With the weather cooling down and the leaves changing colors, summer is surely gone and fall is here. The crisp, cool air is an invitation to go outside and enjoy the outdoors. Does pregnancy change what you can participate it?

Get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and make memories! Here are some outdoor activities you can do with the rest of the family. 

Visit a U-pick farm

Remember when your relatives cooking filled the air with the delicious smell of pumpkin bread and apple pie? Now it is the time to relive those memories by visiting a U-Pick farm. Fall is harvest season, which is a great time for you and your family to bond together while picking pumpkins, pears, blackberries or apples. Be sure to hydrate. While it may not be quite as hot out, hydration is always important during pregnancy. Always discuss physical activity with your obstetrician or maternal fetal medicine specialist. Lifting heavy pumpkins or children may be advised against depending on the care-plan constructed by your physicians.

Go hiking

Hiking in the fall season is absolutely breathtaking. It may be helpful to avoid strenuous hikes during pregnancy, but there are plenty hikes of appropriate difficulty.  Whatever the hike, go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery. As always, stay hydrated! Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes and allow yourself to take breaks when needed.  We recommend discussing strenuous activities with your obstetrician or maternal fetal medicine specialist to be sure you are involved in the appropriate levels of activities. 

Tailgating

Football games wouldn’t be complete without the gathering of enthusiastic fans, setting up a tailgate, and enjoying food awaiting kickoff. Be sure to dress in layers and stay warm. Tailgating is a fun way to meet and make friends who share the same passion as you in sports. If alcoholic drinks are a part of the celebration, we recommend not partaking in consumption. There is no known safe amount of alcohol use in pregnancy. 

Stay active

With milder weather, fall is a perfect time to stay active. Jogging while being pregnant is recommended if you have been running regularly prior to becoming pregnant. If you’re not keen on running as a form of cardio, there are plenty of other activities you can try out: 

• Yoga
• Dance
• Swimming
• Brisk walking

Go to the beach

While it may be a little chillier, if you are looking for a place to unwind that is not too crowded, then the beach is a must. Fall is outside of peak season so you can enjoy cheaper rates, mild weather, and discounts. This could also be a great time for maternity photos!