I was walking over the fields and along a river. Much nicer than on a busy street with 'concerned motorists'. Some women yearn to be outside walking around, near nature during labour, and it works much better for them than trying to be 'active' in a claustrophobic hospital room. Being strong and active helps some women to not feel 'helpless' in labour, it helps them connect to their strength. Other woman have a need to be in a dark, private place, like in their birth pool with the blinds down and no more than candle-light. Sometimes what you want changes during the course of your labour. Your instinct tells you what works for you. My instinct was telling me all along to get outside and get walking. I didn't for the first labour but did for the 2nd and 3rd and it was lovely. Another of my clients felt the same, she walked in the rain beside the Yarra River for hours before she finally got in the car for the hour's drive to the birth centre. She gave birth as soon as she got there.

Shellshell, trust your instinct, darl. Horses for courses! Most women probably lean towards not walking enough in labour than walking too much.