Pregnancy & Climbing
From tips on how to safely climb during each trimester to personal stories from other women who climbed through their pregnancies!
I’ve got you covered Mama!
Taking you through all three trimesters and postpartum!
Congratulations! You’re pregnant!
You're pregnant and still climbing?!
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that brings about profound changes in a woman's life. It's a time filled with joy, anticipation, and a plethora of physical and emotional changes. As an expectant mother, you might find yourself questioning whether you can continue engaging in activities you love, such as rock climbing. In this blog entry, we will delve into the world of rock climbing during every trimester of pregnancy, exploring the considerations, precautions, and rewards that come with pursuing this exhilarating sport while nurturing the miracle of life. I will also go over tips on how to make the experience more comfortable and how to sustain a healthy body during this journey.
This blog also includes entries from other women who have climbed while pregnant because my goal is to create a community for mamas-to-be where they feel safe and accepted for wanting to both be a mom and continue their love for this incredible sport. I want you confidently stemming that wall with bump, no matter how far along!
Before we dive into trimesters vs. trimester....
Here are some frequently asked questions that I'd like to discuss first.
Should I talk to my provider?
Yes, you should always discuss any physical activity you plan to participate in with your provider. I was nervous to bring it up with my doctor but found out afterwards that she climbed her entire pregnancy as well and was nothing but supportive.
Every pregnancy can be very different so discussing any concerns with your doctor will ensure a stress-free climbing journey for yourself and safety for baby.
Do I need any special gear to accommodate my growing belly?
Yes, you will need to purchase a full body harness that does not have any straps crossing over the belly.
I purchased the Mad Rock Mountain Mama Maternity Harness. It provides an open design through the midsection which accommodates a growing belly without putting pressure there. Honestly, if I were to do this over again I'd purchase a Petzl 8003 Full Body Harness instead. I've heard their quality is better and it's overall more comfortable to climb in.
Full body harnesses range between $120 - $180 CAD ($90 - $135 USD) which is not a small investment for a harness you're only planning to wear for 6 months. Try looking on Facebook Marketplace or a used sports equipment store to see if any harnesses are being sold used for a more affordable option
Will I need to chose easier routes?
Mama, unfortunately this may not be what you want to hear but over the 37-40 weeks of your pregnancy you are going to experience lethargy, nausea and a decrease in flexibility. One of the first things I noticed when I got pregnant is how much muscle tone I lost within those first three months. Your muscles in your arms and legs aren't equipped to handle the weight you're going to put on in those short months and you're going to feel a bit off balance with the majority of your weight being in the mid-section.
Lets remember that this is all normal and a part of the process of growing your little bundle of joy. I was climbing 5.10-5.11 routes in the gym three times a week pre-pregnancy and by the time I reached week 35 of pregnancy I was climbing 5.7-5.9 routes around once a week and I found it difficult. I also found that overhung climbs were a lot of pressure on my core and pelvis so I mainly stuck to slab during my last few weeks.
I can almost guarantee that you will have to decrease the difficulty of your climbs by your third trimester. Your body is heavier, slower and a lot of your energy is being used to get baby ready for delivery. I think the biggest part of staying positive during your pregnancy journey is accepting that your body is different right now but it's not permanent. This is a temporary season of life and the fact that you are still able to be active and participate in an activity that you love is a true blessing.
What are the conditions for bouldering while pregnant?
Bouldering: Bouldering can be done pregnant but there are some safety concerns when it comes to bouldering during your pregnancy.
- If you boulder during pregnancy it is highly recommended that you down climb instead of letting go. Slamming down on the mat causes impact to the body and for the first 12 weeks increases your chance of miscarriage.
- Your risk of falling with impact to your abdomen or landing in an awkward position is increased with bouldering. Make sure to choose easier routes that you can hopefully avoid this situation.
- When you are pregnant your body produces hormones called relaxin and progesterone which relax muscles and loosen ligaments and joints, especially in the pelvic area. You may find that climbing becomes more difficult because of these hormones which may cause you to fall more frequently and awkwardly.
- Once your mid-section begins to grow with baby you will find that your balance is very uncoordinated. If you fall you may not be able to land properly because of the weight distribution and this can lead to unwanted injury to fetus and Mama.
Personally, as soon as I found out I was pregnant (7.5 weeks) I stopped bouldering. I had a high-risk pregnancy and a higher chance of miscarrying so my decision to stop bouldering till postpartum was an easy decision for me. If you want to continue to boulder but these risks concern you, talk to your provider before continuing.
What is my safest option for climbing while pregnant?
Your safest option while pregnant is top-rope climbing only.
I know for some advanced climbers this may seem frustrating but the chance of having enough slack in the rope that may cause harm to Mama or baby is very rare.
Once I found out I was pregnant I decided to only top-rope for the remaining months of my pregnancy. I made sure my belayer knew I was pregnant and that I wanted to be held tight while climbing to avoid any huge swings or slips that may cause impact to my abdomen.
Can I still lead climb?
No, lead climbing is not safe to participate in while pregnant no matter how advanced your climbing technique is.
When you are lead climbing there are many risk factors that you need to consider such as falling before you reach the first clip, falling within the danger zone (before clipping the third clip) and flipping upside down. If the bolts are 10 feet (3m) apart, you can easily have 13 feet of rope out, which would result in approximately a 25 foot fall plus you need to factor in rope stretch and the belayer's reaction ability.
When I spoke to my provider about lead climbing while pregnant it was a firm no which I expected. Sorry Mama, I know you were excited to keep lead climbing but it'll have to be put on hold until baby has safely arrived.
Do I need to stick to indoors only?
Absolutely not! I encourage mamas to get outside whenever possible. Pregnancy can seem lonely especially if you're the only one of your friends who is going through it or has gone through it. I had an amazing support system while I was pregnant and I still had moments of loneliness (blame the surge of hormones for this one...) so getting outside with your community is extremely important.
Three things before climbing at the crag pregnant:
1. You won't be able to lead your own routes so make sure you go out with a confident climber that doesn't mind taking this on for you. Almost every climb can be turned into a safe top-rope option for pregnant mamas so have that support available for you.
2. Bring a light-weight chair you can easily carry in with you. Pregnancy causes severe back pain and once you have a third trimester belly you are going to be miserable sitting on a log, rock or on the ground. I use the MEC Ultra Lite Chair which is only 2.5lbs (1.16kg) and easy to slide into a backpack.
3. Sunscreen. Honestly, before I got pregnant I never was concerned about getting a sunburn and my skin was very resilient towards the sun. That drastically changed when I got pregnant. Your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight because of the increase in hormone levels that cause pigment-producing cells to be in overdrive. Pack it, trust me.
Side note: My spouse began carrying a compact umbrella everywhere we adventured so if I overheated I could have shade pretty much anywhere. This was very helpful and I'm thankful he took on the weight for me.
With a supportive group, you should have zero issues enjoying a crag day in the mountains. Make sure to pack snacks to keep up your energy and stay hydrated. Have a satellite device incase of an emergency (this should always be on you while enjoying the outdoors but even more criticial while pregnant.)
"Embarking on the Hilarious Adventure: Surviving the First Trimester of Pregnancy!"
Welcome to the wild and whimsical world of the first trimester of pregnancy! Get ready for a rollercoaster ride filled with fatigue, taste bud rebellion, and emotional highs and lows. Your body transforms into a mysterious vessel of miracles as you navigate the land of perpetual naps, unpredictable cravings, and hormonal mood swings. It's a whirlwind adventure where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, leaving you laughing, crying, and running to the bathroom.
I remember climbing prior to my knowledge of being pregnant and feeling like absolute garbage. I was quitting on climbs I could easily finish a month prior and I was severely emotional towards things that wouldn't have bothered me nearly as much before. I was aggressively sick for 6 weeks straight and spent Christmas curled up in a ball on the couch while my spouse fed me crackers and soup.
Mama, the first trimester hits most women hard. You will feel some extreme fatigue and your body will go through some rapid changes that will suck up most of your mental and physical energy. You may still look like your normal self but there is a ton of changes happening in the background. You are creating a human from scratch and you will have to give yourself patience while you navigate this transitional time and the love for climbing.
TIPS ON HOW TO COMFORTABLY (mostly comfortable...) CLIMB DURING THE FIRST TRIMESTER:
1. Bring snacks to the climbing gym and preferably a large selection. You will feel an increase in nausea as you become hungry and even though the last thing you feel like doing is choking down a granola bar, trust me it'll be a saving grace when it comes to running to the bathroom every fifteen minutes. Bring a large selection so you're not stuck with the one thing you really may not be craving in that moment.
2. Take 'takes'. I know you may not want to ask your belayer for a 'take' but if you're feeling nauseous or dizzy you may just need to slow your heart rate down. In pregnancy, your heart rate increases naturally so feeling out of breath sooner than usual is common. Take that break on the wall before you're completely gassed and need to come down early.
3. It's okay to stay home and rest. Mama, I know you want to get out there and climb as much as possible especially knowing you're pregnant and will have to slow down for at least 4 weeks following birth but decreasing your amount of climb days for the first few months of pregnancy isn't going to be the end. You will begin to feel better around 12-14 weeks of pregnancy and your energy will return. Patience is a large part of this trimester.
4. Take smaller sips of water. Try not to come down from a climb and gulp a ton of water. This is known to increase nausea which is already an issue for most mamas during this time.
So there you have it— surviving the whimsical, wacky, and often surreal adventure that is the first trimester of pregnancy. It's a time of immense change, both physically and emotionally, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and every day brings a new surprise. When I got pregnant, I had no idea how much this first trimester would effect me. I remember standing in the living room at our old condo with puke on my shirt, messy hair and crying to my spouse because I thought I wasn't strong enough to get through this and I was struggling more than others. It took time to realize that I wasn't alone and this was a difficult time for most women.
So climb when you can, grab a box of crackers, and get ready to embrace that wonderful second trimester that will be here before you know it.
"Embracing the Bump On the Wall: Navigating the Wonderful Second Trimester of Pregnancy!"
Welcome to the fabulous second trimester of pregnancy, where the fun truly begins! Get ready for a beautiful journey through the land of baby bumps, newfound energy, and some seriously strange cravings. So put on your stretchy pants and prepare to start climbing like you used to again with some minor tweaks!
Mama, everyone around me kept raving about the "golden phase" or sometimes referred to as the "honeymoon" of pregnancy - the second trimester. I couldn't wait to enter my second trimester and begin feeling like myself again. Thankfully, around thirteen weeks I was beginning to see the light and didn't spend half my day attached to the toilet.
TIPS ON HOW TO EMBRACE THE SECOND TRIMESTER WHILE CLIMBING:
1. That Pregnancy "Glow": You are going to hear this one a lot during your second trimester and honestly it feels really nice to hear. Everyone talks about the mythical pregnancy glow, but let's be real—it's more like a perpetual glistening. The second trimester can turn you into a walking fountain of perspiration. Don't worry; it's just your body's way of multitasking—growing a baby and keeping you hydrated, one sweat droplet at a time. So embrace that radiant (and slightly damp) glow and keep a sweat towel or loose clothing handy! I found I was very self conscious when it came to the excessive sweating since it was not something I dealt with prior to pregnancy. Steer clear of grey clothing since it loves to show those sweatmarks and make sure you're always hydrating to avoid headaches and dehydration.
2. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Since we are on the topic of that pregnancy "glow"; proper hydration is essential for both you and your baby's well-being. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after climbing to stay adequately hydrated. Take regular breaks to rest and recover, allowing your body to adjust to the physical demands of climbing while pregnant is key.
3. The Bump Deception: I found my greatest bump growth was from week 20 to week 27. This was when I went from being newly pregnant to "woah! you're pregnant!" and with that came some balance adjustments. Be careful when hopping onto the wall for your first climb of the day, your bump may have grown more than you anticipated in the last week or so and your balance may be off. I found that I was much more cautious going over volumes during this time too. Take your time and don't rush.
4. The Baby Brain Chronicles:
Ah, baby brain—the phenomenon that turns your once-sharp mind into a land of confusion and absent mindedness. From forgetting where you put your keys for the tenth time in an hour to attempting to microwave your phone instead of your leftovers, baby brain leads to a series of comedy gold moments. Just remember, it's not you; it's your brain eagerly preparing for the multitasking madness that awaits in motherhood. In saying this, ensure you are always doing your pre-climb checks. Checking your belayer and giving your harness and knot a second review before enjoying your climb is more important now than ever.
5. The Emotional Rollercoaster: During this time of your pregnancy you may not know if you feel like crying or laughing. Your emotions are all over the map and sometimes you can't explain why you're feeling a certain way. Mama, I know it can seem difficult but this is the time where you're going to have to dig deep and be patient with your changing body. Even though so much of your energy has been restored since that first trimester; you are still growing a human and that takes a ton of endurance so embrace your body where it's at and climb for the love of the sport rather than a competitive game with yourself.
6. Snacks, snacks and more snacks: Trust me, this doesn't stop for the remainder of your pregnancy. You are going to get hungry so much faster and it's going to affect you more intensely. Pack a variety because you may have aversions to foods that you craved yesterday.
7. Climb with a Trusted Partner:
Having a reliable climbing partner is always important, but it becomes even more critical during pregnancy. Choose someone who understands your situation, is knowledgeable about pregnancy safety, and can offer support and assistance when needed. Effective communication between you and your partner is essential, so establish clear signals and strategies for effective climbing together.
8. Adjust Your Climbing Technique:
As your body undergoes changes, you'll need to modify your climbing technique to ensure comfort and safety.
Here are some considerations:
a) Center of Gravity: Your shifting center of gravity can affect your balance. Be mindful of this and adjust your movements accordingly, maintaining stability and control.
b) Use Your Legs: Rely more on your leg strength rather than your core or upper body strength. Engaging your leg muscles will help minimize strain on your back and abdomen.
c) Avoid Overexertion: Pay attention to your energy levels and avoid overexerting yourself. Take frequent breaks, listen to your body, and respect its limitations. I noticed as my bump grew I ran out of air faster due to the limited space because of baby. This made me feel light-headed and gassed. Mama, ask for a take and catch your breath before continuing so you don't limit oxygen supply to your baby or yourself.
d) Avoid Twisting Movements: Minimize twisting or abrupt rotational movements that could strain your abdominal muscles or ligaments. Keep your movements smooth and controlled. I found that mantling became more difficult as my belly grew which was something I needed to accept during my pregnancy climbs.
9. Use Protective Gear:
Wearing appropriate protective gear is always important when rock climbing, but it becomes even more crucial during pregnancy. Invest in a comfortable, well-fitting climbing harness that accommodates your growing belly during your second trimester. Ensure that the harness is adjustable and provides proper support and stability. Below I have attached the harness I used during my entire second and third trimester.
Rock climbing can be an exciting and fulfilling activity, and with proper precautions, it is possible to continue during the second trimester of pregnancy. However, always prioritize safety, consult your healthcare provider, and make adjustments to your climbing technique to accommodate your changing body. Remember, the health and well-being of you and your baby are paramount, so listen to your body, be cautious, and enjoy the experience while scaling new heights!
Bumpin' & Pumpin': Adventure with the Bump in the Third "Try-mester"
Mama, for your sake I hope that second trimester energy keeps flowing for you like it did for me because once you hit the 33 week mark you may begin to feel a serious draw of energy when baby begins to start packing on the pounds. It's okay, this is perfectly normal and should be welcomed since you know the end of pregnancy is around the corner and soon you'll get to hold the little human you've been growing for those nine months. After 30 weeks my climbing schedule decreased since I was struggling with back and core pain after climbing sessions. I climbed once a week from week 30 to week 36.
My last day of climbing pregnant is the picture featured below. I was 36 weeks pregnant and little babe was roughly 6.5 pounds (3.0 kg). This timeframe will be different for everyone but I found that most women I spoke with stopped climbing around the 36-37 week mark. On top of exhaustion, my harness was beginning to pinch the sides of my bump while I was climbing which caused me discomfort. If you're still comfortable Mama, keep climbing! There is no hard stop if you're feeling good until baby arrives.
1. Weight Change: I found my arms were not adjusted to my weight gain so I heavily relied on my legs for tougher climbs. Take your time and give yourself some grace. Your arms aren't used to lugging around the extra pounds. It's okay to take a breather and reset while you shake out your arms.
2. Energy Levels: You'll find because of your lovely little hormone friends named Relaxin and Progesterone that your energy level will decrease at the end of your third trimester. Your body is navigating an increased blood volume and circulation, disrupted sleep patterns, weight increase and a big emotional shift in your life. Accepting that you have to slow down within this season of life will help you mentally during this transition. Try not to get too frustrated with the changes. It's all temporary.
3. Hip & Back Pain: It's common for expectant mothers to experience hip and back pain due to the physical changes taking place in their bodies. As the baby grows, the expanding uterus puts pressure on the pelvic joints and ligaments, leading to discomfort and soreness in the hips. Additionally, the increased weight and shifting center of gravity can strain the lower back, causing achiness and stiffness. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also contribute to the relaxation of ligaments and joints, further exacerbating the discomfort. I found my left hip bugged me the most and caused difficulties when lifting my leg to place on a hold. Pick a route that is suitable for your physical changes and you should be fine. Avoiding injury during this time is crucial.
I found that a lot of third trimester adjustments happened in the second trimester but you had to take that new way of climbing and slow down just a bit more. Your body focuses a ton on baby in this last trimester and it's going to take a toll on you. I found that fighting it never worked and I would be more content if I just embraced that this season of life will be slower and I'll have to be selective of where and how I use my energy.
It is important for pregnant women to prioritize self-care during the third trimester. This includes getting enough rest, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in gentle exercise. If fatigue becomes excessive or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.
"Baby, We're Back: Embracing the Postpartum Perks of Rock Climbing with Little Babe!"
I'm thrilled about entering the postpartum phase of my journey. The anticipation of holding my baby in my arms and experiencing the overwhelming love and connection is beyond words. The thought of finally getting to know this little person who has been growing inside me fills me with excitement and a sense of wonder.
I can't wait to witness all the firsts—the first smile, the first giggle, and the first time my baby reaches out to touch my face.
While I know that postpartum recovery can be physically and emotionally demanding, I'm looking forward to taking care of myself, allowing my body to heal, and embracing the journey of rediscovering my own strength and resilience. I am currently 37.5 weeks as I write this blog and I can't wait to come back and edit this postpartum section to reflect my journey back to climbing. I'll share all my tips on how I physically managed the transition, taking baby to the climbing gym and/or outdoor crag and how to adjust to the new obstacles when balancing motherhood and a sport we love.
As I embark on this new chapter of my life, I'm excited to create cherished memories and document the precious moments with my baby. The adventures I've had the opportunity to experience have shaped the person I am today and I can't wait to share so much with my little babe. I dream about picking out his first pair of climbing shoes, watching his eyes light up the first time he watches a sunset from a mountain peak or the first time he rides a rollercoaster.
Though I know there may be challenges and uncertainties ahead, I choose to focus on the excitement and embrace the amazing adventure that awaits me in the postpartum period.
If want to see the day-to-day of how my pregnancy and postpartum life is going, follow me on Instagram at: katbadry_
"Thriving Bumps: A Guide to Staying Healthy and Fit During Pregnancy"
Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey in a woman's life. For women who were active prior to pregnancy, maintaining fitness and taking care of their health during this special time can be a top priority. By making informed choices and adjusting their exercise routines, women can experience a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy. In this blog post, we will explore some key tips on how to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy for women who are passionate about sport and movement such as rock climbing and exploring the outdoors with their bump.
Consult with your healthcare provider:
Before embarking on any fitness regimen during pregnancy, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can assess your individual circumstances, consider any pre-existing conditions, and provide tailored advice to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Modify your exercise routine:
Many women worry about reducing their exercise intensity during pregnancy, but it's important to listen to your body and make necessary modifications. Focus on exercises that are safe and comfortable for you and your growing baby. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and stationary cycling can be excellent choices. Always remember to warm up properly, cool down afterward, and stay hydrated throughout your workouts. I knew that I wanted to continue lifting weights throughout my pregnancy so I found a workout program designed by Macy Pruett, the creator of Fittest Core which I absolutely loved and kept me active every day during my pregnancy.
Prioritize core and pelvic floor exercises:
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes, particularly in the core and pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these areas can help support your growing belly and prepare your body for labor. Consult a prenatal fitness specialist or a certified pelvic floor physiotherapist who can guide you through appropriate exercises that target these muscles. My workout program through Fittest Core had exercises incorporated into my workouts that helped strengthen my pelvic floor and core and prepare my body for birth.
Listen to your body:
Pregnancy is not the time to push your limits or engage in high-intensity workouts. As your body changes, it's important to listen to its cues and adjust your routine accordingly. Pay attention to any discomfort, pain, or excessive fatigue. If something doesn't feel right, it's best to modify or stop the activity and seek advice from your healthcare provider. I found that there were days during my first trimester that my body was begging me for rest and sometimes that's what my body needed.
Stay hydrated and nourished:
Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for the well-being of both you and your baby. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day (2+ liters) and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Remember, pregnancy is not the time to diet or restrict calories. It may be scary to see that quick progression on the scale and I find as women it automatically sets off some alarms for us internally but focus on nourishing yourself and your growing baby.
Get enough rest and sleep:
Pregnancy can be physically demanding, so it's crucial to prioritize rest and sleep. Allow yourself time for relaxation, gentle stretching, and quality sleep. Your body needs this time to repair and rejuvenate, ensuring you have the energy to stay active and healthy during this transformative period.
Wear comfortable and supportive clothing:
Investing in comfortable and supportive maternity activewear can make a significant difference in your comfort level during exercise. Look for clothing that accommodates your changing body shape and provides proper support to your growing belly, breasts, and joints. My biggest issue with my workout clothing was the fact that my breasts tripled in size during my pregnancy (it happened very fast as well...) and I felt extremely uncomfortable and exposed. Good-quality maternity sports bras, supportive shoes, and breathable fabrics can contribute to a more enjoyable and comfortable workout experience. My favourite maternity wear was The Cindy | Bumpsuit Co. maternity shapewear. It was great for working out in but could also just be thrown on and layered with a jean jacket for a very stylish look.
Conclusion: Mama, I know that getting and staying motivated during pregnancy to keep active can be a battle all on it's own. Thankfully, there has been research done that says women who exercise just three times a week throughout pregnancy have shorter labor and smoother recoveries. If that isn't motivating, I don't know what is!
Staying fit and healthy during pregnancy is a wonderful way for women to nurture their bodies and enjoy a smoother transition into motherhood. By consulting with healthcare professionals, modifying exercise routines, listening to your body, and prioritizing self-care, you can embark on a safe and fulfilling fitness journey during this remarkable time. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so it's essential to stay in tune with your body and adjust your approach as needed. Embrace the changes, be kind to yourself, and celebrate the incredible journey of creating new life.
"Ascending Motherhood: Empowered Women Rock Climbing through Pregnancy"
Welcome to the extraordinary community of women who have chosen to embrace the adventurous path of rock climbing throughout the incredible journey of pregnancy and motherhood.
Within this community, we understand that the desire to climb does not diminish with the arrival of motherhood; rather, it grows even stronger, igniting a flame within us that cannot be extinguished. We recognize that pregnancy and motherhood are transformative experiences, imbuing us with a newfound sense of purpose, determination, and courage.
Through our shared passion for rock climbing, we have discovered a powerful avenue to embrace these changes and push the boundaries of what is possible.
In this supportive space, we come together to share our triumphs and challenges, to seek guidance and offer guidance, and to find solace in the company of like-minded women who understand the thrill of reaching new heights while nurturing the precious life growing within us.
Whether you are a seasoned climber embarking on the breathtaking journey of motherhood or a courageous beginner eager to conquer new summits, my goal is to provide a wealth of support, encouragement, and inspiration within our community. From sharing tips on climbing techniques modified for pregnancy to discussing the emotional and physical aspects of transitioning into motherhood, we are here to uplift and empower one another.
Welcome to our community of women who rock climb through pregnancy and motherhood. Let us scale new heights, conquer our fears, and forge lifelong connections on this extraordinary journey that unites us all.
Writer & Climber: Chlo Bartrum
From: United Kingdom
I’ve climbed on and off for almost 15 years and have always known that I wanted to try to climb throughout my pregnancy if I was able to.
When I found out I was pregnant with our little girl after trying for a little under a year, I was over the moon. I even went climbing that night! Of course from that day on, climbing looked a little different. I was no longer trying dynamic movements (not that I did much before!) and was then very aware of my body going forwards.
For the first 12 weeks, I only climbed problems I knew I could have done blindfolded, or repeated 10 times in a row pre-pregnancy. I erred on the side of caution until after our first scan as there really isn’t much out there on pregnancy & climbing!
Once we knew our baby was happy and healthy, I picked up the pace a little and even began projecting routes where the crux move was at the start, as to avoid any falls. I continued to climb roughly about a grade below my usual level and it was amazing what my body could do!
I continued to climb to a moderate level throughout my pregnancy, right up until 37 weeks + 3 days and giving birth to my beautiful baby girl at 39 weeks + 1 day.
Returning to climbing postpartum took a little longer than I’d have liked, due to needing an episiotomy during delivery. I returned to climbing at 3 weeks postpartum, with my sessions being limited to when either my partner or a grandparent could sit with our daughter at the climbing gym as at such a young age she quite simply wouldn’t be put down!
This, combined with breastfeeding, made even an hour long session quite difficult. My first session back consisted of simple jug-lines, just to reacquaint my body with movement after almost 6 weeks off. It felt amazing! My local wall still had routes up that I’d completed when heavily pregnant and the difference in how the movement felt was incredible.
I was -and still am- in awe of my body and its capabilities.
Now, at 8 weeks postpartum, I’ve navigated my way out of the newborn phase (an Olympic sport in itself!) and am finally able to begin pushing my boundaries slowly and gently, cherishing the time I have both on and off the wall.
Writer & Climber: Courtney Villegas
From: United States
Climbing while pregnant brought on a whole new set of challenges and skills to the sport I fell in love with. While I did climb through all 9.5 months of my pregnancy, I altered and adapted to fit my growing belly and other symptoms that came along with it.
I knew from the moment I found out I was pregnant at 4 weeks that I wanted to continue climbing as long as I could.
I didn’t know exactly how far I could get, as every pregnancy is different but I wanted to take it as far as I safely could. First trimester; insert morning sickness; ALL. DAY. LONG. I found myself skipping gym sessions due to just feeling majorly ick. I managed to climb a few sessions weekly still but was barely ‘hanging on’. At every OBGYN visit, I asked if I could continue climbing and was encouraged, so long as I understood the risks and practiced safe habits. So, I continued.
I did drop bouldering, indoor and outdoor completely out of my sessions as I fall a lot and felt more comfortable just keeping up with the control and peace of mind that top roping indoors provided.
Second trimester I was still vomiting here and there but not nearly as much. I was feeling so strong and capable! I was still climbing up to 5.10d and super proud of that! My belly had grown, but wasn’t getting in the way…yet. It was at this point that I switched to my Mountain Mama pregnancy harness and that carried me through the next several months.
Third trimester: Hello, baby! I found myself struggling more and more to complete some of the harder routes, although I still managed to complete most of the 5.10d slab found in the gym. Slab was my friend. Even not pregnant, slab is my absolute favorite.
I climbed up until 10 days before I gave birth, and not entirely by choice! 😂
I had a climbing session scheduled for Saturday, but went into early labor that Friday. It was advised that I end my pregnancy climbing journey at that point.
My six week postpartum visit I was cleared to climb and we went straight to our gym and climbed
immediately following the appointment.
Unfortunately, due to a move and other circumstances, I had to cancel my gym membership and have only climbed a few times since becoming a mother. It’s just the season I am in currently and that’s okay. I know we’ll find each other again in another season.
Throughout the journey, I absolutely felt supported and like I was breaking the mold. Our climbing community is amazing. People seeing me sending it up the wall with a belly was a conversation starter, for sure! And I hope that I inspired other women to continue doing what they love.
Getting Featured!
If you're interested in joining the "Ascending Motherhood: Empowered Women Rock Climbing through Pregnancy" and having your pregnancy and/or postpartum journey featured on this blog feel free to email me and we can discuss a collaboration.