Many women feel that exercise programs become more fatiguing as the third trimester approaches, so even getting out for a walk and increasing circulation is a big help in keeping them feeling good. An afternoon walk would include a pre-planned route that also included some small hills, but that is not too congested with traffic. Walking at the local track will offer women a planned distance, as all tracks are a quarter mile in length. With a diagnosis of GDM, and a growing belly, many women feel that they are too big to begin with, let alone trying to keep up with those who may not wish to keep their pace. Good walking shoes are a must.
Many women gain enough weight in the second trimester to warrant purchase of a new pair.
This may help in case there are any minor swelling problems in the feet, and newer shoes are more stable. One aspect of good diabetes control is that of self-blood sugar monitoring, as highlighted above. Self- monitoring lets any diabetic person know where their sugar levels are at any time of the day. It should always be remembered that any exercise program should be built up in terms of intensity and duration, including walking. There are many women who would not think of walking for 30 minutes two or three times a day, because of swelling, morning sickness, backache, or headaches.