Staying active during pregnancy is incredibly important. This doesn’t mean you need to be out running three miles every morning, or even that you need to break a sweat. But keeping your body moving is healthy for any point in your life, and particularly during pregnancy. This might mean brisk neighborhood walks, squats in your living room, or streaming a prenatal yoga session.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, exercise during pregnancy can improve your posture and can even decrease some of the discomforts that come along with pregnancy, like backaches and fatigue. Additionally, by staying active during pregnancy, you are building up stamina that can help during labor and delivery (do those squats!).
But we get it, pregnancy can be uncomfortable. And that discomfort can be amplified during the hot and humid summer months. One thing you don’t need to add to the discomfort is poorly-fitting workout clothes. Sure, leggings stretch, and maybe you can squeeze into your pre-pregnancy workout clothes for a while. At a certain point, an upgrade to maternity workout gear is worth the investment.
Maternity-specific workout gear will keep your bump and your whole body feeling supported and comfortable.
If you’re apprehensive about spending more money on maternity clothes, remember that you’ll likely be hanging out in your maternity clothes in the weeks and possibly months after your baby arrives. So, you will get use out of these pieces.
Here are our favorite tops, bottoms, and sports bras that will keep you comfortable as you stay active during your pregnancy.
Tops
Maternity Breathe Scoopneck Tank Top
This flowy top is great for sweaty days, allowing your skin to breathe. If you're experiencing tight and itchy skin, looser fabrics may be more comfortable.
Heather Rib Shirred Maternity Tank
This cute top from Beyond Yoga has comfortable leggings in the same color for a matching look.
All Tied Up Tank
A great tie-back option to accommodate a growing bump. It's worth splurging on as this tank will work during postpartum (it's great for breastfeeding), so you may be wearing this for months to come.
10K Plus Size Running Tank
This tank will give your belly space to grow and is made with sweat-wicking technology, a must as you run through the summer heat.
Maternity Breathe ON Mesh-Back Performance Tee
This performance tee has a partially mesh back to keep you cool and the shirt breathable as you work up a sweat.
Bottoms
Austin Shorts
These comfy shorts are made with a four-way stretch material, meaning these will work through all trimesters as well as postpartum.
Maternity Belly Support Girlshorts
If you're looking for a supportive short, these are the perfect pair. They are made with a moisture-wicking fabric that will keep you cool, whether you're wearing these for workouts or just on a super hot day. These are currently on sale for buy-one-get-one half off, so pick up two pairs!
Maternity Rio Shorts
Available in four fun colors! These shorts have side pockets, perfect for holding your phone or other essentials (like snacks!).
Maternity Crossover Panel Active Leggings
A pair of classic black activewear leggings perfect for any workout.
Maternity GapFit Under Belly 7/8 Leggings
These under-belly leggings are a comfortable option if shorts aren't your workout style of choice.
Plum Maternity Legging
This sustainable brand offers maternity leggings up to a size 6XL. Plus, you can get pretty colors (like the plum pictured here!) with a matching bra for a chic set.
Hayes Joggers
If you're ready to take a break from your leggings, grab a pair of maternity joggers. This pair features moisture management knit material to wick away sweat and is available in two lengths.
Sports Bras
Nila Bra
An amazingly versatile bra that will work during pregnancy and postpartum. A built-in antimicrobial liner will help to wick sweat and breast milk away and has clips designed to make breastfeeding easy.
Criss-Cross Sports Bra
A classically supportive sports bra for pregnancy and postpartum. Bonus points if you get the matching yoga mat below!
Go With the Flow Nursing Sports Bra
Another great option if you're planning to breastfeed. Get this bra now and get plenty of use for it during pregnancy and postpartum.
Zip Bra
This super supportive sports bra is a great choice if you need a little more structure. Plus, the front zipper means you won't be wrestling with your bra as you put it on and take it off. And it's great for nursing!
High-Support Underwire Plus Size Sports Bra
Available in tons of sizes, this supportive bra is made with molded cups and a compressive fit that will reduce bounce. The adjustable straps ensure you'll get a good and secure fit.
Accessories
Read More: The One Fitness App That Works for Our Editors at Every Stage of Motherhood
