Sport during pregnancy: hiking when pregnant is possible and recommended!

When you’re awaiting the birth of a baby, it's completely normal that all the attention is focused on the little one. It’s sometimes wise for the childbearer to pace themself to conserve as much energy as possible.

The good news is that hiking can be done gently!

DEAR MOTHERS-TO-BE, HERE IS SOME ADVICE SO THAT YOU CAN CONTINUE TO WALK DURING YOUR PREGNANCY, PROTECTING YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR BABY'S WHILE ENJOYING YOURSELF.

Practising sport when pregnant has many benefits. First of all, it's good for the body and for morale! Practising sport when pregnant helps with relaxation, improves oxygen levels and circulation.

1/ Check with your doctor about hiking when pregnant

The first thing to do before going on an adventure is to consult the doctor, they may inform you of any contra-indications. Of course, your health and that of your baby remain the priority.

Keep in mind that walking and gentle hiking are non-violent activities that will make reasonable demands on your body and therefore won’t put you at risk. Just use your common sense and pace yourself.

And if you have the slightest doubt, go to your doctor for advice.

2/ Choose a suitable pair of shoes

Your choice of walking shoes is important. You will gain weight (how much varies from one woman to another) during your pregnancy. Choosing shoes that are suited to your body shape will prevent back pain.

If you want to walk in the mountains, stay on the paths and if necessary bring hiking poles, they could save you from falls. It is important that you feel safe while taking care of your body that will develop during your months of pregnancy.

Keep your eyes open and try to keep your back straight, looking to the horizon.

3/ Listen to your body during pregnancy

Short or long hike for a pregnant woman?

If you are used to walking daily, you can keep doing this by allowing yourself about an hour every day for example. The idea is to keep a certain routine without any sudden changes that could surprise your body.

If walking is not your thing, try to find something to see, somewhere new to visit that will encourage you to walk a little.

Walking has one advantage, it gives the entire body a gentle work out. When you walk, you improve your circulation, your breathing and oxygenation. This means it’s good for you as well as the baby. Listen to your body and be reasonable, it's not about trying to accomplish new physical feats by taking on higher heights. Try to keep going on hikes for as long as possible. During the third trimester of your pregnancy, you will probably be more tired and that is perfectly normal. Stay vigilant at this time and if need be, reduce the length of your walks.

So long as your baby is healthy, walking will do it no harm, quite the opposite.

4/ Enjoy the countryside

While waiting for your child to be born, take the opportunity to walk to awaken all your senses and experience each moment to the full.

Delve into nature. The plants, trees and flowers that surround us play a vital role in our daily well-being. The more you are around them, the better you will feel. You can also try mindfulness meditation. The advantage of this type of meditation is that you can practice it even when walking. It's also a great way to work on your breathing. This will help your body to be better prepared for the day you give birth. Always remember to carry one or several bottles of water with you on your walks to keep your body hydrated. Avoid the heat as much as possible.

Make the most of the pure mountain air to take in the oxygen!

Why not also keep a little diary of your outings with photos, your child-to-be will be delighted to discover what your life was like just before their birth.

5/ As a pregnant woman, what is a safe altitude?

When it comes to the altitude of your hike, it is recommended that you don’t go beyond 1500m/2000m elevation.

You should also beware of changes in the centre of gravity caused by altitude, so be sure to progress at your own pace to find your balance.

Find out about our hiking clothes

FINALLY, KEEP ONE THING IN MIND: IF THE MOUNTAIN AIR GIVES YOU BUTTERFLIES IN YOUR STOMACH, YOUR BABY WILL BE THE FIRST TO FEEL IT AND WILL ALSO BE AMAZED! WHILE YOU WAIT TO BE ABLE TO BRING BABY WITH YOU...

Sport during pregnancy: hiking when pregnant is possible!

Cloé

Hiking lover at Quechua

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