Is Breastfeeding like a Marathon?

I often compare breastfeeding to marathons.  Why you ask?  Because both require training, there's a learning curve to both, and neither are easy . I am certainly NOT a runner by any stretch of the imagination, but I definitely see the parallels between the two.  My own personal motto of running is more like this:

​
​Anyway, I do find that marathons and breastfeeding have a lot in common and more than just a marathon feeding session which you WILL feel like is happening when you are breastfeeding a newborn.   If you decide that you want to run a marathon, what is the one of the first things you’ll do?  Probably some research on the training and how long you should plan for in order to be marathon-ready.  Here’s my list of what marathons and breastfeeding have in common:

1. Both require some new gear – whether it’s the proper clothing or gadgets it’s best to have a few essentials.  Breastfeeding essentials include a good nursing bra, some breast pads, and possibly a couple of nursing tops or tanks.
2. An expert can help you  – in this case I’d encourage you to seek out a lactation professional to answer your questions and ensure that things are going well.  Yes, you can ask a friend who has breastfed, but not everyone who has breastfed a baby is an expert in the field.  I’d compare it to asking your friend who’s run a 5k about how to train for a marathon.  Sure, she can give you some tips and tricks, but likely the best info and advice will come from a professional who has helped others meet their goals.
3. Speaking of goals, have one goal in mind – think about how long you’d ideally like to breastfeed for.  This number varies from family to family and is certainly not written in stone and is always subject to change as situations change.  It’s a number to work towards whether that’s surviving the first month of breastfeeding, or you may plan to breastfeed for 2 years and beyond.  It’s helpful to have a goal to work towards. 
4. Do some research and have a basic understanding of the topic - take a prenatal breastfeeding class.  Often you can find free or low-cost classes.  You wouldn’t start training for a marathon without at least having a little understanding of what you are about to take on, right? 
5. Stick with it and you will hit your stride – with marathons, I am guessing that’s at least a few miles in.  With breastfeeding, it typically happens after about 3-4 weeks.  Breastfeeding is HARD.  If it were easy, there would not be a need for lactation consultants or breastfeeding support groups. Give breastfeeding a few weeks to work through the kinks and seek out lactation help if you need to.  Don’t stop. 
6. Know your limits – with running, it’s a good idea to know how far you can go without risk of injury. With breastfeeding, it’s important to recognize that you can get burned out too.  If breastfeeding is well-established (again about 3ish weeks), and you need time to yourself or a date night with your significant other, do it. If you need to pump and bottle feed for a few feeds, that’s fine.  It’s important to acknowledge your own needs and if you need a break from breastfeeding or want to go and get a pedicure or a haircut definitely take that time for yourself.  You have earned it!