The Best Maternity Workout Gear

It is no secret that I believe staying active has helped me maintain my sanity during the past 32 weeks of pregnancy. From the very beginning, it was my goal to stay healthy and active throughout pregnancy while still listening to my body. While I realized that I pushed my body too hard by running through week 28, now that I’ve taken a break from running, I feel terrific.   In fact, this morning during our Orangetheory workout, Bo told me that I look like I’ve actually built muscle over the past few months.  Since taking a break from running, I’ve maintained a great workout routine that has ensured I get my heart rate up and break a sweat six days a week through long power walks, swimming, prenatal pilates, Orangetheory, Xtend Barre and prenatal yoga.

Best Maternity Workout Gear

I’ve enjoyed the many benefits of working out during pregnancy including:

  • Lowered my risk of gestational diabetes
  • Reducing aches and pains
  • No constipation
  • Minimal swelling which didn’t begin until Week 31
  • Minimal weight gain
  • Increase my stamina and strength for labor
  • Endorphins
  • Better sleep

However, the one thing that I didn’t enjoy about working out during pregnancy was finding clothes that fit well and flattered my growing figure. While I was able to wear most of the workout clothes through the first trimester, as soon as I started to pop in the second trimester, I started feeling like a stuffed sausage.  In addition, as my belly grew each week, I started to feel some aches and pains after workouts from the extra weight.  I knew it was time to invest in some maternity workout clothes but I didn’t know where to shop. I actually reached out to a few friends as many posts I found included links to brands that no longer sell maternity clothing, such as Athleta. The reviews on sites like Gap and Target had VERY mixed reviews which made me fearful of the quality or fit.

Luckily, at this same time, the team at Mumberry Fit reached out to me offering to send me one piece of their gear as well as provide a discount code for other items I may want to purchase as part of their Fit Mom Squad.

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Similar to the sigh of relief I expressed the first time I slipped on a pair of maternity jeans, this workout gear made me feel comfortable and confident while working out. It is hands down the best maternity workout gear that I have tried! Since the clothing is made for pregnant women and takes into account their needs during this time of their life.  Since it was designed by pregnant women, each of the pieces is flattering and sweat-wicking since pregnant women tend to get hot faster. But, the biggest thing that separates Mumberry from any other maternity workout clothing is the Mumband. The Mumband is a support band that is built into each Mumberry item. It features elastic and compression that supports and secures your stomach while providing much-needed support for your lower back.  Since their clothing is meant to grow with you throughout pregnancy, the band can be worn either expanded, across the belly during later pregnancy months, or rolled down during the first trimester or after delivery when the added support isn’t needed.

The Mumband<sup>®</sup> belly support by Mumberry

Since discovering Mumberry, I’ve tested the following three items, each of which I’ve loved and wear on a regular basis.

Mumberry Maternity Active Wear

  • Ease Maternity Yoga Pant with Mumband Support –  After wearing the capris for six weeks, I was looking for a longer pant version to wear for errands, yoga, and even while working from home. The “buttery” soft fabric makes me forget I’m wearing them while the Mumband support makes sure that my back and stomach are supported even when I’m sitting at my home office desk working. They also feature a back zipper pocket, perfect for storing keys or even my iPhone during errands and workouts. My only request is that they feature a longer length for tall women like myself as these aren’t quite as long as I’d like.
  • Flourish Maternity Tank with Mumband Support –  I fell head over heels for this tank as soon as I put it on back in February. The built in sports bra meant that I had one less thing to worry about when I was getting ready in the morning and the high impact support allowed me to run in it without issues. I love that the bra cups can serve as nursing pads after Baby Girl Diamond is born and for now, they provide some added shape. The empire waist is very flattering and has provided plenty of room for growth. Of course, just like every other piece of Mumberry activewear, the back and belly support provides my back and stomach with the compression and lift needed to keep workouts comfortable.  I love this tank SO much that I actually just ordered the black one today to enjoy throughout the rest of pregnancy and beyond.
  • Move Maternity Active Capris with Mumband Support –  These capris fit wonderfully and the soft, thick fabric ensures that there are no surprises when I flow through prenatal yoga class as the material is definitely NOT see through. The built in Mumband fits perfectly over my stomach now that I’m 32 weeks and before this, I was able to adjust it to fit accordingly. I love that the capris also feature a side pocket, perfect for storing my keys, phone or credit card during a long, power walk.

Want to try Mumberry for yourself? Right now you can use the code MEGASALE30 to receive 30% off everything sitewide!

Thank you to Mumberry for sending me a piece of your clothing to try as well as providing a discount code for me to use on additional products. As always, all opinions are my own.

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Instagram Fashion: April 2016

Insta Fashion April“Where can I buy that shirt? Who makes those shoes? Those tights are awesome, who makes them?” 

It’s time for this month’s edition of Instagram Fashion workout gear round up! This month I mixed things up a bit by sharing items beyond workout gear. April’s weather was far different than I expected – chilly and rainy, which therefore limited the amount of fun, new workout gear I could wear. The forecast for the next few days is warm and sunny so I’m sure that May will bring the beginning of Summer’s heat and humidity.

  1. An athleisure moto jacket that combines fashion with the technical details you’d expect from an athletic brand sounds too good to be true, right? This New Balance Shadow jacket is a favorite of mine as I dash home after a sweaty workout since it’s breathable and made of sweat-wicking material. Anytime I wear the moto jacket people are in shock when they hear it is New Balance.
  2. Is there a more fun combination than stripes and pom-pom details on a shirt? I love pairing this navy and white striped top with jeans or white shorts for a casual, yet fun weekend look. Since buying it last month I’ve worn it five times AND bought it for two friends. It’s on super sale right now, so snag it before they sell out.
  3. I’ve worn this outfit combination a few times this month as it’s perfect for the transitional weather. The Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity tights are lightweight while still providing compression and fun details, while the Brooks Ghost tank is so light I forget I’m wearing it. While I’ll probably not use the tights for Summer workouts, this tank will be a staple for the next few months as I run through the heat and humidity.
  4. I wore this same outfit on three different flights this month as it is comfortable and keeps me warm during chilly flights. The Patagonia Nano Puff  is compact and lightweight so you can easily stuff it into your suitcase if you don’t need it.  Available in 30 different color combination, the Brooks Chariot Heritage shoe is a great everyday shoe that provides great foot support while still being fun and colorful. Last but not least, the Timex Ironman Sleek 150 is a great update to their classic sports watch, allowing me to keep track of time and my workouts with a pop of neon.
  5. There is no question about it, the Brooks LSD Running Jacket was my single favorite item of clothing in April! It’s available in 7 different colors but I love pairing the neon yellow with solid crops or shorts for wet or windy runs.
  6. I wore this vibrant, flattering Jill Stuart dress to a beach wedding down in Avalon last month and loved it so much that I was tempted to buy it after my great Rent the Runway experience. The fun open back and high neck flattered my shoulders and back, two areas I love to highlight.
  7. As soon as I saw this tank in Target I knew I had to buy it! This fun, flowy and inspirational muscle tank has been the perfect top for barre classes and HIIT classes alike since it has side vents and is lightweight.
  8. I’ve owned this Athleta bikini (top and bottom) for four years and it is constantly my favorite for everything from laying out to riding the waves.  The halter top is adjustable and has removable cups – making it a great option for those of us who want just a little bit of padding.

Your turn: What was your favorite item of clothing last month? 

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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Instagram Fashion: March 2016

Insta Fashion March

 

“Where can I buy that shirt? Who makes those shoes? Those tights are awesome, who makes them?” 

It’s time for this month’s edition of Instagram Fashion workout gear round up! Since so many of you enjoyed last month’s first Insta-Fashion post, inspired by Jenna’s monthly Instagram fashion round up, I wanted to keep things going by making this a monthly post. The weather in March was almost always a little chilly, therefore causing me to repeat a lot more outfits than usual for my outdoor workouts. Even though I’m not excited for the heat and humidity that comes with Summer, I am looking forward to breaking out the shorts and tank tops.

  1. There is no better cure for the Sunday blues than fresh air, a great run and neon workout gear! I’m wearing Brooks head to toe including these kicks, this long sleeve running shirt and these crops. How fun is this pink and green neon watch? It’s part of the new Timex Ironman Colors collection!
  2. New gear can make any run feel faster, right? This speed workout in Prospect Park was fueled by neon kicks, these awesome, new tight stuff crops and an old favorite top.
  3. This beachy look included a lightweight aqua top, these tights and my new favorite sunglasses. Seriously, if you’re looking for fun sunglasses for Summer, check out Vira Sun!
  4. Even though the half marathon didn’t go as planned, my running attire was perfect for the blustery, chilly morning! I ran in this Nike top, these tights, these shoes and this bra.
  5. It was an awesome feeling to finish the first shorts run of the season! I’ve had these shorts (similar here) for years and always receive compliments on their vibrant colors. I paired the shorts with my Nike Berlin Marathon top for one very bright Friday morning run outfit.
  6. Spring running is all about layers that will keep you warm without over heating. When Ashley and I headed out for a 10-mile training run in Central Park the sun was shining but the breezy temp still was in the 30s. I paired my oldest pair of running tights with this Brooks vest and turtleneck to ensure I wasn’t freezing the entire time. Luckily the turtleneck is lighter than most Under Armour gear, making it perfect for warmer Winter weather or cooler Spring days.
  7. I’ve worn this Sweaty Betty combo at least once a week over the past few weeks as it’s perfect for the windy, cool weather we’ve had in New York City. The pants have vents behind the knees which allow them to breathe and the top is flattering and bright, aka perfect.  You can use code SB16RE03AC07 to get 20% off and free shipping on any Sweaty Betty order this week!
  8. This picture is from late October when I shot photos for the blog with the talented Nick Ortega. As soon as I posted this snap I immediately regretted chopping my hair. Also, it should be noted, that five months later this is still a favorite outfit choice for HIIT workouts as this Nike tank (sold out but similar found here) breathes and is the perfect length to be tied back, the tights are funky but flattering and the bra doesn’t let anything bounce around.

Due to lots of travel in April, I have no doubt that there will be a few tank tops and shorts in next months round-up!

Your turn: What was your favorite look last month? What is your favorite piece of workout gear right now?  

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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