Pregnancy Products The 10 Best Maternity Workout Clothes By Ashley Ziegler Ashley Ziegler LinkedIn Ashley Ziegler is a lifestyle writer specializing in motherhood, family health, and consumer products. She has written for Romper, Moms.com, and more. Learn about our editorial process Updated on March 01, 2023 Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Kristin McGee is the full-time working mom of three boys and realizes the value of mindful movement and meditation. She currently teaches yoga and meditation for Peloton. Learn about our Review Board Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Family / Danie Drankwalter Regular movement during pregnancy, whether it’s running, weight lifting, or just a stroll around the neighborhood, is usually encouraged. However, with a growing belly, your regular workout leggings just aren’t going to cut it. Maternity workout clothes should provide support for your changing body. Consider maternity workout clothes that offer support, comfort, and a variety of sizing options. We carefully considered design, support, sizing, style, material, ease of cleaning, and value when reviewing products. A personal trainer and yoga instructor on our Review Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity surrounding what to look for in maternity workout clothes, how they should fit, and what kinds of exercises are safe during pregnancy. Here are the best maternity workout clothes to keep you moving through pregnancy and beyond. Our Top Picks Best Leggings: Reebok Lux Maternity 2 Leggings at Dick's Jump to Review Best Sports Bra: Kindred Bravely Sublime Sports Bra at Amazon Jump to Review Best Nursing Sports Bra: Cake Maternity Zest Nursing Sports Bra at Cakematernity.com Jump to Review Best Yoga Pants: Motherhood Maternity Secret Fit Belly Maternity Yoga Pants at Amazon Jump to Review Best Biker Shorts: Storq Sport Pocket Bike Shorts at Storq.com Jump to Review Best Active Shorts: Old Navy Maternity Rollover-Waist Run Shorts at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Workout Shirt: Gap Maternity GapFit Breathe T-Shirt at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Workout Jacket: Old Navy Power Soft Maternity Side-Shirred Jacket at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Compression Socks: Lululemon MicroPillow Compression Knee High Running Sock at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Running Shoes: New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Beacon v3 at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Best Leggings Reebok Lux Maternity 2 Leggings Reebok View On Dick's View On Reebok.com The Reebok Lux Maternity 2 Leggings rank high on our list because these leggings have plenty of stretch to grow with you but still offer the right amount of compression and support. They’re designed to be worn for a variety of activities and are made from sweat-wicking fabric to keep you dry throughout your workout. During pregnancy, your belly will be supported with the full panel waistband, and it’s also designed to provide support for postpartum recovery. These pants are available in a range of sizes from XS to 2XL and come in several colors. Price at time of publication: $65 Best Sports Bra Kindred Bravely Sublime Support Low Impact Nursing & Maternity Sports Bra Nordstrom View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Kindredbravely.com Good sports bras are hard to find in general, let alone when you’re expecting and are in need of even more support, but this one is specifically designed for use during pregnancy. An added bonus is that it works as a nursing bra after the baby arrives to get you through the fourth trimester and beyond. It’s available in six color options and in sizes ranging from XS to XXXL-Busty. The bra is made from a mix of nylon, polyester, and spandex and is perfect for low-impact workouts like prenatal yoga and Pilates. It slips on over the head, has adjustable straps so that you can get the perfect fit, and clips at the cups for easy nursing postpartum. Price at time of publication: $55 Best Nursing Sports Bra Cake Maternity Zest Nursing Sports Bra Cake Maternity View On Cakematernity.com Since your chest is fuller than usual while you’re breastfeeding, this sports bra is a great option because it not only makes feedings easy with the cup clips but it also provides full, supportive coverage to keep you comfortable while you’re working out. It features a flexible wire and cups that mold to your body to minimize bounce, six hook-eye closure options to ensure a good fit, conversion options for extra support, and wide, padded, adjustable straps. This bra is available in band sizes 32 to 40 and in cup sizes B-K. Price at time of publication: $80 Best Yoga Pants Motherhood Maternity Secret Fit Belly Maternity Yoga Pants Motherhood Maternity View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Motherhood.com If yoga during pregnancy is your go-to activity, these supportive, stylish, and super comfortable yoga pants are a must-have. With rave reviews across the internet, these pants feature a waistband that can be folded down or pulled up over the belly for extra support. Available in sizes S-XL, these pants are made from jersey-knit cotton and spandex, so they’re super soft, have a bit of stretch, and are light and airy. Plus, they’re safe to toss into the washer and dryer, so you can wear them every day if you want to (you don’t even have to be doing yoga). Price at time of publication: $30 The 8 Best Maternity Pants of 2023 Best Biker Shorts Storq Sport Pocket Bike Shorts Storq View On Storq.com Maternity biker shorts are a great workout option in general, but especially for moms-to-be who run hot during pregnancy. These shorts are designed to fit during multiple stages of pregnancy and postpartum and feature a belly panel that can be pulled up. They’re also super supportive because they’re designed to fit a little snugger than most bike shorts, so they provide some compression to keep swelling down and your belly comfortable. You can choose between black or blue shorts, and they are available in sizes XS through 3X. Finally, while they are safe for a gentle cycle, these shorts should be line dried and will last even longer if they’re hand-washed. Price at time of publication: $68 Best Active Shorts Old Navy Maternity Rollover-Waist Run Shorts Old Navy View On Gap.com If you’re searching for shorts that offer a little more room, consider these ones which feature dolphin-style leg holes that will accommodate changing bodies and a rollover waist that can either be folded down or pulled up over the belly. These shorts are made from a quick-drying fabric that’s light and airy, which is ideal for extra sweaty workouts. The built-in brief liner offers you a little extra protection while you're exercising. They also come in several fun colors and patterns, have a hidden pocket for keys or a phone, and are available in sizes XS through XXL. Best Workout Shirt Gap Maternity GapFit Breathe T-Shirt Gap View On Gap.com No bells and whistles here, just a good maternity workout shirt that’s designed to accommodate your growing belly and keep you covered up throughout your pregnancy. It’s available in several colors and sizes ranging from XS through XXL, so you can find the right fit for every stage of pregnancy. The ruched sides ensure a flattering silhouette throughout pregnancy and during postpartum recovery. Made from spandex and breathable, lightweight, jersey-knit fabrics, this shirt provides comfort and stretch and is safe to toss in the washer and dryer. Best Workout Jacket Old Navy Power Soft Maternity Side-Shirred Jacket Old Navy View On Gap.com This jacket is technically designed for working out, but it’s also stylish enough to be worn any time. It comes in three colors with sizes ranging from XS to XXL, and it features sleeve cuffs with thumb holes, a hood, and zip closure on the front. The jacket is super soft and warm, but is still lightweight enough to keep you comfortable while working out, and has shirred sides so that it will fit throughout pregnancy and after. It also features zip pockets, reflective details along the sleeves, sides, and bottom back of the jacket and is made from a moisture-wicking fabric to help you stay dry. The 10 Best Maternity Coats of 2023 Best Compression Socks Lululemon MicroPillow Compression Knee High Running Sock 4.8 Lululemon View On Lululemon If you’re struggling with swollen feet during pregnancy, then these compression socks will be a great investment for workouts (or anytime, really). Designed for running, they are made from a mix of lightweight mesh materials and feature strategically placed cushions around the foot to add a little extra comfort when you’re on your feet. Additionally, they have a knee-high fit with graduated compression to provide the correct level of support throughout your feet and calves. These socks also feature reflectors for visibility, are pretreated to prevent odor-causing bacteria growth, and are available in two colors and in sizes S-L. Price at time of publication: $38 Best 7 Compression Socks for Pregnancy of 2023 Best Running Shoes New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Beacon v3 New Balance View On Amazon View On Newbalance.com View On Zappos Since you’re carrying extra weight and your center of balance is off during pregnancy, it’s important to have running shoes that will provide support and help with stability. These running sneakers feature soles made from “Fresh Foam technology” so they are extra comfortable, have cloud-like cushioning, all while still being supportive but are still lightweight so that they don’t slow you down. The top of the sneaker is made from engineered mesh that molds to your foot, and the shoes are also designed with strategically placed rubber pods for durability and to ensure they last. Finally, these sneakers are available in two colors and in standard and wide sizes, which is especially great for expecting parents with swollen feet. Price at time of publication: $120 Final Verdict You’d be happy with any one of these products because they’re all great, but the Zest Nursing Sports Bra (view at Cake Maternity) ranks highest on our list for its super supportive design, wide range of sizing options, and its versatility. What to Look for in Maternity Workout Clothes Support Support is by far one of the most important factors to consider when you’re shopping for maternity workout clothes. As your belly grows, you will likely need a little extra lift and/or compression to alleviate some aches and pains. Additionally, swelling is common during pregnancy, especially when you’re hot and sweaty (like when you’re working out). Clothing that offers compression and support can provide you with some relief and even help keep the swelling under control. Supportive shoes will help you keep your balance as your center of gravity shifts. Comfort Comfort is also a high priority for maternity clothes. Pay close attention to fabrics to ensure they’re lightweight and breathable to help you avoid overheating. If you tend to sweat a lot during workouts, look for clothes that will wick away moisture and dry quickly. Also, as the skin on your belly stretches out, it may become itchy and uncomfortable; avoid fabrics that could further irritate your sensitive skin. The clothing’s overall design is also important for comfort (and longevity). Since your belly will be continuously growing, you’ll be most comfortable in clothing that adapts to your changing body such as shirts with ruching details or bottoms with waistbands that can fold down or be pulled up. While your workout clothes should be somewhat snug to offer the right amount of support, they shouldn’t be so tight that they’re uncomfortable. Sizing Sizing for maternity clothes is often different from standard sizing, and maternity sizing can vary from brand to brand, so it’s best to double-check size charts for every piece you’re getting, just to be safe. Your body is going to go through tremendous changes during pregnancy (and postpartum), so you want clothes that will accommodate a range of sizes. Depending on the brand, you may find this information in the maternity clothing size chart or in the material and fabric details. Or, some brands note what trimester or stage the item is made for (early pregnancy, late pregnancy or postpartum) in the product description. Frequently Asked Questions What kinds of exercises are safe during pregnancy? Getting exercise is important and recommended during pregnancy. Swimming, hiking, and riding a stationery bike are considered safe for pregnancy. You can do yoga while pregnant if you avoid certain poses like deep twists or inversions. Running is also safe as long as you pace yourself. Talk to your doctor or midwife for personalized advice on exercise during pregnancy. Learn More: How Hard Should I Work Out During Pregnancy? Why is comfort important in workout clothes? Comfort is key when it comes to workout clothes. You need clothes that allow you to move and stretch and that prevent you from getting too hot or too cold. The more comfortable your workout clothes, the easier and more enjoyable the workout. What should you wear to prenatal yoga? For prenatal yoga classes, wear comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in. Stretchy materials that do not constrict are your best bet. Wear light layers so that you can shed a layer if you feel hot or put one on if you feel too cold. Learn More: The Benefits of Prenatal Yoga How do you avoid overheating during a pregnancy workout? It is important to avoid overheating during pregnancy workouts, because it can be dangerous for your baby. Getting too hot while pregnant has been linked to complications including birth defects and preterm birth. It can also lead to fainting.Dress in light, loose workout clothing and take breaks when you feel your body starting to heat up. Exercise in a cool room with a fan going and drink plenty of water before and during your workout. Learn More: How to Prevent Overheating in Pregnancy Why Trust Verywell Family Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old. Maternity workout clothes were wardrobe staples during both of her pregnancies and she used her own experience as well as product research to develop this list of recommendations. Considerations that went into these choices include fabric, support, style, longevity, versatility, and shopper reviews. 3 Sources Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Exercise during pregnancy. American Pregnancy Association. Hinman SK, Smith KB, Quillen DM, Smith MS. Exercise in pregnancy: A clinical review. Sports Health. 2015;7(6):527-531. doi:10.1177/1941738115599358 Konkel L. Taking the heat: Potential fetal health effects of hot temperatures. Environ Health Perspect. 2019;127(10):102002. doi:10.1289/EHP6221 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit