If you're anything like I am, you are continuing a normal routine of eating healthy, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of exercise while you're pregnant. I continued my regular yoga practice up until my eighth month of pregnancy. During the last month or two, my yoga classes became a little too quick and uncomfortable, so I continued a steady workout that fit my new needs 4-5 times a week. Our little bundle of joy is due for delivery this week and I still do the elliptical machine for about 45 minutes in the early mornings. Everyone has a different experience with pregnancy and its relationship to exercise, but here are some tips on how I stayed active during pregnancy.
Tips To Staying Active During Pregnancy
- Know it's going to take 2-3 times the normal effort to get out of bed and get to the gym, studio, etc. Do it anyway. You will have more energy and it will help with your moods.
- Listen to your body and find out what kind of exercise works for you. Towards the end, walking actually hurt my body and caused me to swell. Therefore, when I needed to get outside - riding my bike was a great alternative.
- Workout, swim, practice, spin, whatever. But when it's over, take a minute to really appreciate yourself and the effort you made for you and your new baby.
- Unless there's a medical/health issue, try not to take too many days off in a row. In my experience, routine was KEY and the longer breaks I took, the harder it was to get back.
- Get plenty of rest, water, and eat protein and nutrient rich foods. I tried to eat as many fruits and vegetables as I could. You WILL feel the difference.
- Get sunlight on your skin everyday (avoid 10am -2pm). Natural sunlight will help your energy levels during the day and also help you sleep better at night.
Top 5 Essentials for Maternity Activewear
In the beginning of my pregnancy, I was able to wear my non-maternity clothes for a little while. My longest lululemon tanks became my new best friend. But with continuing a regular workout routine, the embarrassment of wearing the same two tops over and over again began to set in. With many more months to go in my pregnancy, I searched far and wide for better options. I soon realized finding good maternity activewear was extremely difficult! But, with some help from Destination Maternity, I did find amazing pieces . . . Some of which I can even wear post-pregnancy!
1. Beyond the Bump By Beyond Yoga: Scoop Neck Ruched Maternity Tank Top
This maternity tank features flattering detail that is ideal for every mommy to be. The gathered side seam and wide, racerback straps allow you to stay cool and comfortable, while the supplex fabric is possibly the softest material I have ever felt! Not only is this tank comfortable for yoga, but having the supported built-in bra will be a life saver for any activity (including sleep) during your third trimester . . . I have three different colors and I alternate the tops with a black, active capri pant.
For every Beyond the Bump item purchased, the company makes a contribution to expectant moms in need. See more about Moms for Moms
2. Motherhood Maternity: Cap Sleeve Side Ruched Keyhole Back Active Maternity Tee
This maternity tee features a space dye pattern (mirroring the performance active trend), while the fast drying materials and key hole back keep you cool and calm. The stretchy material and side ruching allow the shirt to grow with you, making it a perfect tee for the third trimester. Aside from the gym or studio, it's also a great option away from the gym. These tees became my favorite go-to for running errands and meeting friends for coffee, casual meals, etc. I love the coral color, but it also comes in gray which is just as flattering. If you live in a cooler climate, checkout the long sleeve open back active maternity pullover by Motherhood, also pictured here!
3. Beyond the Bump By Beyond Yoga: Maternity Crop Leggings
Like I said, I just can't get enough of how much I love Beyond the Bump maternity gear. These leggings are no exception and will carry you through your entire pregnancy (even post-pregnancy) as a fashion forward mom-to-be. With an array of beautiful colors to choose from, the shirred wide waistband fits snugly over your belly or sits comfortably below. I alternated my crop pant in the different colors and paired each one with the black, active racerback tank (by BeMaternity®) pictured below.
4. Ingrid & Isabel: Active Capri Pant with Crossover Panel
This active capri pant by Ingrid & Isabel is the perfect, active pant that supports you as you grow. The uniquely engineered Crossover Panel™ (can wear above or below the bump) paired with performance fabric offers a supreme comfort and a flattering fit. You can really feel the support of these pants which makes them the best option for real performance . . . no more slipping, digging or riding up! Such a great basic pant can be paired with any active tank or casual top.
5. BeMaternity® by Ingrid & Isabel® Active Racerback Tank Black
This was my very first maternity top and I still wear it today! Basic black allows you to pair it with any of the super trendy, "loud" pants without looking outrageously mixed and matched. BeMaternity® is designed by Ingrid & Isabel® but available at Target at a slightly lower price point. Target also carries their active capri and long pant. I suggest all three. You won't regret having a basic active tank, capri pant, and long pant to pair with any other Maternity active or casual wear!
Check out our Prenatal Yoga Flow & Meditation
Working out during pregnancy is a very personal choice and there are situations where women are unable to. If that's you, don't beat yourself up about it. Do what you can. There are stretches you can do, chair yoga, meditations, etc.
Always consult your physician before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy.
Shop This Post
Beyond the Bump (By Beyond Yoga): Scoop Neck Ruched Maternity Tank Top | Motherhood Maternity: Cap Sleeve Side Ruched Keyhole Back Active Maternity Tee | Motherhood Maternity: Long Sleeve Open Back Active Maternity Pullover | Beyond the Bump (By Beyond Yoga): Maternity Crop Leggings | Ingrid & Isabel: Active Capri Pant with Crossover Panel | BeMaternity® by Ingrid & Isabel® Active Racerback Tank Black
Photography: Riso Studio
Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Destination Maternity. This means Coreen may have received product and/or payment in exchange for promoting. That being said, all thoughts and opinions of the products are my own.
