The best maternity activewear for bump-friendly workouts, from M&S to Sweaty Betty

To go with the leggings above, the brand’s longline vest is a reliable pick, whatever your preferred activity during pregnancy. It features ruched sides, which stretch to accommodate your growing bump, offering a flexible fit that doesn’t feel too tight or clingy as you work out.

It’s crafted from the brand’s signature soft-touch fabric and, like the leggings, it’s lightweight, breathable and wicks away moisture well – I've worn it to F45 cardio sessions and haven’t felt sticky or uncomfortable, even when working up a sweat. It also comes in a wide range of sizes.

If you’re pregnant during the spring or summer months, investing in a decent pair of maternity cycling shorts is a smart move – there's nothing worse than feeling hot and sweaty when you’re already uncomfortable.

Enter this high-waisted design from Fabletics, which comes in 6” and 9” inch lengths, so you can choose the level of coverage that suits you best. As I’m on the shorter side at 5’2”, I opted for the 6” length and they were just right – sitting above the knee without feeling too revealing.

The design is comfortable – the fabric offers plenty of stretch while still maintaining good support during exercise – and practical, with side pockets for stashing your phone, keys and card. This is another pair I know I'll be wearing on repeat throughout pregnancy and beyond.

While this isn’t technically a maternity-specific sports bra, it still deserves a place in this round-up – it's the only bra I’ve been reaching for during my pregnancy workouts. It's adjustable from all angles to ensure a supportive fit as your body changes, plus it’s easy to get on and off (no need to wrestle it on over your head).

There’s no uncomfortable wiring digging in and it offers good support for even your more rigorous workouts, including running – if you’re still pounding the pavements during pregnancy. The breathable fabric will keep cool and comfy, and at under £30, if offers excellent value for money.

If swollen ankles are starting to make an appearance (a rite of passage, sadly), you might find yourself gravitating towards flares over classic leggings. If so, may we suggest this simple but effective pair from H&M MAMA. They’re designed with a wide leg that skims over the ankles, offering more breathing room than classic hems.

Crafted with the brand’s fast-drying, functional fabric, they’re great for a variety of workouts, while the foldover waistband supports your bump without feeling too snug. The stylish design means you can easily wear them day to day, too – even in the office with a pair of flats and a shirt. The only downside? They’re lacking pockets.

Studies show swimming is one of the best ways to stay active during pregnancy – it's low impact, helps ease swelling and still provides an effective, full-body workout. To reap the rewards, though, you’ll need a maternity swimsuit that can keep up with your growing bump.

We love this option from the experts at Speedo, which has been designed with comfort and support in mind. The four-way-stretch fabric moves with your body as it changes – and feels comfy during swims sessions – while the V-back straps allow for ease of movements.

It offers good coverage and a secure, distraction-free fit, along with light support around the bust. Whether you're doing lengths or enjoying a gentle dip, it’s more than up to the job.

These soft, comfy joggers from Amazon Essentials are perfect for gentle stretching, birth prep and chilled out days at home during pregnancy. Made from an ultra-soft lightweight fabric, they’re ideal for throwing on when you want something comfortable but not too heavy, with a relaxed, under-the-bump fit that allows for plenty of movement.

The elasticated waistband sits comfortably without digging in, the drawcord allows you to adjust the fit and there are handy pockets to store any bits and bobs.

They come in two different leg lengths – so you can find a style that works for your height and how you like your joggers to sit – and four colourways from slate to pink. Another piece you’ll keep reaching for after baby arrives.

If prenatal yoga is your preferred way to keep moving as your bump gets bigger – good on you, there are several benefits from easing aches to encouraging relaxation – then these yoga pants from BAM are the perfect companion.

Although not maternity-specific, they offer plenty of stretch to adapt to your pregnant belly, with a wide foldover waistband that sits comfortably over your bump, without feeling compressive. The gorgeous jersey fabric – which is made from a blend of moisture-wicking bamboo viscose and cotton – feels gloriously soft against the skin while still being breathable. In fact, they’re so comfy, I didn't want to take them off.

Another pair of leggings I’ve been reaching for on repeat, this Vuori design – though not maternity-specific – has plenty to shout about. Made from the brand’s ultra-stretchy BlissBlend™ fabric, they adapt effortlessly to your changing body, offering a second-skin feel that’s comfortable from the first trimester. The high-rise waistband can be worn over the bump, but I’ve personally preferred folding it under for a more relaxed fit.

Aside from everyday wear, they’re great for low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates, as well as lighter weight training sessions. Lightweight, breathable and easy to style, they’re the kind of leggings that you’ll wear again and again. I would have liked pockets, but that’s my only bugbear.

This viral onesie from Free People is better suited to lounging than working out, but it’s perfect for throwing on for walks or cosy stretching sessions. Thanks to its slouchy, oversized fit and breathable cotton fabric, it feels completely unrestrictive - which is just what you want as your body changes and comfort is the number one priority.

You can layer it over a sports bra for light workouts, or style it with a shirt or jumper for days out and about. The roomy side pockets make it genuinely practical, while the wide range of colours – from dark espresso and pistachio to stone and navy – means you’re bound to find one you like.