Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings changes to your body, but it doesn’t have to mean a break from your fitness routine. While you may need to modify some of your workouts, such as avoiding certain poses that require deep twists, many types of exercise are still safe and recommended by doctors. And when it comes to running shorts when pregnant, there are plenty of flattering options that work with your changing belly and help you feel confident in the gym and out on the trails.
A great pair of maternity workout shorts can keep you comfortable and supported through multiple trimesters. Bike shorts, like this ultra-soft jersey pair from Girlfriend Collective, feature a waistband that can be folded up over your bump or pulled down under it. They also have pockets and are available in sizes XXS to 6X. Another option that’s a runner-up fave is this maternity running short from Beyond Yoga, which has a foldable panel that fits over the bump or down under it. And, like all the maternity workout clothes in our collection, it’s designed to be worn during and after pregnancy, too.
When it comes to choosing a pair of maternity running shorts, fit is critical (no one wants to wear tight-fitting clothes while working out!). You’ll want to find a pair that’s soft, stretchy and breathable so you can breathe while you’re sweating. A good pair of running shorts for pregnancy are also a great way to beat the heat in the summer and will keep you cool during your workout, especially if you tend to run hot.
You’ll also want to consider how the shorts are constructed, since that can make a big difference in how comfortable they are. Some maternity running shorts, such as these Anook Austin maternity biker shorts in black, are designed with a performance 4-way stretch fabric that’s made to expand and retract to accommodate your bump throughout pregnancy and into postpartum, too. Other maternity workout shorts, such as this Blanqi maternity crossback tank, have ruching that fits around the bump and a built-in belly support band, which helps ease pregnancy aches.
If you’re not a serious runner and just enjoy the occasional jog around your neighborhood, then this simple pair of black shorts from Ingrid & Isabel will do the trick. They have a low-rise V shape in front to sit nicely under your growing bump and come with side pockets, too.
When it comes to maternity workout clothes, you can’t forget about a good sports bra. And when it comes to pregnancy, a well-fitting sports bra is especially important because the size of your bust will increase dramatically during this time. To avoid that dreaded red ring under your breasts, you’ll need to invest in a few maternity sports bras in various sizes so you can swap them out as needed. These maternity workout bras, like this Blanqi maternity sports bra and this ASOS Design maternity sport bra, are all made to expand with your bump, so you’ll have no trouble finding a great fit throughout your pregnancy.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
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