Running a Marathon with EDS—Part Two (video)

How I Ran a Marathon with EDS (Part Two) 🏃‍♀️🦓

If you haven’t seen Part 1, check it out for important context and a disclaimer about this series. Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is so different for everyone, and while I’m in a place now where I could train for a marathon, there were many times in my life when doing something like this would have been harmful and impossible.

This post isn’t saying that anyone with EDS should run a marathon—or even that it’s a good idea for most people. Instead, I’m sharing what’s worked for me. These products aren’t just for running but could also help with general activity or daily life for people with similar symptoms.

💡 What You Don’t See Behind the Finish Line:

When I posted a picture of me with my marathon medal, no one saw the behind-the-scenes effort:

🤍 KT tape under my clothes stabilizing my joints.

🤍 A shoulder brace keeping multi-directional instability in check.

🤍 Compression socks to manage blood pooling.

🤍 Numerous physical therapy, recovery exercises, and doctor’s appointments.

Even training looked different for me. I didn’t focus on time or speed; I ran slowly, walked when needed, and adjusted based on how my body felt. It wasn’t about pushing through pain—it was about learning how to work with my body and respecting my limits.

✨ Products Highlighted in Part 2:

⭐️ Shoulder Brace: This helps stabilize my shoulder during runs due to multi-directional instability after two surgeries.

⭐️ Compression Socks: A game-changer for managing blood pooling and circulation, especially with my POTS symptoms.

⭐️ Zero Drop Shoes + Tread Lab Insoles: This combination helps my gait and reduces joint strain (though zero drop shoes aren’t for everyone!).

⭐️ Align Med Sports Bra: Supportive, easy to put on, and helpful for occasional rib pain while running.

This post isn’t just about products; it’s about raising awareness of the many adjustments and accommodations people with chronic illnesses often make to pursue their goals—or simply to stay active.