How to Buy Maternity Workout Clothes

When you’re exercising for two—you’ll need workout clothes that accommodate your expanding needs. Here are some must-have maternity items that will keep you moving for nine months and beyond.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find a sports bra. You’ll need a supportive bra that fits your growing breasts. Look for one that minimizes bounce and has soft, flat seams to reduce chafing. For some women, the only way to get true stability is to double up and wear two bras at once.

2. Include shorts in your wardrobe. If you like a basic running short, you can probably spend your first trimester wearing a size larger than normal. By the fifth or sixth month you may need the shape and support of a true maternity short. Some brands have built-in support panels that hug the belly.

3. Try on bike shorts. These are a popular choice for women looking for both support and coverage. Experiment with different styles (over and under the belly) to find one that is most comfortable to you.

4. Choose leggings and unitards. Maternity leggings or yoga pants can have a supportive waistband or a simple drawstring. Unitards, goofy-looking as they may be, will reduce pinching and chafing at the waist and groin areas.

5. Buy a belly belt. These elastic and Velcro bands are made to gently lift your belly enough to ease lower back pain and belly soreness. Many of them are made to wear all day under any clothing, but you’ll find them especially helpful during walking, running or high impact activities. (see Resources below).

6. Pick out supportive shoes. Make sure you have plenty of arch support in your shoes. Supportive and properly fitted shoes will help reduce lower back pain as well as foot and leg pain. Your feet may grow during pregnancy—from the added weight and also from swelling—so don’t be too proud to go a half size up.

7. Shop for T-shirts or tank tops. Like your running shorts, you can probably get away with wearing XL cotton T-shirts, but you’ll be more comfortable and stylish in a wicking performance top that is designed to fit your curves. Look for soft, wicking material and flat seams.

8. Look for a versatile swimsuit that will last as long as possible, since most expectant mothers can swim up until delivery day. A two-piece suit will usually have more life than a one-piece. Look for brands that sell the top and bottom as separates, so you can size accordingly.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t buy too far ahead. Yes, you will keep growing, but it’s hard to predict how your shape will change. Many women grow wider before expanding outward. As a result, a lot of workout clothes that fit in your fifth month still magically fit in your eighth month. This is especially true for waistbands that sit below the belly.
• Although most women can exercise throughout their pregnancies, always consult your physician regarding any prenatal exercise routine.

Resources

• Title Nine
• Maternity Activewear
• Anita Sherpa Baby Belt
• Maternity Support

[Alisiane]

on 10/3/2008 Wait...so you cna workout when you're pregnant? That's a whole different approach from the "At LAST! I can sit on the couch and eat!" approach that I used in my pregnancy...lol

I'll have to remember these tips the next baby around :-)