Hiking when Pregnant: Advice from a Mum to Be!
So as it happens, today is actually my due date! Eeek! There’s no sign of Baby Girl yet - but as they say, baby will come when baby’s ready! So instead of hanging around waiting for her to make an appearance - I thought I’d write about my experience of hiking while pregnant.
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I absolutely love hiking and exploring the UK. Over the last 9 months I’ve struggled to get out as much as usual. But being pregnant hasn’t stopped me going on hikes when I can and spending as much time as possible in the great outdoors!
From reducing anxiety to releasing feel-good endorphins - there’s no better time to go on a walk than when pregnant. Thinking of lacing up those walking boots? Here’s my top tips on hiking when pregnant …
Benefits of Hiking when Pregnant
Being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to hang up your hiking boots!
If you’re a keen hiker, then continuing to enjoy the trails when pregnant can be beneficial for both mum and baby. Hiking is a great way to stay healthy, fit and active during those nine months.
Plus, spending time outside in nature can be extremely beneficial for the mind. Hiking can be a great way to connect with nature, practice gratitude and enjoy some amazing scenery, which can be especially beneficial during pregnancy.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine during pregnancy and to always listen to your body for any signs of discomfort or overexertion. I am by no means a medical expert! Please check in with your GP first - and always listen to your body.
Ready to explore the great outdoors? Check out my top tips for hiking when pregnant …
Top Tips for Hiking Whilst Pregnant
1. Check in with your GP
First things first - make sure you check in with your GP or midwife to make sure hiking is OK for you and your baby. If it’s something you’ve been doing for years, and have no complications, then you’ll probably be absolutely fine. If you’re a newbie, then going on your first hike whilst 7 months pregnant probably isn’t the best idea.
2. Take it Slowly and Rest Often
Hiking isn’t a race to the summit - it’s about enjoying the journey. Take it slower than you normally would and plan for your hike to take longer.
Even when I was just 6 weeks pregnant, during a hike to the summit of Moel Siabod, I had to keep stopping to catch my breath. The route, which normally takes me 4 hours, took a solid 6. Factor in frequent breaks, take your time and don’t over exert yourself.
3. Stick to Routes You Know
Now probably isn’t the best time to discover new hiking trails - with multiple stiles to climb over, tricky terrain to navigate and narrow ledges to avoid. Stick to what you know rather than risking the safety of you and your baby.
Don't be afraid to turn back or cut your hike short if you start to feel uncomfortable or unable to continue. It's better to be safe than sorry.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! Staying hydrated is so important during pregnancy - and becomes even more so when you throw exercise into the mix. Pack more than you need and drink little and often to keep hydrated.
Another must when hiking whilst pregnant - bring plenty of snacks with you to keep your energy levels up during the hike. If you’re anything like me, you’ll have the munchies a lot more when pregnant! Listen to your body. My favourite hiking snacks are bananas, granola bars and mixed nuts.
5. Remember Your Hiking Poles
I’ve never really been a fan of hiking poles, but I definitely needed them throughout my pregnancy - especially during the third trimester. My balance was all off and the extra weight meant that going down hill was more painful on my joints. Plus, during pregnancy the extra hormones loosen your joints so you may be more susceptible to slipping.
And always remember to wear sturdy hiking boots.
6. Pack the SPF
Pregnancy hormones can make your skin sensitive to the sun and you may burn more easily. Make sure your skin is protected with a high-factor sunscreen and try to stick to tree-covered paths.
7. Take Your Hiking Buddy
Don't get me wrong - I absolutely love a good solo hike! But whilst pregnant, especially during your third trimester, it’s always a good idea to hike with a friend. An extra person to share the load, distribute the weight of snacks and water and to be there in case of an emergency.
If you are going solo - tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back, and bring a fully charged mobile phone with you just in case.
8. Plan your Wee Breaks!
Being pregnant means you’ll be needing the toilet a lot. When you’re 32 weeks pregnant and the baby presses against your bladder, there’s not a lot you can do about it! Check your route for any toilets - and bring some toilet paper with you for those urgent moments! (Just remember to leave no trace!)
9. Listen to your Body
Last but not least, always listen to your body! Pregnancy is unpredictable - one day I’d feel ready to take on the world, the next I’d be in need of a duvet day, finding the simplest of tasks a challenge.
You know yourself best. Feeling dizzy or lightheaded? Take a break. Wake up feeling exhausted? Plan your hike for another day. The mountains will be waiting for you.
I hope you enjoyed reading my top tips for hiking when pregnant! Do you have any other tips to share? Add them to the comments below.