Challenge course pros offer their insights on working while pregnant.
By Kristina Riggs,
Instructor of Adventure/Experiential-Based Learning,
United States Air Force Academy
Pregnancy in the challenge course and outdoor recreation industry brings unique considerations for employees and managers alike. Every pregnancy is different, so whether you’re an instructor navigating pregnancy yourself or a program manager supporting a staff member, it’s important to figure out the right path to follow.
To highlight some of the considerations and solutions, this article compiles insights from industry professionals who have been there. Their experiences can help guide conversations with doctors, employers, and yourself. A thank you to all contributors from the Women of ACCT Facebook group and beyond—your contributions help our industry professionals every day, everywhere.
What to Discuss with Your Doctor
Your healthcare provider is a key partner in determining what’s safe for you throughout pregnancy. Many facilitators report being able to work at height until their sixth or seventh month of pregnancy, but the key takeaway: listen to your body and your doctor.
When discussing your job, consider sharing details about:
- the physical demands of your role (standing, squatting, kneeling, climbing, belaying, etc.)
- the safety equipment you use, including harnesses, fall protection, and PPE
- environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to heat, cold, or altitude
- the potential for falls or impacts from participant movement (e.g., catching falls while belaying).
Potential Limitations
There are some common considerations that may impact work on a challenge course when pregnant, but any adjustments to your work tasks and responsibilities should be based on your individual situation, including your comfort level. The timing of these adjustments can vary, too; they did for the women who contributed to this article.
Belaying, for example, may present risk due to forces on the body. Some contributors chose to modify their approach by limiting belaying to younger or lighter participants, while others transition to team belay systems for added support.
Climbing and working at height is another factor to consider, as it involves some potential fall risk. While some professionals continue climbing (belayed or using limited fall systems such as lanyards) well into pregnancy, others transition to ground-based roles earlier. Core strength, balance, and how the body responds to physical stress play a role in those decisions.
Employer policies can also influence what tasks remain feasible. Some organizations have written protocols regarding pregnancy and physical work, so it’s important to check with a supervisor or HR to understand any guidelines that may apply.
Additionally, as the body changes, equipment that once fit well may become uncomfortable or unsafe. Ensuring properly fitting gear is crucial (as we all know), especially when it comes to harness selection.
Harnesses: Safety, Fit, and Compliance
Choosing the right harness is essential for both safety and comfort. Facilitators report varying experiences with standard and maternity-specific harnesses. It’s important to ensure the harness you use complies with both ANSI/ACCT standards and OSHA fall protection requirements when working at height, and is approved for use within your course. Working with your supervisors and vendors can assist in finding the right choice.
Other considerations:
- Full-Body Harnesses. If your course already uses full-body harnesses, these may provide better support than a standard sit harness as pregnancy progresses. Some companies make Maternity-Specific harnesses (such as Mad Rock and Petzl) which distribute pressure differently to enhance comfort and safety.
- Alternative Roles. If a harness no longer fits safely, some facilitators reported transitioning to roles focused on training, ground facilitation, or course maintenance.
Regardless of the choice, proper fit and adherence to safety standards should be the priority. Consult your organization’s safety policies, as well as ANSI/ACCT and OSHA guidelines, to ensure that your equipment meets the necessary requirements for your role.
Advocating for Yourself
Some pregnant facilitators reported challenges in advocating for their continued work when others assumed they should stop. If you’re facing this, a first step is to clearly communicate with your employer. Be upfront about what you can and can’t do, and discuss adjustments that allow you to work safely. As mentioned, organizations may have pre-written policies or guidelines; use these to navigate discussions with supervisors.
Employment laws may provide protections regarding workplace accommodations during pregnancy. Your HR department or legal office may have additional guidance.
Lastly, but definitely not least, trust yourself. No one knows your body better than you. If you feel capable and safe, advocate for your ability to continue working.
Employer Support
For managers and program directors, supporting pregnant employees means balancing safety, inclusivity, and operational needs. Key considerations:
- Let employees take the lead. Each person will have different needs, so avoid assumptions.
- Offer flexibility. Adjusting schedules, modifying roles, or providing alternative tasks can help retain skilled staff.
- Be aware of unconscious bias. Some pregnant facilitators reported feeling pressured to stop working when they still felt capable. An open, supportive dialogue is key.
What About After Pregnancy?
Returning to work postpartum presents new challenges, especially in an industry with long hours and physical demands. Key considerations:
- Childcare solutions vary. Some facilitators relied on daycare, family, or on-site babysitters. Others adjusted their schedules to accommodate childcare needs.
- Kids in the industry. Many facilitators have found ways to integrate their children into the challenge course world, from bringing them to sites to having them grow up immersed in the industry.
- Work-life balance is personal. Some parents reduced their work hours, while others continued full-time with strong support systems in place.
Final Thoughts
Managing pregnancy while working in the challenge course industry doesn’t follow a single roadmap. It’s essential to listen to your body, talk with your doctor, and engage in open conversations with your employer.
For managers, creating an environment where pregnant employees feel supported rather than sidelined strengthens both the individual and the team.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is this: Every pregnancy is different, and the best approach is one that prioritizes communication, safety, and individual needs.
