Hiking while pregnant- Tips & Gear

I remember when I got pregnant with my first born, lots of women telling me to "Stop running, stop hiking, rest, gain 30 pounds minimum...." I was baffled. Could I really not stay active during pregnancy? I have always been very active. I surf, I hike, I run long distance. I knew I would have to be careful but I didn't think I would have to give it all up unless my doctor told me to do so due to a health issue. Well I got the clear from my doctor and my pregnancy was healthy so I could do whatever my body would allow me too and that is the key! Staying active is so important for your health as well as your growing baby's health.

We are not disabled when pregnant. We can still continue to stay active after being cleared by our OBGYN. We just have to learn how to adapt to a changing body, new hormones, a new norm. I did just that. I was able to run long distance until about 3-4 months with both babies. After that, my belly would harden and it was super uncomfortable so I listened to my body and stopped. I adapted and took on swimming with my first born. At the time, I lived in Hawaii, so swimming was easily accessible. I even surfed until I was 4 months pregnant! With this pregnancy, I found hiking as my alternative to running. I loved it! I continued to hike until I was 38 weeks pregnant and then it became to exhausting so I took on short walks with my family around our neighborhood.

I never was one for hiking before until I discovered how fun it was pregnant and with a toddler! It helped my toddler nap every time which was a huge plus!

So just a little reminder to always talk to your doctor first and once you get the clear to stay active, go out and adventure on! Here are some tips I learned throughout my hikes while pregnant. Happy adventuring!

Lea

1. Only carry as much weight as your body can handle.

Some mamas can carry their toddler in their carrier on the back, I unfortunately, can't. My body did not like it one bit. I was able to carry my Osprey Day Pack 22L with my DSLR camera, change of clothes for Kai, full 2L hydration pack, lots of snacks, a diaper and small thing of baby wipes, my First Aid Kid, my wallet and other little knick-knacks.

2. Wear comfortable shoes!

We all know just how achey and swollen our feet get during pregnancy. I started out wearing just my running shoes on hikes and quickly learned I needed to upgrade to some hiking boots! I researched for weeks on the best ones and these from KEEN, met all the checkmarks. I have hiked several miles so far with my big baby belly and they feel like I am walking on clouds. They are wide enough so if my feet swell, there's no tension or pain. My little guy even has a pair!

3. DRINKS LOTS OF WATER

I have a 2L hydration pack in my hiking bag and it helps remind me to drink lots of water. Baby needs it!

4. USE HIKING STICKS

I didn't need them on all my hikes but definitely on some steep ones I did. It helped me keep my balance and I used them to help push me up on inclines. I highly recommend a pair. I found mine at Wal-Mart for the fraction of the price as some other expensive retailers and they've held up great for my hikes.

5. Take lots of snacks!

I always hiked with my toddler so both of us were always hungry. Snacking helps regulate your sugar levels and keeps mama and baby happy. You don't want to be stuck on a trail without snacks!

6. ALWAYS HIKE WITH A BUDDY

I never hiked without another adult. I always had my husband, sister or mom with me in case something happened on the trail with me or my toddler. I was grateful for this because many times, my toddler would tire out and want to be held and towards the end of my pregnancy, I could not hold him for more than a few steps.

Always hike with someone! Take a First Aid (know how to use it) and just remember to have fun and enjoy each other's company. Don't expect to log the miles you did before pregnancy, embrace the change and be grateful for time outdoors.