Running has been part of my life for well over 20 years. I’ve completed a few London Marathons, many half marathons and continue to run many timed 10 and 5 ks. Im not a great runner but I love it and that’s what counts! I love how running makes you feel, its simplicity, the enjoyment of being outside in the beautiful surroundings where I live, the head space and also the community that running has bought for me. I am also a mum of 2 amazing kids and thrilled that they also seem to have the running bug, enjoying a weekly junior parkrun and being active.
I had my first child 5 years ago and following a difficult pregnancy and delivery I was unable to run for a long time post baby. This was a really hard time for me especially as running has always been an integral part of my life.
Fortunately I am a women’s health physiotherapist (a physio that treats all things related to pelvic health) and had the tools that would see me back on the road to recovery. Pelvic floor issues, back, hip pain are all common issues post baby and can either cause women embarrassment or prevent them exercising. Running places high demands on our bodies and if we return to running too quickly without strengthening a cascade of injuries can occur. The majority of pelvic floor issues can however be treated effectively by a women’s health physio. I strongly believe that women should see a women’s health physio post baby to ensure that they return to running safely and effectively.
I set up an all-women’s running club 2 years ago, in my local area, called Oxted Ladies Run club. We are a non-profit club that walk or run together every Saturday. We are a tribe of women that support each other. We run for fun and have a strong sense of community. I educate the ladies in the club about pelvic floor issues and offer to guide them back to running post baby. I am passionate running about treating postnatal women guiding them back to running and ensuring their running career is long and enjoyable.
Emma Brockwell
