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The Best Maternity Workout Clothes, According to Real Moms

Moms dish on their favorite maternity activewear that helped them get the most out of their pregnancy workouts.
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profile picture of Christin Perry
Updated March 21, 2023
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Your life doesn’t stop when you’re pregnant, and neither should your workouts. Once you get over the initial exhausted hump and roll into the high-energy second trimester, there are tons of excellent reasons to hit the gym or pool. But to get started, you might find you need some maternity activewear now that you’re rocking a baby bump.

This investment in yourself (and your wardrobe) is totally worth it. The US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) recommends getting in 150 minutes every week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity during pregnancy. And mega benefits—such as reduced risk of gestational diabetes, unplanned c-sections and preeclampsia, not to mention improved physical and psychological well-being—make exercise a no-brainer. Of course, you want to be comfortable and still look good (hey, we hear you). No sweat! Here are our picks for the best maternity workout clothes from fitness experts and moms alike.

Do You Really Need Maternity Workout Clothes?

If you’re like most expectant moms, much of your pregnancy is spent buying things for baby—nursery furniture, clothes, diapers and more. So you may not want to spend extra cash on maternity activewear you’ll only use for a few months. And sure, in the first trimester, you can easily get away with rolling waist bands under your belly and stretching out tees instead of investing in actual maternity activewear. But around the 20-week mark, that belly is going to start showing and such measures can become wildly uncomfortable.

Plus, to the surprise of many new moms, it’s not just for a few months of wear. “In hindsight, had I known I’d wear maternity workout clothes after delivery, I’d have spent more,” says Olivia Koszuta, a Denver mom who took spin classes twice weekly throughout her pregnancy. “I was still wearing Old Navy maternity leggings at three months out. Pants just don’t fit normally for a while. It probably took another three months for my belly to go down.”

Every pregnancy is different. With this in mind, it’s important to assess the changes your body is experiencing and choose maternity activewear that suits your individual needs and lifestyle. When in doubt, opt for maternity workout clothes designed to ease discomfort during sweat sessions—whether that means maternity sports bras and swimwear with added bust support, stretchy ruched tees and tanks for growing bellies or maternity yoga pants with over-the-belly waistbands.

The best maternity workout clothes are designed to support and flatter an expectant mom’s bump, says Melanie Darnell, a Los Angeles maternity fitness trainer and mom of three who founded Fitmomma Bootcamp. “You’ll get the extra support and length you need. Plus, feeling comfortable in your maternity workout clothes can be the confidence boost you need to get to the gym.” Koszuta agrees: “It was so nice hearing the girls in spin class say I looked cute in my fitness gear,” she says.

Good news: You don’t need to buy a ton of items or spend a fortune on maternity workout clothes—just a few key items will do the trick. Here’s a breakdown of stores to browse and types of exercise clothing you may want to consider—plus, a few favorite items to snatch up.

Best Places to Buy Maternity Workout Clothes

If you’re expecting and on the hunt for maternity activewear, it’s worth popping into a few stores to see what brands you like best. You don’t have to break the bank stuffing your closet with tons of maternity workout clothes, but a few key pieces (like an excellent sports bra and some pregnancy-friendly yoga pants) can make a dramatic difference in how comfortable you are during your workouts—and how great you feel after them. And we’d say anything that gets you to the gym a bit more often is a sound investment. Ready to start shopping? Check out five of our favorite places to buy cute maternity workout clothes that really go the distance.

  • Girlfriend Collective: This maternity workout clothing line is small but mighty. The capsule collection includes seamless leggings, bike shorts and super-stretchy sports bras. Each item is made from moisture-wicking, UPF 50+ recycled materials. Plus, the activewear comes in tons of colors and is available in sizes XXS to 6XL.
  • Kindred Bravely: This Instagram-favorite maternity and postpartum brand is known for its ultra-soft fabrics that hold their shape and mold to your body. Kindred Bravely nursing bras are a thing of legend; invest in one of the brand’s sports bras and it’ll last long after baby is born.
  • Beyond Yoga: This brand has a cult-following—and with good reason. Beyond Yoga’s signature Space Dye fabric boasts a four-way stretch, UV protection and unbeatable softness. The online store has a great range of tank tops, T-shirts, joggers and leggings to suit every type of activity.
  • Motherhood Maternity: This classic maternity brand also carries some super-cute maternity workout clothes. If you want to source all your pregnancy clothing essentials in one spot, Motherhood Maternity is your best bet.
  • Old Navy: If you’re on a tight budget (or just want to score a sporty look for less), Old Navy should be your first stop. This online store has a wide variety of affordable activewear, from compression leggings to performance tees, they have kickass pregnancy workout clothes that won’t break the bank.

Maternity Sports Bras

One major body change many pregnant people experience is a rapidly growing bust. It’s often one of the first changes to cause discomfort, resulting in that familiar red ring that surfaces below the breasts when you’re wearing a bra that’s too small. This body change makes a well-fitting pregnancy sports bra (or two!) an essential component of your maternity workout clothes collection.

As early as six weeks into pregnancy, breasts can start to increase in size. They’ll continue to grow throughout pregnancy—in fact, many women go up one to two cup sizes. If you’re well endowed to begin with, workouts (and daily activities) can quickly become uncomfortable without a maternity sports bra. In fact, one of the first moves for Calli De La Haye, a certified prenatal yoga instructor who co-founded Kalimukti Yoga, was to ditch all underwire designs and switch to a more comfy, forgiving style. Keep reading to discover some top-rated maternity sports bras.

Supportive Maternity Sports Bra

Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Sports Bra
Kindred Bravely sublime nursing sports bra
Image: Kindred Bravely
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Designed with active moms in mind, this maternity sports bra provides support and coverage as your chest grows during pregnancy and easy access for nursing after. Made from soft, moisture-wicking material, this pick is perfect for low-impact activities like yoga, hiking or running errands around town. Plus, it comes in regular and busty sizes. Bonus: Get 15 percent off sitewide with code **THEBUMP15 **.

What We Love
  • Nursing clips for convenience
  • Stretchy fabric
  • Features a pullover racerback style
Things To Consider
  • Has the potential to stretch out

Seamless Maternity Bra

Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Yoga Maternity/Nursing Bra
Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Yoga Maternity/Nursing Bra
Image: Nordstrom
Buying Options

Next up is a pick from Bravado Designs—a Best of Pregnancy award-winning brand. This maternity sports bra is underwire-free and has nursing clips for prenatal and postnatal wear. Better yet, it’s made from a super breathable fabric to keep you cool. (Because pregnancy can get pretty sweaty.)

What We Love
  • Features adjustable, convertible straps
  • With removable foam cups
  • Wire-free
Things To Consider
  • Fabric has potential to make skin itch

Ribbed Maternity Sports Bra

PinkBlush Black Vintage Wash Ribbed Maternity Sports Bra
PinkBlush Black Vintage Wash Ribbed Maternity Sports Bra
Image: PinkBlush
Buying Options

For moms looking for comfy pregnancy activewear, this maternity sports bra is a great pick. It’s made from a seamless ribbed material that won’t irritate sensitive skin, and has a beautiful vintage look. And at under $31, it’s a great pick for a mom-to-be on a budget.

What We Love
  • Made from a seamless ribbed material
  • Affordable price tag
Things To Consider
  • Cold wash only

Seamless nursing sports bra

Ingrid & Isabel Seamless Nursing Sports Bra
Seamless Maternity and Nursing Sports Bra
Image: Ingrid and Isabel
Buying Options

If you’re looking for pregnancy workout clothes that pull double duty as loungewear, this sports bra is a perfect pick. The comfy ribbed fabric, elastic waistband and easy pullover style mean it will likely see as much action hanging out at home as it will at the gym.

What We Love
  • Racerback style
  • Seamless rib fabric
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
Things To Consider
  • Some reviewers say that it doesn't provide enough coverage

Nursing Sports Bra

Cake Maternity Zest Nursing Sports Bra
Cake Maternity Zest Maternity Bra with Flexi Wire High Impact Nursing Sports Bra
Image: Cake Maternity
Buying Options

If you need extra support, this maternity sports bra minimizes bounce, reduces friction and wicks away moisture. It’s also available in sizes up to 40K, making it a great pick for curvy moms.

What We Love
  • Flexi-wire minimizes bounce and offers high-impact support
  • Super smooth material
  • Inclusive size range
Things To Consider
  • High price point
  • Some customers say the cups are too shallow for larger busts

Racerback sports bra

Sexy Mama Maternity Mesh Razorback Sports Bra
Sexy Mama Maternity Mesh Razorback Sports Bra
Image: Sexy Mama Maternity
Buying Options

Want a maternity sports bra that’s supportive and practical, yet super stylish? This design features a sporty color-block mesh design with removable pads and easy-to-use clips for nursing postpartum.

What We Love
  • Features a stylish and practical design
  • Has easy-to-use clips and removable pads
  • Ideal for all stages of pregnancy
Things To Consider
  • Only available in one color

Maternity Workout Tops

As you search for the best maternity workout clothes, keep your eyes peeled for some solid workout tops. You’re looking for a shirt made in comfortable, stretchy fabrics that won’t ride up on your belly. “You want tanks and tees that provide the flexibility for you to grow through your trimesters,” says Teri Lang Patterson, a certified fitness instructor in South Dakota and new mom.

Breathable maternity tee

GapFit Maternity Breathe T-Shirt
GapFit Maternity Workout Top
Image: Gap
Buying Options

Looking for a performance tee to keep you comfortable and dry? This maternity workout top is made from breathable jersey fabric with wicking technology, so you won’t be left feeling sticky or sweaty. It also boasts shirred sides for added belly room and flat-lock seams that won’t rub you up the wrong way.

What We Love
  • Moisture-wicking material
  • Longer cut for full coverage
  • Flat-locked seams create smooth lines and prevent chafing
Things To Consider
  • Some customers don’t find the silhouette flattering

Rib-knit maternity tank tops

Maternity UltraLite Rib-Knit Racerback Tank Top
Ecavus Three-piece Womens Maternity Tank Tops Seamless Racerback Workout Athletic Yoga Tops Pregnancy T-Shirt
Image: Amazon
Buying Options

This three-pack of simple, sleeveless tank tops is a solid option if you’re planning on ramping up your maternity workouts. They’re made from an ultra-soft, breathable fabric with ruched sides to hug your growing curves. Plus, they’re free from annoying, itchy tags that can irritate sensitive skin during pregnancy. You'll be able to wear these maternity tanks all-week-long, from morning workouts to lazy Sundays on the couch.

What We Love
  • Soft and breathable fit
  • Sleeveless racerback design
  • Affordable price point
Things To Consider
  • Has the potential to stretch out

Cotton maternity and nursing hoodie

Seraphine Navy Blue 3 in 1 Maternity Hoodie
Navy Blue 3 in 1 Maternity Hoodie
Image: Seraphine
Buying Options

If you’re searching for the best maternity workout clothes for cold weather, check out this cute hoodie. Made from a super-soft cotton blend on the outside and a cozy fleece material inside, the relaxed crossover style fits through every stage of pregnancy. Once baby is born, a zippable panel can be added to the front to provide baby with extra warmth during babywearing.

What We Love
  • Made from soft cotton and fleece for maximum comfort
  • Features a zip-in panel to cover baby
  • Easy to wear
Things To Consider
  • Not suitable for the tumble dryer

Racerback maternity tank top

Black Ruched Racerback Maternity Tank Top
Black Ruched Racerback Maternity Tank Top
Image: PinkBlush
Buying Options

The best maternity workout clothes are those that can easily transition outside that workout sesh. This tank from PinkBlush does just that, with a scoop-neck and attractive ruching along the sides. Available in three colors.

What We Love
  • V-neck silhouette
  • Soft and breathable material
  • Features ruched sides
Things To Consider
  • Should be washed on cold cycle to prevent shrinking

Stylish maternity tank top

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Bases Covered Maternity Tank
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Bases Covered Maternity Tank
Image: Beyond Yoga
Buying Options

If you want to inject some color into your maternity workout clothes, look no further than this versatile tank that comes in four colors. The sporty racerback silhouette is right on-trend and the fabric is super-soft. Wear it alone for hot and sweaty workouts or use it as a base layer in the winter months. The best bit? Beyond Yoga is a Best of Pregnancy award winner, so you know that high quality is guaranteed!

What We Love
  • Built-in bra
  • Racerback design
  • Super-soft Spacedye fabric
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold
  • High price point

Plus-size maternity T-shirt

Motherhood Maternity Plus-Size V-Neck Side Ruched Maternity Tee
Plus Size V Neck Side Ruched Maternity Tee
Image: Motherhood Maternity
Buying Options

Searching for plus-size maternity workout clothes? Motherhood Maternity has a few great options. This T-shirt comes in tons of colors, has a flattering scoop neck and ruching at the sides. Available in sizes 1X to 3X.

What We Love
  • Side-ruching
  • Relaxed fit
  • Multiple color options
Things To Consider
  • Not specifically designed for exercise

Cotton Maternity Hoodie

Adidas Essentials Cotton 3-Stripes Maternity Hoodie
Adidas Essentials Cotton 3-Stripes Maternity Hoodie
Image: Amazon
Buying Options

The best maternity workout clothes are comfy enough to wear even when you’re not exercising. This cozy French terry cloth hoodie will keep you warm whether you’re active outdoors or lounging around at home post-workout.

What We Love
  • A comfortable and relaxed fit
  • Features an adjustable drawcord
  • Made from high-quality materials
Things To Consider
  • May not be ideal for those in the later months of pregnancy

Maternity Workout Leggings and Pants

No wardrobe of maternity workout clothes is complete without a few pairs of go-to bottoms. In terms of maternity workout pants, it’s all about having an easily expandable, comfy waist that won’t distract you from your chosen exercise. The moms we spoke with all like over-the-belly style leggings and sweatpants. “You can get maternity pants with elastic around the belly, but you get to a point where even those slide off,” Koszuta says. “That won’t happen with leggings that pull over your belly,” she continues. Looking for a good pair of maternity yoga pants? Trust us, the over-the-belly style will serve you well here too.

Supportive Maternity Leggings

Blanqi Everyday Maternity Belly Support Leggings
Blanqi Everyday Maternity Support Leggings
Image: Blanqi
Buying Options

Blanqi leggings are a firm favorite at The Bump, so much so that the brand is a Best of Pregnancy award-winner. Why? This pair offer comfortable support for all three trimesters thanks to a stretchy belly panel and built-in back support. We also love the buttery-soft performance fabric and the fact that they’re seam-free.

What We Love
  • Belly support band
  • X-shaped back support
  • Made from soft and breathable materials
Things To Consider
  • The fit runs small

Maternity Joggers

H&M MAMA Joggers
MAMA Joggers
Image: H&M
Buying Options

H&M is another great place to find affordable maternity workout clothes. Case in point: These super-stylish joggers that would work well for yoga, pilates or other low-impact activities. Crafted from an organic cotton-polyester blend that’s lightweight and breathable, the joggers feature a wide jersey belly band for extra coverage. Plus, the neutral color and tapered ankles add to the cool, athletic look.

What We Love
  • Lightweight and breathable fabrics
  • Wide waist panel
  • Features side pockets
Things To Consider
  • Some find that the hips and belly band can be a bit too tight

Maternity Boot Cut Yoga Pants

Motherhood Maternity Active Secret Fit Belly Boot Cut Yoga Pants
Secret Fit Belly Boot Cut Yoga Pants
Image: Motherhood Maternity
Buying Options

If you’re looking for cute workout clothes that will fit your bump at all stages, you’ve come to the right place. These maternity yoga pants feature Motherhood’s exclusive stretch stomach panel that promises to grow with you. Plus, the flattering boot-cut style can be dressed up or down depending on your needs.

What We Love
  • Ideal for exercise and leisure
  • Suitable for all stages of pregnancy
  • Machine-washable
Things To Consider
  • Fabric is a bit on the thin side

Maternity & Postpartum Support Leggings

Kindred Bravely Louisa Maternity & Postpartum Support Leggings
Kindred Bravely Louisa Ultra High-Waisted Over The Bump Maternity/Pregnancy Leggings
Image: Amazon
Buying Options

These awesome leggings are designed to support you during both pregnancy and the postpartum stage. The ultra-high waist fully covers your bump, but if you prefer a little less compression simply fold them down to wear them as an under-bump style. Bonus: This pair is available with or without a pocket.

What We Love
  • Features a stretchy waist panel
  • Available in two distinct styles
  • Has a light-compression design
Things To Consider
  • May not be stretchy enough for the later stages of pregnancy

Affordable Maternity Crop Leggings

Old Navy Maternity Full Panel PowerSoft Crop Leggings
Old Navy Maternity Full Panel PowerSoft Crop Leggings
Image: Old Navy
Buying Options

Looking for all the features you’ll find on premium brands at half the price? Check out these maternity leggings from Old Navy. The polyester-spandex blend offers light, breathable support with a super-soft feel, while the brand’s Go Dry technology prevents moisture buildup and odor. Available in three colors with sizing from XS to XXL.

What We Love
  • Elastic full-panel waistband for comfort
  • Breathable and lightweight materials
  • Gusseted design makes it easier to move
Things To Consider
  • Not fully opaque

Maternity Legging with Pockets

Pact Maternity Cropped Pocket Legging
Pact Maternity Cropped Pocket Legging
Image: Pact
Buying Options

Petite mamas will appreciate these cool, cropped leggings from Pact. Made from breathable, organic cotton and elastane, the leggings have a stretchy, over-belly waistband for superior comfort. Plus, this pair features two side pockets to stash your phone, card or keys.

What We Love
  • Leggings hold shape through every trimester
  • Two side pockets
  • Made from breathable and organic cotton
Things To Consider
  • Some say the waistband was smaller than expected

High-Waisted maternity legging

Belly Bandit Maternity Legging
Navy Belly Bandit Bump Support Leggings
Image: PinkBlush
Buying Options

Leggings that offer belly support? Yes, please! Many reviewers indicate these supportive leggings truly do take some of the burden off your growing belly, with the brand’s patented support belly support and wonderweave technology. They can be worn over or under your bump, depending on what feels best for you. Available in black, steel or navy in sizing from small to extra-large.

What We Love
  • Soft and breathable wonderweave material
  • Can be worn over or under your bump
  • Flattering ankle length fit
Things To Consider
  • Some customers say these leggings sag at the crotch
  • Not available in a shorter length

High-Rise Leggings with Pockets

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant with Pockets
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 25 inch
Image: Courtesy Lululemon
Buying Options

Okay, so technically, this pair of leggings is not designed for pregnancy—but our in-house team of experts (aka The Bump editors) can confirm that this pair will do the trick through all three trimesters and beyond. The moisture-wicking fabric features Lycra for added stretch, a high over-belly waistband and side pockets.

What We Love
  • Light and breathable design
  • Features side drop-in pockets
  • Ideal for low-impact workouts
Things To Consider
  • Not designed for pregnancy
  • High price point

Maternity Workout Shorts

Why not add a pair of maternity athletic shorts to the mix? Shorts are a great option for the summer months or for women that tend to run hot during sweaty gym sessions. From high-performance running shorts to trendy biker styles, here you’ll find some killer options to add to your pregnancy workout clothes collection.

Maternity Running Shorts

Maternity GapFit Wide Waistband 3.5 Inch Running Shorts
Maternity GapFit Wide Waistband 3.5 Inch Running Shorts
Image: Gap
Buying Options

On the hunt for maternity athletic shorts? These breathable shorts have stretchy, moisture-wicking tech fabric, to thoughtfully move with you during yoga, your run or any activity in between. Plus, the wide elastic waistband sits just below the belly for added comfort.

What We Love
  • Made from smooth and breathable fabrics
  • Wide and elasticized waistband
Things To Consider
  • Sizing runs large

Maternity Bike Short

Storq Signature Bike Shorts
Signature Bike Shorts
Image: Storq
Buying Options

Bike shorts are totally trending, and this sporty pair has an over-belly waistband that can be folded up or down. Plus, the silky-soft jersey fabric hugs your curves without feeling too restrictive. Pair them with an oversized sweatshirt for a look that works at the gym and on the go. Available in petite and plus-sizes.

What We Love
  • Wide double fabric waist panel
  • Silky spandex-jersey mix fabric
  • Inclusive size options
Things To Consider
  • Fabric is not totally opaque on everyone

Plus-size Maternity Bike Shorts

Torrid Black Maternity Bike Short
9 Inch Maternity Premium Bike Short
Image: Torrid
Buying Options

Who says curvy moms can’t wear bike shorts? Not us. This super-versatile pair from Torrid offers gentle support thanks to a stretched waistband and a ruched side. Plus, the shorts are designed to prevent chafing and come in sizes 00 to 6X. What’s not to love?

What We Love
  • Features a stretch waistband
  • Designed to prevent chafing
  • Affordable price point
Things To Consider
  • Fabric may shrink in the dryer

Maternity Sweatshorts

H&M MAMA Sweatshorts
MAMA Sweatshorts
Image: H&M
Buying Options

And we’d be remiss not to include H&M maternity workout shorts, considering how much pregnant mamas love the affordable brand. This pair is made from a lightweight cotton blend that's perfect for lounging or moving. Plus, it features a wide jersey panel and drawstring waistband.

What We Love
  • Side pockets
  • Available in three colors
  • Lightweight cotton blend
Things To Consider
  • Sizes runs small
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