Things to Consider for Hiking When Pregnant
If you’re pregnant and already lead an active lifestyle, you’ll probably want to continue this for as long as possible. The good news is that it’s safe to do so! Staying active when pregnant will not only help you stay fit during pregnancy, but also makes labour easier and makes the postpartum recovery faster too. Don’t start any new strenuous activities, be prepared to slow down a bit as the pregnancy progresses and speak to your midwife or GP if you have any concerns at all.
- Walking & Talking
If you’re a mama to be who loves hiking, you can keep doing so for as long as you feel comfortable. The general rule of thumb is that you should be able to keep a conversation going without getting out of breath so keep it to that kind of intensity level.
- Drink More Water
Pregnancy can make you really thirsty so make sure you carry plenty of water or know where you can refill your water bottle to ensure that you stay well-hydrated at all times.
- Pack Extra Snacks
Pregnancy hunger and cravings can strike any time so also make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand for when you need a little pick me up. These simple Biscoff brownie bites or these Cherry Bakewell Energy Balls sound perfect for a tasty energy boost!
- Choose Your Terrain Wisely
Even if you love rough terrains normally, try to stick to safer terrains when pregnant as a fall could be very risky. Avoid rocky climbs and opt for flatter hikes with proper paths to help reduce the risk of any accidents. Be realistic when planning the route and don’t push yourself too hard. Take regular breaks as needed.
- Check Your Shoes
It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience swollen feet so before you head out on a long hike, check that your hiking shoes still fit properly. Always remember to look after your feet before and after a hike to keep them happy.
- Be Comfortable
Choose your pregnancy hiking clothes carefully and only wear things that you know you’ll be comfortable in. Anything too small or something that might rub is a no go. Also think about wearing layers so that you can take a layer off if you get too hot. Coping with the heat when pregnant can be hard enough when you’re just sat still, so take extra care in the heat to stay comfortable.
As always, be safe, wear sunscreen and a hat, remember to take your (fully charged) phone and enjoy!
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