Reverse lunges, yoga poses, family walks, and other light- to medium-impact exercises are great to do during pregnancy [1] (and, honestly, at all other times). But finding the right activewear [2] while carrying around a huge baby bump can feel impossible, trust me: I've been there. The key is to find workout shorts that are comfortable, breathable, and stretchy — whether they are designed to fit snugly over your growing stomach [3] or to roll underneath. From black bike shorts to hot-pink running shorts or stretchy lounge shorts, there's something out there for every pregnant person's style and price point. And if you decide to just get these to make it easier to relax and run to the bathroom constantly to pee, well, that's fine, too!
ASOS Design Maternity Sweat Short in Organic Cotton
Go for a walk or run errands in the ASOS Design Maternity Sweat Short in Organic Cotton [4] ($19). The ultrasoft sweatshirt fabric is made to tie below your stomach for all-day comfort.
PinkBlush Light Pink Ruched Side Maternity Lounge Shorts
Lounge shorts are great for working out in, and the PinkBlush Light Pink Ruched Side Maternity Shorts [5] ($38) are made with superstretchy fabric, an elastic waistband, and ruched sides to fit snugly and comfortably around the bump. You'll definitely be reaching for these after you have your baby, too.
Waverleigh Black Maternity Biker Short
Biker shorts were practically made for pregnant women, as they are essentially just shorter leggings with a supportive, stretchy waistband. The to-the-knee Waverleigh Black Maternity Biker Short [6] ($42) will make it easy to work out without chafing.
Austin Shorts Char
The Austin Shorts Char [7] ($58) are made with a four-way stretch material that is designed to expand throughout your pregnancy and retract for postpartum wear as well. Yeah, you're going to want one of these in every colour.
Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Easy Cuffed Shorts
Next time you are planning a hike (or a walk through Target, it counts!), then slip on these Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Easy Cuffed Shorts [8] ($58) first. They are black with side pockets and an elastic waist that fits comfortably under your belly.
Maternity GapFit 3.5" Running Shorts
OK, so unless you were a serious runner before, running may not be in the cards for you while you're pregnant. But you can still enjoy working out (and jogging!) in the Maternity GapFit 3.5" Running Shorts [9] ($37, originally $50).
Maternity GapFit Full Panel Hike Shorts
Choose from olive green, dark blue, and hot pink in these Maternity GapGit Full Panel Hike Shorts [10] ($30, originally $50). They have a stretchy upper panel that pulls up snugly over your entire stomach.
Maternity a:glow Full Belly Panel Running Shorts
These Maternity a:glow Full Belly Panel Running Shorts [11] ($25, originally $30) look like your regular workout shorts — but they have a hidden full-belly panel that stretches to just under your bust. No annoying pants falling down here!
UHUSE Maacie Women Maternity Over-the-Belly Shorts
Adjust these UHUSE Maacie Women Maternity Over-the-Belly Shorts [12] ($25) with an inside button and drawstring waist, so you can keep wearing them as your stomach changes. They feature a stretchy biker-short material on the base layer, with a shorter top layer available in fun colours.
Secret Fit Belly Poplin Maternity Shorts
Cotton and spandex work together to make the Secret Fit Belly Poplin Maternity Shorts [13] ($25) extra comfortable during pregnancy. They are lightweight with plenty of pockets to stash your keys and phone when you walk around the neighbourhood.
Foucome Women's Maternity Over-the-Belly Active Lounge Comfy Yoga Short
The best part about these over-the-bump, stretchy bike shorts isn't their four-way stretch and sleek comfort — it's the fact that they have side pockets that hold your phone. Yes, the Foucome Women's Maternity Over-the-Belly Active Lounge Comfy Yoga Short [14] ($19) is great for doing yoga and for hanging out, leaving you feeling zen afterward.
Foucome Women's Maternity Shorts
Choose your favourite colour — light pink, green, grey, black, or orange — then order your usual prepregnancy size in the Foucome Women's Maternity Shorts [15] ($18). They have a low-rise V shape in front to fit nicely under your stomach while you're exercising.
Tremour Maternity Shorts
The Tremour Maternity Shorts [16] ($13, originally $16) are black with white stripes on the sides. They are made with a soft cotton material and have a low elastic waistband, designed for cardio and weight training (or just running errands).
Maacie Maternity Shorts
Maternity clothes don't have to be boring. These Maacie Maternity Shorts [17] ($17, originally $20) come in a camo pattern, with a stretchy grey panel that goes over your stomach.
Indero Elastic Band Waist Maternity Shorts
Enjoy your next sweat sesh in style with the Indero Elastic Band Waist Maternity Shorts [18] ($12). These are black with a pink floral pattern, but you can also order them in sunshine yellow; pastel tie-dye; black, white, and red striped; and more. There's something cute for every personality!