The Best Maternity Workout Clothes and Exercise Gear for a Healthy Pregnancy, According to Fitness Experts
by Samantha McIntyre
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Keep it moving, Mama! Just because there’s a brand-new baby on board, that doesn’t mean you can’t keep fit with a regular workout routine. In fact, it’s even more important for expectant mothers to exercise each day, as there are so many health benefits for mommy and baby, including reduced back pain, better sleep and easier labor, just to name a few. According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, expectant mommies should exercise at least 150 minutes per week. And having the best maternity workout clothes and gear is also essential, since your exercise outfits will be expanding as your belly grows (like, literally!). Check out these must-have maternity workout picks for pregnant moms, from favorite brands like Nike and retailers including Gap, Old Navy and Amazon.
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
1 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
Manduka Welcome Yoga and Pilates Mat
"During the first trimester, it is normal to be overwhelmed by the fatigue. Listen to your body and enjoy gentle practices like yoga and meditation," suggests Desi Bartlett MS CPT E-RYT, a Los Angeles-based pre- and postnatal yoga and fitness expert. “Moms who practice yoga throughout pregnancy have a sweet opportunity to bond with the baby inside.” When taking to the mat to find some inner balance, this fab, eco-friendly Manduka Welcome Yoga and Pilates Mat makes for a perfect choice. Made with a textured, slip-resistant surface for safely holding poses, it also has a nice cushion construction that can make Savasana so much sweeter!
2 of 10 Image Credits: Nordstrom
Nike Women's Zoom Pegasus 35 Turbo Running Shoe
“Look for a shoe that has great arch support and is not more than a year old. Believe it or not, athletic shoes (even unworn) have a shelf life,” says Bartlett. "Not everyone’s feet are shaped the same and footwear is very personal. Nike is great for me." For the mom on the run, these Nike Women's Zoom Pegasus 35 Turbo Running Shoes are a sure bet to give her a boost to get going. Ultra-lightweight and designed with cushioned soles, these comfortable sneakers pair well with any maternity workout clothes and will have mom stepping out in style!
3 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
Nike Dri-Fit Head Tie 2.0
“As our bodies change, it is very important for expectant moms to feel good about themselves,” says author and New York City-based yoga instructor Yuliana Kim-Grant. “If a pink headband will make her feel good, then she should get that pink headband!” This fab Nike Dri-Fit Head Tie 2.0 is sure to keep mom looking hot while working up a sweat.
4 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
U Name IT Workout Partner Burnout Tank Top
Everyone knows that exercising is always so much better with a gym buddy. Share healthy workouts with your little bun in the oven and let friends know that you've got a baby on board with this super cute, eco-friendly maternithy workout clothes like the U Name IT Workout Partner Burnout Tank Top. The fitted, racerback cotton tee is ideal for wearing during mom’s first trimester.
5 of 10 Image Credits: Gap
Maternity GapFit Medium Impact Nursing Sports Bra
A great-fitting sports bra is an essential part of a maternity workout wardrobe and is guaranteed to be mom’s biggest supporter during her daily fitness routine. But choosing the best style is what matters most. “I always recommend that my prenatal clients get soft sports bras designed for maternity that provide support and room to grow with the pregnancy,” says Samantha Lehrhoff, founder of YOUniversal Yoga in Coral Springs. Florida. “Personally, I found Gap Maternity sports bras to be a great fit.” This Maternity GapFit Medium Impact Nursing Sports Bra keeps mom comfy with a seamless shape and adjustable straps. Easy-access clasps also make it ideal for nursing.
6 of 10 Image Credits: Target
Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Crossover Panel Active Leggings
Get a leg up on your fabulous maternity fitness wardrobe with these awesome Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Crossover Panel Active Leggings. Constructed with moisture-wicking fabrics and stretch materials for comfort, these stylish maternity yoga pants fit snugly over the belly or can be folded down while still providing mom with gentle back support during exercise.
7 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
Leboha 32-ounce Wide Mouth Water Bottle Tracker
“Women should listen to their bodies and try to avoid exercising in extreme heat,” cautions Marianne Ryan. PT, OCS, a Manhattan-based physical therapist and award-winning author of Baby Bod–Turn Flab to Fab in 12 Weeks Flat. “Get an easy-to-use water bottle to prevent dehydration.” This Leboha 32-ounce Wide Mouth Water Bottle Tracker is perfect for monitoring daily water intake during pregnancy, and postpartum for breastfeeding mothers, to make sure that she stays properly hydrated. Each marked line measures how much mom should drink per hour. Bottoms up, ladies!
8 of 10 Image Credits: Old Navy
Old Navy Maternity Semi-Fitted 1/4-Zip Performance Pullover
“Dress in layered, breathable clothing; that way layers can be removed as a woman starts to feel hot,” Ryan says of choosing maternity workout clothes. This sleek Old Navy Maternity Semi-Fitted 1/4-Zip Performance Pullover is perfect for sporting at the gym or throwing on after a workout. Fair warning:This top looks so good mom might not want to take it off!
9 of 10 Image Credits: Old Navy
Old Navy Maternity Fitted Racerback Run Tank
“I see pregnant women wearing adorable clothing these days,” adds Ryan of recent maternity workout clothing style. "The trend is to show off their bellies rather than hiding it like I did when I was pregnant a bunch of years ago.” This bump-hugging Old Navy Maternity Fitted Racerback Run Tank is perfect for flaunting that growing belly while giving mom the comfort she needs with quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric and a flattering, full-coverage silhouette.
10 of 10 Image Credits: Macys
Motherhood Maternity Printed One-Piece Swimsuit
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise, especially for expectant mamas looking for a workout to ease joint pain, burn calories, improve circulation and reduce swelling. Dive in wearing this super cute Motherhood Maternity Printed One-Piece Swimsuit, and mom will be making waves at the pool in no time flat!
