Question:

There are a few options in maternity exercise wear that won't cost you a fortune. First of all, many women report that they much prefer the comfort of a well worn cotton t-shirt to work out in. So before you go out and look for a maternity t-shirt, be sure to raid your husband's closet and drawers. Or pick up a few XXL's in your local supermarket. They should take you through most of your nine months. You will have to buy maternity bottoms, though. Bike shorts, leggings, or unitards are the most common. A unitard, short or ankle length, is great because of the long line it creates, without extra elastic bands cutting into your thighs, waist, or bust. Fit Maternity and Beyond http://www.fitmaternity.com carries a cotton/lycra maternity/postnatal unitard, with a lined bra, that you can wear after your pregnancy too, before you are able to regain your prepregnancy shape. If you are more of a bike short or legging person, there are many waistbands to choose from - a classic, over the belly band, the OK band that falls under your belly for extra support and less binding across your belly, found at Japanese Weekend http://www.japaneseweekend.com, or a 4" non-elastic waistband, which can be found in the Belly Basics line (call 1-800-4-9-MONTHS for a catalog). Whichever bottom you prefer, if you work out several times a week, you will probably need two: one to wear while one is in the wash. And whatever your preference, be sure to choose the proper support for your own body in your bra, and for your growing belly, as well as a nice breathable, stretchy fabric, such as quality cotton/spandex. Happy exercising!