Navigating Pregnancy Comfortably with the Best Active Wear
Often a popular resolution in the new year is adopting more exercise into your daily routine. Particularly during pregnancy, keeping active through low-impact exercises and activities is a great way to prepare your body for labor, and it also improves mental health significantly.
When expecting, your body goes through many changes, both internally and externally, therefore it’s important to find adaptable and breathable activewear that allows movement.
With the help of pregnancy expert and experienced Doula, Kalli Chason, the team at Your Baby Club has shared insight into why comfortable maternity active-wear is so important and how to find pieces to add to your winter wardrobe.
Discussing the importance of comfortable maternity activewear, Doula Kalli Chason says:
“During pregnancy, individuals are going through immense amounts of growth in short amounts of time which makes it more important to dress in a way that is comfortable for you during exercise. Comfort differs from person to person, listen to your body and you will know if that outfit feels good for you.
“Maternity wear can provide more comfort as you stay active while your body is undergoing immense amounts of growth, but not every person finds them necessary. For first-time pregnant parents and parents with certain body types, belly growth can be a lot less than in others or subsequent pregnancies. Particularly with gym wear as it can stretch to fit changing body types.
“For this reason, some individuals might not feel the need for maternity wear. If your clothes are fitting too tight and leaving lines on your body after exercise, it might be time to make the jump into the maternity section. Check your local Buy Nothing groups and thrift stores, they commonly have great options for maternity activewear.
“Support can make a huge difference while working out during pregnancy. Finding leggings that have a tight supportive band around the belly but that are not too tight around the legs and ankles will likely be the most comfortable. While pregnant your body is releasing a hormone called relaxin, which makes all of your muscles looser and easier to injure. Having support from your clothing can help prevent injury and provide more comfort.”
1. Find the right fabrics
Pregnancy can be uncomfortable, but if you add restrictive and irritating clothing to the mix whilst exercising, it can become even more difficult. The key to finding comfort is loose, lightweight clothing that’s breathable, like lycra, polyester, and nylon. Go for clothes that are loose in structure if you are seeking comfort when walking, playing sports, or doing any low-impact exercise; so, maternity sweatpants, sports bras, and leggings with belly support.
2. Remember footwear is just as important
During pregnancy, you’re likely to experience achy, swollen feet and legs, due to weight gain and changes in hormones. Finding appropriate footwear is incredibly important when staying active throughout your pregnancy, as it can not only determine how comfortable you are, but can also support your back, ankles, and feet as they change in shape.
When shopping for new sneakers, or even taking a deep dive into your wardrobe, find a pair with a good arch and ankle support – so no flimsy dolly shoes. As your body starts to grow, you’ll likely need a shoe that can slip on and off easily, as reaching down to tie your laces will become increasingly harder. Finally, your feet are likely to swell, which means you need a shoe with room for expansion, so invest in a pair that is a size or half bigger than normal.
3. Find gym clothes you can wear post-pregnancy
Your maternity wardrobe doesn’t have to be restricted to elasticated waistbands, and maternity gym tops that you may never wear again. While some items are essential for your comfort, you can purchase items that can be worn later down the line.
A bigger sweatshirt may fit perfectly during pregnancy, but it can still be worn after your baby arrives as an oversized outer layer, which will pair perfectly with leggings. This can be done with most maternity activewear, as they are designed to stretch to fit your body comfortably.
4. Buy basics to save cash
Basic t-shirts, vests, and leggings will become your go-to picks when exercising throughout your pregnancy. They are affordable, comfortable, and go with just about anything.
Your basic activewear can double up to become your everyday go-to’s – you can throw them on for a trip to the supermarket, to meet friends and family, or for lounging around the house getting ready for your new arrival.
5. Most importantly… be comfortable and confident
Your maternity activewear doesn’t have to be bland, but they do need to be comfortable. Find pieces that match your pre-pregnancy style and make you feel confident. It’s all about finding clothes that support you during exercise while also complementing your changing body shape.
The rise in athleisure’s popularity in the world of fashion means there is an increasing amount of options for you to choose from throughout your pregnancy to make you feel confident.
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