Hey mama! Wondering if curb walking can really kickstart labor? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re full-term and so very ready to meet your little one, or just exploring natural ways to get things moving, you’ve probably seen curb walking pop up or heard about it from other pregnant mamas.
So, what is curb walking exactly? Can it really induce labor? And most importantly — is it safe?
We’re breaking it all down for you, step by step!
Curb walking is a simple, low-impact movement where you walk with one foot on the curb and one foot on the street, creating a slight imbalance in your hips and pelvis as you walk.
Yep — that’s it! But here’s why it’s become such a buzzworthy labor tip in the pregnant mama world.
It’s all about asymmetry
The uneven step pattern encourages your pelvis to tilt and rock with each step, which can help baby move lower into the birth canal — especially if they’re not fully engaged yet.
Think of it like gently coaxing your baby into a better position for birth — one lopsided step at a time!
🧘♀️ It’s like prenatal yoga... but on the sidewalk
The movement opens up your hips, stretches your pelvic floor, and promotes alignment — kind of like doing side lunges or pelvic tilts, but way more casual.
Best of all? You can do it outside in fresh air, with your favorite playlist, podcast, or birth affirmations on repeat 🎧
Lots of mamas try curb walking in the last weeks of pregnancy as a natural labor induction method. It’s low-risk, free, and lets gravity do some of the work — yes, please!
That said, it's not a magical labor switch. Think of it as one of many things you can try if you're nearing your due date and feel ready but there's no guarantee it will put you in labor.
Let’s be real — there isn’t a ton of scientific research backing this one up. But anecdotally? Tons of mamas swear by it (including myself!)
Here’s why curb walking might work:
It won’t work if your body isn’t ready. No movement, tea, food, or trick can “force” labor if your cervix, hormones, and baby aren’t in alignment yet. But if your body is on the edge of labor? Curb walking could be the little spark it needs 🔥
Some mamas feel things shift right away — while others just get some good pelvic movement and fresh air.
Either way? It’s a win in my opinion!
Stick to curb walking after 37 weeks, once you’re considered full term
If you’re not sure whether your body is ready — or you’re dealing with complications — talk to your provider first.
Always listen to your body and check in with your provider if you’re unsure!
Safety first, always! Here’s how to give curb walking a try without overdoing it:
Ready to give curb walking a try? Here’s exactly how to do it safely and effectively:
1. Find a safe curb
Look for a flat, even curb in a quiet area — like a sidewalk near your home or a park path. Avoid curbs with cracks or busy traffic.
2. Stand sideways to the curb
Place one foot on the curb (higher surface) and the other on the street (lower surface). This creates a slight tilt in your pelvis.
3. Begin walking slowly
Walk along the curb in a straight line for 5–15 minutes. Keep your posture upright and your core gently engaged.
4. Switch directions and feet
After a few minutes, turn around and swap which foot is higher so you work both sides evenly.
⭐️ Listen to your body!
If you feel pressure, cramping, or discomfort, take a break or call it a day. A little goes a long way!
While curb walking is gentle for most mamas, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Trust your body — if something feels off, skip it and try another gentle induction method instead.
Curb walking isn’t for everyone, and that’s totally okay! Avoid it if:
When in doubt? Check in with your provider before trying anything new — they’ll help guide you safely.
You might feel:
Or… nothing at all — and that’s okay! Labor is complex, and no one trick works for everyone. It may help, or it may just give you a great excuse to get outside and move your body.
1. Miles circuit
3. Sex
4. Membrane sweep
5. Pineapple
Related Reading: Natural Ways to Induce Labor: Everything You Need to Know!
If you’re full term, feeling good, and want to try a gentle, natural way to encourage labor — curb walking is a low-risk option to explore!
Just remember: Your baby and your body are in control of the timing. No need to rush things — but if you’re eager and ready, a little sidewalk strut might be just what you need 😉
You’ve got this, mama!!