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Come with me on my long run as I train for a marathon—just 3 weeks out and 9 months postpartum! In this vlog, I’m sharing what my long run looks like as a mom of four, how I’m juggling training with real life, and exactly what I’m using to fuel during the run. Whether you’re postpartum, training for your first marathon, or just love running content—this video is for you! I’ll take you through my pace, mindset, and marathon fueling strategy for longer runs to support endurance and recovery.
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The Postpartum Comeback
Returning to running postpartum isn’t a linear journey. My body has healed, but it’s also adapting to new rhythms—feeding schedules, nighttime wake-ups, and the delightful unpredictability of infancy. I’ve intentionally built back mileage week by week, gradually increasing from shorter runs to these longer efforts. Though I’ve missed a run or two here and there, overall I’ve stayed consistent and have felt surprisingly strong.
I was diagnosed with a grade 2 prolapse, so I have approached my postpartum recovery and return to running very intentionally. Physically, I’ve had a few twinges—nothing major, but enough to remind me that postpartum training demands respect and patience. Sessions with my physical therapist has been a game changer and reminded me of the importance of pelvic-floor strength and hip stability. Now, as I prep for a 12-mile long run, I’m feeling confident that this race will be more than just “survive and finish”—I’m hoping to genuinely enjoy the experience and maybe even set a sensible time goal.
Planning the Perfect Long Run
With my marathon only three weeks away, every long run counts. Today’s target: 12 miles. Next week, I’ll push to around 14. To make this manageable, I opted for a loop course—about 5 to 6 miles per loop—so I could stash gear in my car and avoid carrying everything in my pack.
Pre-run setup:
Hydration station: I filled a bottle of LMNT electrolyte drink (my favorite mix of sodium, potassium, and magnesium) and parked it roadside to sip each loop.
Fueling: Four energy gels (I like trying different brands—today’s favorites were a chia-based gel and a caffeinated “goo” gel loaded with sodium). I planned one gel every 30 minutes, roughly matching my two-hour effort.
Solid nutrition: A peanut-butter sandwich for protein around the one-hour mark (between loops one and two).
Anti-chafe protection: I applied lubricant to hotspots (inner thighs, underarms, anywhere friction tends to flare up) and opted for slightly longer, supportive shorts.
By pre-staging supplies, I avoid the awkward juggle of carrying everything, and I get a mini break at each car stop—perfect for topping off water, fueling gels, and mentally checking in.
My Marathon Fueling Strategy on the Run
Effective fueling isn’t optional on long runs—it’s essential. Here’s what worked today:
Electrolytes each loop
Stopping at the car every 5–6 miles to drink LMNT kept cramps at bay and avoided that “sloshy” mid-run feeling.Gels at regular intervals
At 30-minute marks, I popped a gel—even when feeling good—to maintain blood glucose levels. Today’s goo-gel had a hit of caffeine that gave me a subtle lift.Mid-run solid food
At about mile 6, I munched my peanut-butter sandwich, giving my legs an extra protein boost to slow muscle breakdown.
If you’re new to long-run fueling, experiment in training—know what sits well in your stomach before race day!
The Run: Mile by Mile
Miles 1–3: Smooth and steady. Chatting on camera was fairly easy (“Mile two! Mile three!”) and I reminded myself how far I’ve come since baby’s birth.
30-Minute Check-In: Time for gel #1. I felt strong but paused to sip electrolyte water and pop my first gel.
Miles 4–6: Rhythmic breathing and scenery changes—perfect mental reset before the solid-food snack at the hour mark.
Mile 6–8: Post-sandwich groove. The extra calories kicked in, but around mile 8 I hit a mental wall: “Do I really want to keep going?” I reminded myself that these tough moments make marathon day feel easier.
Miles 9–12: The home stretch felt gritty but empowering. With “just two more” then “one more” mile to go, I drew on that postpartum grit. Crossing 12 miles felt like a victory lap!
Post-Run Recovery and Reflection
Immediately after hitting 12 miles, I dove into static stretching—hamstrings, quads, calves—to release tension. Before the run, I did dynamic drills; afterward, static holds felt soothing when fatigued.
Tonight, I’ll likely roll out with yoga, and I’ve got my fingers crossed that my sister Roxanne will let me use her hot-tub ice bath combo for extra recovery. An ice bath or contrast therapy never fails to reduce soreness and speed healing.
Check Out My 8-Minute Full-Body Mobility Flow!
Key Takeaways for Postpartum Runners
Progress gradually: Build mileage slowly and listen to your body.
Invest in fueling strategy: Electrolytes, gels, and solid snacks can make all the difference on long efforts.
Pre-stage your gear: Loop runs let you ditch excess weight and stay fueled.
Respect recovery: Dynamic warm-ups, static cool-downs, and modalities like yoga or ice baths aid repair.
Trust your strength: Postpartum bodies are resilient. What seems impossible at one stage becomes routine with consistency.
Whether you’re chasing a first marathon or returning to your pre-baby fitness, remember: every run is a celebration of how far you’ve come. Lace up, plan wisely, and enjoy the journey—your next finish line is waiting.
