Disclaimer: If I have to make eye contact with you at any point in the next 57 years, please do not read this post. Serious. You think I’m joking, but I’m not. I really cannot even believe I am going to publish this. But I am – no sugar coating included.
Let me give you some history before I get into the nitty gritty on this post… I look up to my mom. I’m the type who does things because it is how mom did it. I buy Tide laundry detergent and use Crest toothpaste because my mom did — I’m sure the other brands are just fine, but my mom trusted Tide & Crest so I will too. My mom kept the house fairly clean and made herself presentable every day, guests or not. And that has become a habit of my own.
That’s the nice, fluffy side of the story. My mom also never exposed any bodily sounds in public or around anyone, for that matter. In all my life, I have never heard my mom pass gas. It was left unsaid but it just wasn’t appropriate for women to do.
On a somewhat similar note, there was no talk of bowel movements {gawd, I feel so gross even typing it!} Yes, I know it is a natural but I just don’t do it. Carlos has never heard me pass gas let alone declare a BM. In fact, I’ve convinced him I don’t ever have BM’s.
But now, I have a problem and you
all are the only one I know to ask.
Running makes me feel like I have to poop. Whenever I run more than 30 minutes, I seem to have the feeling that I have to go to the bathroom {that seems to be a more appropriate way of saying it…}
At first, I just thought maybe I ate too much fiber-rich the day/night before. Or that I hadn’t gone to the bathroom enough prior to my longer runs. But it kept happening, no matter what I’ve eaten or not eaten.
Saturday, when I ran my 9 mile, it actually effected my run. I tried to stop at the port-a-potty however I got stage fright and nothing happened, so the run went on. By mile 7, I was starting to get crampy ended up walking about every 10 minutes just to let things settle down. I finished the run with a longer run time than I anticipated but finished, nonetheless.
Over the next 5 hours {a majority of which happened to be during our trip to Milwaukee}, I went to the bathroom multiple times — like I haven’t gone before. It was as if I hadn’t gone to the bathroom in weeks…despite the fact I am regular. And now,
It’s effecting my runs!
I’ve mentioned it a couple of times on Twitter so I know I’m not alone here, but am clueless as to how to get past this. My 10 mile run is 1.5 weeks away and I’m determined to figure this out — so determined, I’m willing to overshare way more than I was ever raised to do and publicly ask for help!
I go to the bathroom pretty regularly {as in, almost daily} so I’m not sure where this is all coming from..it isn’t like I’m backed up. Why did this happen? Did I shake everything loose? {eeewww} Please give me guidance, advice, thoughts & opinions.
P.S., This post will self destruct in 72 hours.
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It’s SO normal to have to poop while you’re running – running triggers it! During race day (and any time you go running, really) you should try to poop before you go. I usually wake up 1-2 hours before I have to leave and drink coffee and eat breakfast and make sure I go before heading to the start area. Coffee and eating both will help with a BM, and if those don’t work for you, figure out what does. If I don’t go #2 before I run, I will DEFINITELY have to go during the run, even though I am very regular (at least once a day over here). I don’t know if that helps at all, just know that you are not alone!
I think it’s pretty typical. The more consistently I run, the more frequently I have BM’s. I think some of it is nerves (especially for the long runs) and your bowels are working better from running! I have read of some getting up earlier to drink coffee or hot lemon water to get their bowels moving. Sometimes, it’s just gas that wants to get out
if you have access to a toilet during your run, maybe drink coffee or something hot before you head out and then plan to stop after a few miles to empty things out–like training your bowels. LOL. I’ll be following to see what you figure out!
Hey Jen! Yeah, that’s a pretty common affliction in the running world, unfortunately. I echo what the others have said–I always drink coffee and attempt to empty everything out before a run. Generally I never have to actually go while I’m running, but I’m often left feeling crappy (pun intended) for hours after long runs, with many trips to the bathroom. You could try experimenting with an anti-diarrhea medication on a run or two before the 10-miler. I don’t think it’s recommended for regular use, but if you determine that it works for you, it might be worth taking something the morning of your race. If worse comes to worse, most race courses have multiple bathroom stops–just be warned, since it’s a common running problem, they’ll probably be pretty stinky! Good luck!
I have to go before a run! Otherwise there will be issues. This is also one of the main reasons I try to run first thing in the morning – for some reason it’s just easier on my tummy.
I will say that it doesn’t affect me as much as it used to. I think my body is used to it now.
Hi Jen! I have the same issue, only mine affects me once my run is over (to the point that I will be curled up in the fetal position for hours on end in intense pain). Mine has actually gotten so bad that I am afraid any distance longer than 4 miles (which really sucks because I am DYING to do a half marathon!). A couple of tips though… Don’t have dairy before a run. Apparently the lactose doesn’t digest well and creates additional unecessary gas. Don’t eat anything to fibrous before a run. Before I run, I will eat a banana, or a piece of toast with a little bit of peanut butter. Also, take mylanta before your long runs. This has been my one saving grace. While I still feel the need to “go” after a long run, I no longer have the terrible intense cramping pain.
Sorry this is so long winded! Good luck! And if you discover any “miracle treatments”, pass them on! I would love to be able to run long distances again!
Not a runner but I have heard about this just last month..check out this girls blog
http://www.eatingjourney.com/2010/09/10km-recap-dont-poop-your-pants/
and maybe you can contact her
Good luck
I can’t wait to see what kind of responses you get on this! The same thing happens to me! I’m about a mile ahead of you on building up my longer runs for my half marathon next month and I’m struggling with this as well. I’m almost afraid to go anywhere after a long run because I don’t know how many times I’ll have to go to the bathroom! I also have to make sure I run routes that have bathrooms available. Good luck and I hope you get some answers!
I do try and drink coffee about an hour or so before I head out to run to try and trigger a good trip to the bathroom before I leave, but it still kinda happens during and after too.
hi Jen.
Everyone has GREAT tips on how to try to prevent BM’s while running. As to WHY it happens… I’m not an expert or anything, but my husband has had multiple surgeries on his bowels. So here’s what i learned. Your bowels are in constant movement in your belly, they turn turn turn all day. Movement such as running and walking, stimulates them to move more efficiently and quicker. This is also what stimulates a triggering of a BM. Hence why after sleeping, waking up and moving around- most people have to go in the morning. Which goes without saying the healthier you eat/drink, the healthier your digestive system works and the more regular your BM are.
No matter what you try and end up finding that works, I wish you luck!
That totally makes sense! It happens to me all the time too. Your body is moving around and this just continues to trigger it more. Be okay with it because it will help your overall run and mental health during a run (so that you aren’t always thinking about it!)
You’re becoming a real athlete Jen, I think that’s fabulous. Did you know that some athletes actually poop while they’re running marathons? And keep going? I think it was Greta Waitz who this happened to while running the NY marathon years ago. At least your problems won’t be in the newspaper, eh? To be honest I always admired her for not letting it stop her from running or winning a race. Go, Jen, Go! We’re all proud of you.
A “real athlete.”
After reading these comments you have to know that you’re not alone in this pooping feeling
Pretty much anytime I run, whether it be one mile or three, it wakes my digestive system up. No idea why or what to do. But from the sounds of it, it happens to most everyone.
However, I’m glad you got to this post before I did. I was trying to figure out a pleasant way to put it
Totally normal…I usually don’t have to go while I’m running, but there have been some horrendous episodes in the hours after long runs. Like others have said, watch what kinds of foods you eat the day/night before the run. For me though, another trigger was hydration. I have carried a hand-held bottle for awhile, but I may not have been drinking enough soon enough. Now, I take a sip every mile or so whether I’m thirsty or not and that’s helped a lot. Good luck!
I have a friend with a very similar problem but she was able to run a half without stopping, which she was impressed by. Maybe the atmosphere of the race helps? I hope you get help because stopping for a potty break in the middle of a race can seriously hurt your time–lines! Good luck.
I echo the coffee before to go and wanted to add that you are not alone. Before I started running/exercising I was incredibly constipated. I saw doctors, gastroenterologists, used Fiber Choice, FiberCon, etc. Running is the only thing that helped.
HAHA! Jen, I love this post – it’s probably my most favorite post ever! And please… don’t avoid me for 57 years because I read this.
I had this same problem when I first started doing longer runs. The only person I could talk to about it (because I’m of the “don’t talk about pooping” upbringing as you are) was my big sister. She’s an avid runner, and I figured she and I shared the same problem since we’re related and all.
We did. We were running the Disney Princess 1/2 together, and she handed me an Immodium AD before the race. I was like “what the…”. She was like “take it…trust me”.
Now, I take one Immodium AD tablet before all of my longer runs, and I haven’t had a single problem since.
I was afraid at first that the tablets would “back me up” (oh gawd…), but that also hasn’t been an issue at all.
One thing that I do to make sure I get things moving before a run is to have fresh lemon juice with warm water (half a lemon will work but sometimes I just use the whole lemon). You have to do this first thing in the morning before you eat or drink anything. It seems to work for me every time. Good luck!!
Hilarious! Can’t say it’s happened to me, but I enjoyed your honesty! Made me smile this morning….
I pass a lot of gas when I run… also during yoga. hmph… It doesn’t get to the *want to poop* phase… but you know. It makes me feel pretty un-ladylike, but then I rarely feel ladylike anyway. I think it’s worse if I run in the afternoon, so morning seem to help with that. However, I don’t know the “catch-all”.
Well, as most people have commented above – you are definitely not alone!
Running usually stimulates things – it’s the same reason that (if/when) you ever have surgery, you need to get up right away afterwards to start “things moving along.” I can’t speak for everyone – but I don’t drink coffee, and before a race, I definitely have a BM…it’s the nerves, I think!
I’ve had to stop training runs before for potty breaks…they are what they are, no matter how embarrassing. (and if you want further proof, go over to Beth’s blog at Shut Up and Run! (link on mine) as she tells some hilarious stories of BMs and running)….you’ll be fine come race day.
The more I run, train, or get moving the more regular and frequent I am! My trainer who is also my BIL says that it’s natural. Everything I’m learning in Nursing school says the exact same thing. The more you move your body the more your intestines will move the xxx through you. So I would take the advice of the runners before you and make sure you go before your big 10 mile run. Good luck! And it happens to all of us so don’t worry about it.
I have been wondering if you were ever going to do a post on this.
You’re now a true “runner” because I don’t think you can run with any regularity without discussing “regularity”…
I’m too nervous to drink coffee an hour or two before the run because what if it takes affect a half hour into my run?!? There are times where it really bothers me and times where it doesn’t. I just take it in stride and know that just like I have good or bad runs for other reasons (such as where I am in my cycle, how busy I was at work, how tired I am overall, etc.) I will have good or bad runs based on poo too.
I’m excited to see what tips people offer! Good Luck!
Ahhhh. ‘Runner Trots’ = the bane of my existence. This ‘little problem’ has dissipated for me over time (the more I run, the less I experience it), but believe you me… you are not the only one this happens to! Seems more common than you’d think.
This happens to me! And after one particularly embarrassing situation that, ahem, got a little messy, I was considering patenting some kind of “Super Runner’s Diaper” that had elastic that would hold up to heavy running.
Okay so I’m kidding about the patent, but yeah, I TOTALLY get what you’re saying! These tips on your blog have been really helpful!! Thanks everyone!
I have had the same question…thinking it was my diet. But it was always a strong “erg” to go during my runs. I thought maybe it was because I am now drinking coffee— because that will make you go minutes to hours after consuming it! So must be a normal thing that happens to your body when you are running. They always tell you to walk around if you can’t go, so I guess this is the opposite effect. SO…good luck and thanks for sharing!
I agree with everyone who has said that running triggers it and that it sounds normal. I also have this problem with some (but not all) of my longer runs. It happens more on my outdoor runs than when I am on the treadmill. I keep check of the foods I eat regularly but not so much the amount of fiber I consume so I have no idea if that plays a role. I have no real advice either because I was on a recent run with my hubby and we were not even 2 miles in before the poopy devil hit me…hard. TOtally ruined my run and I had to squeeze and pray through the last mile or so. Not fun.
I am a daily coffee drinker so I am not one of these that can drink it and go potty soon after but I have heard it works well for some. If you are like me you just don’t have time to sit around and wait for your body to process things before you can get out and run. I have to run when I can, poop or not.
Good luck!!
Count me in as another one suffering from this problem. It actually ruined my first half marathon experience. I’ve since learned that I need to arrange my running route so there is a bathroom within the first 2-3 miles of a run. If I feel at all off before a run I either run loops around an area that has lots of bathrooms or I run on the treadmill. If I don’t go as soon as I can after feeling the initial urge and try to get through it, it gets much worse and I’ll have problems the rest of the day just like you mentioned. It’s like my body is serving revenge for making it wait earlier. About every mile I do a little check over and if I feel even the slightest urge I head to the nearest bathroom. I now will not run without an emergency TP pack and have had to duck into the odd bush a time or two. Not something I’m proud of, but the alternative isn’t something I’m willing to do. Pre-race I do everything I can to ensure I go before hand, and also take good note of any pit-stops (man-made or natural) along route.
Certain foods can affect your digestive system. I know before I run I normally stick to something smaller (I run early in the morning) and pretty much eat the same thing. I also drink coffee before I run to help get my bowels moving before I run. If not, I normally have to go on my run which isn’t any fun. I just started to take a probiotic and this has helped me out quite a bit. Good luck to you but most people have to poop during a run.
I know it’s a repeat of what everyone else has said, but totally normal. When I trained for the half, I was going more frequently than ever before! I tried to go before leaving the house for a run… and sometimes I wouldn’t have to beforehand, but would complete my run and sprint straight to the bathroom because the pressure was so intense. All I can say is try to plan the longer routes with a bathroom stop if you can. Races usually have port-a-potties every so often if you need them. Good luck!!!
And don’t worry about talking to us about this. Trust me, if/when you have kids, you will talk about poop more freely and frequently than you ever thought you could!
#1 read http://twentysixpointtwoormore.blogspot.com/ she talks alot about pooping on runs and how she deals with it
#2 I have also told my hubby that girls dont poop or fart and he has never heard, smelled, witnessed any of this in the 11 years of us living together (no small feat sometimes)
#3 I have also noticed this with my dogs on runs as well (even if i make sure they go before we leave) so I think it is not just a human thing
Read the new(ish) book “Run Like a Mother.” I know, you’re not a mother, but there is a whole chapter on this!
I WISH I had that problem, fellow runners! I’m always constipated :-O. That affects my running because I feel ‘backed up’ and heavy. I eat plenty of fiber, so it’s just the way my system works, I guess. Bravo for bringing up a very common runner’s problem, Jen! And you are SO a runner now! Runners talk so happily and openly about bodily functions and ‘runner’s trot.’
Jen, I’m happy to see you getting so much support and advice. I ran my first 1/2 last winter. If you’re doing some carb loading in the fews days before the race, nature should take care of itself. I get up on race day, have a bottle of water and maybe a cup of coffee, do my business, and then I’m on my way!! Don’t let this little thing define your experience. Go with the “flow”
Michelle
i just realized that somehow your posts stopped coming through my google reader. Glad to see you haven’t actually stopped blogging.
I am currently laughing with you and not at you.
I have absolutely had the same problems and love your bravery with putting this topic out there. The only thing that has helped me, making sure I go the night before and drinking a cup of coffee every morning.
I have also learned that alcohol, especially beer, makes my runs shake stuff up in my stomach prompting the need (cough cough).
OMG! I am so happy you posted this! I am a new runner and I have been having a really tough time with whole poop thing! Nice to know I am not alone! It’s great to hear what the more experienced runners have to say about it! Thanks for posting what I’ve been thinking!
Hi Jen, I haven’t commented on any of posts before, but when I saw this I felt that I should. I’m currently in nursing school and can tell you that having to make a bowel movement after running is completely normal. Things such as water, fiber, and movement is what actually gets your bowels going.
Brief suggestion: Consider talking about this with the same counselor you are working with on intuitive eating. BMs are a bodily function, no different than hungers, cravings, etc. I wonder if some of the same “issues” you have around acknowledging and accepting THIS bodily function aren’t related to eating ones. While not always perfectly timed, BMs aren’t a problem to be “solved” any more than hunger is.
Lol. Great post Jen! I don’t have anything to add, except, in the rare occasion I do run, I know what you’re talking about. That is all. Lol.
I just wanted to comment that I think it’s hilarious that you got soooo many comments on this post. People like to talk about bodily functions, it’s why all the bathroom humor in movies still get all the laughs! LOL! Having said that….I get that feeling while power walking and walking on the treadmill too, so the whole moving your body thing seems the most likely. It’s strange that it’s just with walking/jogging/running for me. I don’t have that problem while doing aerobics, spinning, racquetball or any other vigorous sport… wonder why?
I usually drink coffee to try to “get it over with” before running. I haven’t gone the same distance as you, but even on my shorter runs this can be a problem. I think it is pretty common, just something nobody wants to talk about.
I had the same problem, and a friend of mine who has run several marathons suggested two things: TONS of water the day before a long run (as in, 100 ounces or more), and a small (1/3 cup) serving of all-natural fruit flavored frozen yogurt the morning of your run. I have no idea why this works, but it did!
Running or an intense leg workout. However for me it s a welcome “run” to the bathroom. Keep up the great work!
Hey Jen, I hear ya! What worked for me is stop eating in the morning before running. I also cut out high fibre veggies the night or 2 before and no milk. But I really think the no solids for breakfast are what worked. On long runs I will take Gu and water. This has almost completely stopped the stomach pains and cramps after my runs. I also take the coffee in the morning and go before I get out there and that at least stops the going during your run but the pain after was still present until I quit solids.
Hey Jen!
Haha – so funny about your mom! MY mom is exactly the same…never heard her fart. My dad, on the other hand is completely open about it and I take after him in that regard, much to the annoyance of my mom! lol…
About your problem – ditto that! I have gotten to nowhere near the distances you’re running, but I’ve had this problem after only a couple miles or so. I get really crampy too, and sometimes feel like I’m going to throw up. This lasts for a couple hours AFTER I’m done running. It sucks. I also feel really bloated and my belly almost feels warm to the touch, like my guts are inflamed or something. Gross, I know. I’ve tried to figure out what’s going on, but still don’t know why I’m effected after even such short runs. It’s so bad I’m not sure if I’ll be able to continue with running.
Anyway, google “runner’s trots” and see if this helps.
Good luck, Jen! I hope you find something that works for ya!
As you can see, common prob and best to go before you start your run and stop during the race if necessary. Tips:
1.) Dairy if you want on Sat for breakfast, no dairy after that (unless maybe the tiniest bit of chs on pasta at night or something similar). No dairy again until after the race on Sunday.
2.) Mostly carbs for dinner Sat night. Some people also do a small amount of protein, but I don’t. Fine to have some veggies with dinner, but keep the portion very small (think small side salad). If you skip fruits, veggies and other fiber-rich foods completely on Sat night, your body will forgive you for not getting all your food groups that one time. The most I’ll do with pasta Sat night is a very small salad.
3.) Coffee before the run if it’s worked for you before (it does not work for me, but no dairy and no fruits/veggies at dinner is enough to save me).
Jen,
This is my first time ever visiting your blog site. I am thankful that you were brave enough to post this because I am planning to start running soon. The course I plan to run has no bathroom so I am very glad to find out before-hand that this may happen. Good Luck!
Oh thank you for. Bringing up the upspoken problem of BM’s and running. Today I finshed barely a 10 miler. By mile 3 I was having the urge again. Normally I am able to control with out problem but today the whole run I struggled to hold it finally at mile 8 I ducked into a park bathroom. Felt better but with a 4min loss. The only thing I could think I did different yesterday was have a midnight snack with my daughter. Normally on my long runs I finish eating 12 hours before I run. And I usually make last meal juice for nutrients and no fiber. My last food meal is 2 hours before that. Well I hope I learned a lesson. I was pretty disapointed after working so hard to get derailed like this. Well here’s to my next half in Dec. “Happy poopy” to all.
Lol, I get this problem too, and I know quite a few other ( mostly lady) runners who do as well. I get it worst on long runs, or high intensity training like mile reps, or hill reps. I find the most helpful thing ( if you’ve done all the other things beforehand) is to make sure you try to plan a route with toilet stops, just in case! I always make sure I go past a pub or restaurant, or a chain store, usually they are very understanding when they see you in running gear ( I think secretly they know what the issue is!) hope this helps
Just the post I was looking for! As I type this, my stomach is still gurgling away. After my 8 mile long run this morning, I’ve already had 4 normal BMs! Tonight I’ve been googling for anything on why. It’s nice to know that it’s normal. It’s not something that is easy to bring up as a question at my group pre-run talk.
I’m blogging my training for the Virginia Beach Shamrock Half….http://chattyc.blogspot.com/
Cathy
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