Pregnant at Disneyland: Counting Steps & Staying Active!

January 18, 2018 in All Posts, disneyland resort, pregnant by Vy

The Disneyland Resort is one of my favorite ways to get in a LOT of steps. Whenever I would visit pre-pregnancy, I noticed I was logging an average of 10,000-15,000 steps (according to my FitBit) – this is a combination of making your way across the different lands and standing in line.

Being pregnant at Disneyland gives me a different excuse to roam the Parks. While I can’t partake in the attractions that might be too bumpy for my bump, I explore the walking paths at Disneyland that often get overlooked during the rush for rides. Making sure to take frequent breaks to rest my tired feet – because every mama-to-be is carrying a plus one with them at all times – there’s so much more to Disneyland than just getting on an attraction. Here’s my round-up of ways to stay active during your pregnancy at the Disneyland Resort!

First, Wear Comfortable (Disney) Shoes!

Before my pregnancy, you would find me at Disneyland wearing ballet flats or even flip flops! Now, I am happy to sport some sturdy, closed-toe shoes for a visit at the Parks. Disneyland is known for being a place to walk everywhere and even though you may find ways to take some shortcuts (such as the Disneyland Railroad), there aren’t dozens of easy ways to get to one side of the Parks to the other without walking. A sturdy pair of shoes are essential if you’re tackling a visit to Disneyland while pregnant. I picked up a pair of Little Mermaid-inspired running shoes (pictured above) from a runDisney marathon a few years ago, and they are the perfect pair of footwear for a long day in the Parks.

Get off the Beaten Path

: Walking Trail

: View from the Tom Sawyer island walking path

: Plenty of shady seating to relax

Disneyland is mostly a concrete and asphalt jungle, which can take a toll on your knees and feet as you trek around the Parks. Two of my personal favorite places to soak in some scenery and get away from the crowds are Pirate’s Lair at Tom Sawyer Island over at Disneyland and the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at Disney California Adventure. While everyone is in a rush to get into a queue and experience a Disneyland attraction, pregnancy has allowed me to appreciate the often overlooked areas of the Parks that allow me to get some extra steps in but feel connected to the more thematic, natural elements of Disneyland. If you’re traveling with younger children, these places are also great to get out the wiggles as they can run around and explore. Get some extra steps in, then find a shady place to sit and relax!

Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost

One of my favorite things to do is to wander aimless around The Disneyland Resort, snapping photos and taking in the sights. I’ll meander in and out of the stores, looking for baby items and giving me a reason to keep active and moving. A visit to the Parks while pregnant doesn’t mean you have to sit on a bench and wait for your party to go on all the thrilling rides (though we’ll have a round-up of quiet spots for you in a future post!). There is plenty to do and see at the Parks that will keep you moving and keep you entertained.

This fun infographic from D23.com, about getting a workout at Disneyland, can also show you how many miles you can actually log at the Parks!

Photo from D23.com

Getting Your Steps for those Disneyland treats

When you’ve logged so many steps, it’s only natural to want to treat yourself to some yummy Disney snacks – after all, you’re pregnant and you should be able to kick up your feet and enjoy a Disney treat! (Did I mention how much I love those Mickey raspberry rose macarons?)

The Disneyland Resort is the perfect place to reach your step goal and stay active – and there’s so much to see and explore! Remember to pace yourself – you’re walking for two! Take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and enjoy the sights and sounds that Disneyland has to offer. Happy walking!