Being pregnant calls for moms-to-be to get healthy and look after their cardiovascular health while also looking for ways to improve their core strength. A great way that expecting mothers can check everything off their list is by hiking.

Now, don’t pull a face and think that it’s impossible, because we’re here to tell you that it’s not! The beautiful views that you’ll encounter on the way will work wonders for your mood.

But, when you’re hiking for two, you will have to take some extra precautions and considerations to be on the safer side.

So, before you take your hiking boots out and set out to conquer another trail, take a look at these tips for a much safer and better hiking experience!

Get the green light from your OB-GYN

This has to be your number one priority! Before you hit the road, check with your doctor to see if hiking is right for your condition. If you’ve been hiking for a long time, then it’s probably safe but if you’re just starting out or have a case of complications, it won’t be the smartest thing to do to jeopardize your own health not to mention, your baby’s as well.

Also, don’t forget to discuss hiking trips that involve going to high altitudes as these may need additional precautions on your part.

Choose to hike on even terrain

When you’re expecting, you will have extra 30 to 40 pounds of baby weight which can throw you off your center of gravity and put you at risk of falling when crossing over challenging terrain. To be sure of your footing, choose paths that are clearly defined and that do not require crawling over rocks.

Take along hiking poles

Hiking poles will give you extra balance and also assist in establishing strong footing. This will work wonders for your balance and decrease the overall weight on your knees. A plus point of this is that you’ll put your upper body to work as well. So don’t forget to include hiking poles in your gear.

Take well times for pee breaks

When you are hiking on the terrain, it will be like your baby is hiking your bladder real well. So, it is best that you plan your pee breaks well in advance to avoid discomfort. For this, scout the trail maps well for bathrooms when choosing the perfect hiking trail. Don’t forget to pack along some toilet paper just in case nature calls and you cannot help but go.

Hike around areas with easy accessibility

If you’re in your third trimester, it will be wise for you to avail of medical help if the need arises. This is why it will be a rather smart move to hike in areas that are well-populated and in close proximity to a hospital. You should be able to access your car easily if you have to.

Also, ensure that you have a hiking companion with you and cell phone service. If you lose signal, leave a trail and head back.

Be sure to carry your water bottle

When you hike, you lose sweat and this happens even more when you’re pregnant. This is why the chances of getting dehydrated are very high. So make sure that you bring along a water bottle and drink around 8 ounces of water every fifteen minutes or so.

Pre and post-natal personal training experts say that if you’re at an elevated point, your body needs more water to adjust to the new surrounding.

Snack in between

When you are expecting, it’s important to snack throughout the duration of your hike – even more so if you hiking along a long trail. This will ensure that your vitals are great, you’re well energized and your blood sugar level is also right.

It’s best for expecting mothers to snack on a combination of protein and healthy carbs on the trail.

Know when to draw the line

Every individual is different with varying fitness levels and complications (if any). Some women will be able to hike even in their fortieth week of pregnancy while other women need to rest more.

Similarly, different women will hike at paces and the duration varies. But what every pregnant woman has to do is listen to what her body says. If you feel light-headed or nauseous, head straight home and rest. Visit your doctor and get a checkup done to ensure everything is as it should be.

Now that you know of these tips, you can feed your adventurous side even when you’re pregnant, albeit with some precautions in place.