However, when you have a baby in tow, there are some important considerations to make before leaving the house to keep you and your baby safe, whilst still making the outing enjoyable.

Here are some tips for when you go walking with your baby:

Walk Duration and Baby Transport

It is essential to consider how you should bring your baby with you when you walk.

For short trips, a simple baby carrier may be the best choice. There are lots of different varieties and styles to choose from. Your baby is securely tied to you and will often find this a very soothing position to be in for those short walks.

For longer walks, the ideal alternative is to use a sturdy newborn baby pram. Your pram should have a few key features, these include:

• A stroller frame that locks into position firmly to prevent accidental collapse.
• An adjustable seat to take into account the growth of your child.
• A stroller seat that also converts into bassinet mode for sleeping newborns
• A 5 point harness system that ensures the safety of your baby
• Shade to keep your baby protected from the sun and wind.

It is recommended that you exercise for around 30 minutes every day, but breaking it up into 10-minute intervals is fine too.

Route Planning

They say that it is the journey that matters and not the destination - this is especially true when it comes to walking with your baby! Try your best to stick to pathways that you know are stable, like pavements and asphalt. Avoid rough patches.

They may be fine for you to traverse but difficult when you are pushing around a pram. The vibrations and small bumps will disturb your child.

At the same time, crowded areas are not ideal for walking with your baby in the pram. This can be stressful for you and so it is best to go where you know there is plenty of room for the pram so you can enjoy your time out of the house.

Baby Supplies

Make sure that you have everything you might need while out with your baby. It is always best to travel light but to ensure that you have the baby essentials with you.

These might include a baby's bottle, nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, a dummy, and a toy.

Importantly, have water on hand for you too. As new mum water is essential, especially if you are breastfeeding. Be sure to bring a blanket or sunscreen for your baby, depending on the weather.

Remember that your child is not working up a sweat walking the same way that you are. Thus, they will have different needs from you.

Footwear

Wearing the right shoes can ensure a comfortable walk. Sports shoes are best as they can be used for walking and jogging. It is vital that your shoes fit you well.

A new pair might be necessary as pregnancy can affect the shape of your feet. It certainly did mine.

Alertness and Behavior

When you are out with your baby, you must always be vigilant. Do not listen to music or have other distractions. Keep your phone close at hand in case of emergencies. Always stick to safe roads and use pedestrian crossings.

Be sure to dress so that motorists can see you. Choose the best time to go out for walks. If it is too hot or cold out or nearing night time, going out may not be a good idea.

Meanwhile, it is also important to have good posture. Do not lean forwards while pushing the pram, your back will soon start to ache if you do.

Walking in Numbers

Make your walk a family activity! Having both parents around is much safer and also helps to connect with your child. You can also invite the baby's other relatives, including their grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Walks can be made more fun and interactive if you go with other mums and their children. Set a regular time for meeting and going walking. There will be days when not everyone can make it but it is good to have a set routine.

When going for a walk use this time to relax and enjoy being out and about. If baby falls asleep stop at a cafe, treat yourself to a cuppa, take a book to read and enjoy some downtime.

It is also a great way to connect with your local community and share your baby with them. You need to contact others as a new mum.

You will probably find other mums will start to share their stories of when their kids were young. You can glean some gems of wisdom for your parenting journey from these times.

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