- Will be doing some movement tests to check tolerance for impact activities
- Will check strength of the core and major muscles of the hips and legs that are required for running
- Will perform running assessment on treadmill
- Will provide recommendations on running program, running technique, and even footwear, as well as an exercise program to address any weaknesses identified
- Follow-up assessments as needed
- Programs are tailored to each individual’s goal – whether it’s running to stay in shape or to run a marathon!
