How to Dress for a Workout When Pregnant

As your belly expands, so will your need for comfortable and practical workout wear. Whether you fancy a game of tennis, laps in the pool or a brisk walk, you may have more options than you think.

Things You'll Need

• Maternity Unitards
• Maternity Dresses
• Maternity Leggings
• Maternity Shorts
• Maternity Swimwears
• Pregnancy Sports Bras
• Running Shorts
• T-shirts

Instructions

1. Buy new pieces that you can grow into. If the fit is loose in your fourth or fifth month, it'll be perfect by month seven or eight.

2. Look for new swimsuits and activewear with plenty of stretch. Choose items with 4 to 10 percent spandex, which will allow the items to grow with you.

3. Wear cycling shorts in place of cropped leggings or running shorts. They have multiple panels that expand in ways a tubular construction cannot.

4. Invest in a unitard. It will allow your belly to rest unencumbered by a waistband and free your groin of a tugging leotard.

5. Substitute a roomy pair of running shorts for a tennis skirt, and an oversized T-shirt for a tennis sweater. Casual oversized T-shirt dresses make a great alternative to a tennis dress.

6. Buy an exercise or jog bra. Wear it under a unitard, T-shirt, swimsuit or dress to offer your breasts maximum support.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash all swimsuits and activewear in cool water on a delicate cycle. Hang to dry. This will extend their life and prevent any unnecessary shrinkage.

• Borrow instead of buy. Your husband or brothers may have a drawer full of running shorts, T-shirts or sweatpants that could serve you well during various stages of your term.

• Always consult with your physician about your exercise regime during pregnancy.

• Avoid squeezing into pieces that are too tight in your groin or around your waist. They may cut off your circulation.