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    We Asked A Yoga Instructor For The Best Back Stretches To Tackle Upper And Lower Back Pain

    Back pain? Join the club. Per the KZN Department of Health, some 30 to 40% of South Africans are affected by back pain at some point in their life. Back stretches help, so heed these tips from yogis for the best back stretches to ease out niggles and get that aah-inducing feeling that relieves it all.

    So what causes back pain?

    Back pain is caused by several conditions: arthritis that affects the lower back and spinal cord, osteoporosis (your spine’s vertebrae become brittle), or even muscle and ligament strain caused by repeatedly lifting heavy objects.

    What’s more, sitting at a desk all day causes back pain to intensify. According to UCLA Health, “sitting in a slouched position can overstretch the spinal ligaments and strain the spinal discs”, leading to prolonged pain. Over time, these pains can be intensified. Got a bad posture? You can thank your slumped shoulders for back pain, too. Slumping or slouching loads your back in a way isn’t supported by your spinal structure. The offshoot? “The intricate network of muscles, discs, and joints in your back tend to be pushed beyond their tolerable limit, causing pain,” according to Spine Health.

    The power of back stretches

    Doing back stretches regularly can elongate the back, reduce the stiffness in the muscles supporting the back and improve the range of motion and overall mobility. Also, it could help you maintain a good posture, since the muscles are stretched out and are able to better support a good standing or sitting posture.

    Yoga instructor Amy Hopkins weighed in on a few back stretches that can help with your back pain. Yoga is a popular workout for your rest days or for when you want to stretch or strengthen your muscles. Do these moves in your own flow every day and feel your back unwind.

    Back stretch gear

    These tools can elevate your stretching routine and deliver those aahs.

    Use a foam roller over your back to get some deep tissue massage going.

    Prop a yoga block under your back to release tension and relax your back muscles.

    A yoga mat delivers comfort and helps with slipping while you stretch things out.

    READ MORE: A 4-Week Home Workout Plan To Get Fit And Strong AF

    Get started…

    Start by releasing tension along the spine with a series of Cat and Cow postures. Begin in a tabletop position, hands beneath shoulders, knees beneath hips, on a mat or carpeted surface, fingers spread wide, tops of feet pressed into the mat. Do this slowly, five times each move for a total of 10 long breaths. These stretches bring flexibility into the spine and are great for stretching the back, hips and abdomen. They’re good for relieving lower back pain and sciatica (lower back into hips and butt).

    The Cow Posture

    Inhale as you lift your forehead and eyes to gaze up towards the ceiling.

    Drop the belly as you curl your spine, as if you have a Pilates ball balancing on your back.

    Actively tilting your tailbone upwards will help create the curve.

    The Cat Posture

    Exhale as you round the spine (imagine the ball is beneath you now) and suck your belly button into your spine.

    Press your hands into the mat, creating a lift in your shoulders.

    Drop your head and gaze towards your belly button.

    Actively tip your pelvis forward.

    Come back to a neutral tabletop position to move into the next pose.

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Back stretches for the upper back

    Child’s Pose With Side Stretch

    From tabletop position, bring your toes together and spread your knees so that each knee is at the edge of the mat.

    Fold forward over your lap and let your belly hang softly between your thighs, arms stretched out in front of you.

    Actively try reach your bum to meet your heels. This elongates the spine. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Walk your left hand over to just outside the left side of the mat. Place your right hand on top of your left, so you really stretch out the right side of the back and shoulders. Hold for five to 10 breaths.

    Move your hands back through the centre, then over to the right side, placing the right hand outside the right side of the mat.

    Place your left hand on top of the right, so you feel a nice stretch along the left side of the back and shoulders. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Thread The Needle Pose (good for the whole back)

    From tabletop position, inhale to lift your right hand up towards the ceiling; as you exhale, thread the needle: bring the right hand and arm through the ‘hole’ you create on the left side with your left arm and left thigh.

    Bring the arm all the way through so you’re lying on your right shoulder and your right cheek and temple are on the mat. Extend the left hand out in front of you so your arms form perpendicular lines. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Walk your left hand back to underneath the left shoulder; inhale as you push up through the left hand, lifting your right hand back up towards the ceiling. Exhale to place the right hand back on the mat, so you’re in a neutral tabletop position.

    Repeat on the other side, starting by inhaling as you lift your left hand towards the sky, and then thread the needle on the other side. Stay here for five to 10 breaths, then come back to tabletop position.

    READ MORE: LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To Why And When To Do It

    Back stretches for the lower back

    Supine Twist

    Lie on your back, bringing your arms into a T-shape.

    Bring your knees in towards your chest, then slowly release both knees over to the right-hand side.

    Rest your head either facing upwards or looking over your left shoulder.

    Keep both shoulders on the mat and try to keep your knees pressed together. If your top leg lifts up, you can fold a towel and place it between your knees (or use a yoga block).

    Stay here for five to 10 slow breaths. Bring your knees back up to centre and then over to the opposite side. Repeat.

    Sphinx Pose

    Hopkins says that because we spend so much time sitting, our lower backs can take a lot of strain. The Sphinx Pose is a counter-pose to sitting and promotes the natural curvature of the spine, relieving back pain.

    Start by lying on your stomach. Feet hip-width apart and with your forearms on the mat, bring your elbows to rest directly beneath your shoulders.

    Be mindful of the pressure on your lower back – if this is too painful, you can shift your elbows slightly forward.

    Hold the pose to five to 10 slow breaths. Release by lying on your belly, right cheek to the mat.

    You can then move into Child’s Pose to finish off.

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    in diet and nutrition

    11 Avo Toast Recipes That’ll Fill You Up For Less Than 350 Calories

    Is there anything more satisfying than avocado toast? These 11 variations—crafted by the Rodale Test Kitchen—will tantalise your tastebuds while packing in plenty of nutrients (avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats). Whether you’re craving something salty or sweet, there’s an option that’ll please every palate.

    1. Cucumber-Dill

    Top a slice of multigrain grain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced, 1/4 cup cucumber slices and 1 Tbsp fresh chopped dill. Serves 1.

    Nutrition information (per serving): 257 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 4g sugar, 12g fat, 1.5g sat fat, 156mg sodium

    2. Elvis

    Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, top with 1/4 cup sliced banana and 1 Tbsp crushed peanuts. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 257 calories, 8g protein, 30g carbs, 8g fibre, 7g sugar, 14g fat, 2g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    3. Strawberry-Mint

    Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, then top with 2 sliced strawberries and a few thinly sliced mint leaves. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 170 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 9g fat, 1g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    READ MORE: You Can Whip Up These High-Protein Bagels For Half The Calories Fast

    4. Everything Bagel

    Slather a piece of multigrain toast with 2 Tbsp cream cheese, then top with 1/4 cup cubed avocado and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp each poppy seeds and toasted sesame seeds. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 287 calories, 7g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 21g fat, 7g sat fat, 247mg sodium

    5. Lox & Eggs

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 sliced hard-boiled egg and 28g flaked smoked salmon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 334 calories kilojoules, 29g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 3g sugar, 17g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 239mg sodium

    6. Nicoise Salad

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1/2 a can of drained tuna in water, flaked. Sprinkle with 1 tsp drained capers and the juice from 1/4 lemon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 223 calories, 18g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 2g sugar,9 g fat, 1g sat fat, 446mg sodium

    READ MORE: These Flax Energy Bites Will Keep You Fuelled Until Your Next Meal

    7. Bruschetta

    Top 1 slice multigrain toast with 1/4 cup diced tomato, 1 Tbsp diced red onion and 1/4 avocado, diced. Drizzle with 2 tsp balsamic vinegar. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 168 calories, 5g protein, 22g carbs, 6g fibre, 5g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 158mg sodium

    8. Pomegranate-Almond

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 Tbsp sliced toasted almonds and 1 Tbsp pomegranate seeds. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 189 calories, 6g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 10g fat, 1g sat fat, 153mg sodium

    9. Goat Cheese-Pecan

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 14g crumbled goat cheese and 1 Tbsp chopped toasted pecans. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 231 calories, 8g protein, 19g carbs, 6g fibre, 3g sugar, 15g fat, 3g sat fat, 205mg sodium

    READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    10. Apple Crisp

    Shingle slices from 1/4 red apple and 1/4 avocado over 1 slice multigrain toast. Drizzle with 2 tsp honey and sprinkle with pinch of cinnamon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 213 calories, 5g protein, 36g carbs, 6g fibre, 18g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    11. Breakfast “Sandwich”

    Top a slice of multigrain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced. Add a slice of bacon and a fried egg. Drizzle with 1 tsp of sriracha (or more to taste). Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 292 calories, 17g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 16g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 582mg sodium

    READ MORE: Avocado Is One Of The Most Versatile Fruits You Can Cook With

    This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

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    7 Best Lower Back Stretches To Ease Aches And Pain

    There’s nothing more satisfying than finding that ahhh-inducing stretch when you have a tight and achy back — and nothing more maddening than not being able to hit that spot. But doing the best lower back stretches for yourself is important – especially when we sit at a desk all day, or even if we’re on our feet.

    Lower back pain is near-universal — in fact, about 80 percent of people experience it at one point or another, according to the American Chiropractic Association. “Where the spine meets the pelvis is kind of a crash site,” says Patrick Donovan, owner of Heather Lane Physical Therapy.

    Why you should be doing back stretches

    It’s little wonder that this area is a pain point for so many seeing as how the daily habits that commonly cause lower back issues are the ones you likely do often: spending hours hunched over a computer, phone, or steering wheel, which all cause the muscles in the front of your pelvic area to shorten and tighten, too. When the hip flexor muscles are contracted in a seated position, those muscle fibres start to shorten, pulling the pelvis forward and pushing the lower back out of alignment. Translation: weaker — and achier — back muscles.

    You’re probably getting the picture that the more time you spend sitting, the more likely you are to experience lower back pain, but it’s not like you can just stop working a desk job or driving your car. Being mindful of your posture and standing up regularly can help you prevent lower back…but what if you’re already hurting? Stretches can definitely help.

    A quick disclaimer: If you’re experiencing extreme pain or pain that radiates down your leg, talk to a doctor or physical therapist to make sure there’s nothing serious going on — and do that before trying out the stretches below, says Donovan.

    If it’s just everyday aches and pains, here are the 7 best lower back stretches to do at home, ASAP.

    How to: Start in a kneeling position, with shins flat on the ground, butt on heels, knees slightly wider than torso and hands in lap. Walk arms forward to straight on the floor, lower stomach down onto thighs and rest forehead on the floor. Hold for at least 30 seconds.

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Sphinx Pose

    How to: Start by lying on the stomach with legs extended, elbows bent, upper arms close to ribs and hands planted on either side of the rib cage. Lift chest and walk hands forward so forearms rest on the floor parallel to each other, with elbows beneath shoulders. Press forearms and hands into the floor and tuck tailbone in to engage lower abdominals and support the spine. Lengthen from tailbone through crown of head.

    Hold for at least 30 seconds.

    Thread the Needle

    How to: Start on all fours. Slide the right hand along the floor behind the left wrist until the shoulder is on the floor. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Reverse movement and lift right arm into the air, twisting to gaze up. Repeat on the other side.

    Low Lunge Twist

    How to: Start in a low lunge with the left foot forward between hands and the right leg extended straight back. Draw the left hand straight up overhead toward the ceiling and rotate the torso from the waist to gaze up at it. Hold for at least 30 seconds, then return to low lunge and repeat on the other side.

    Cat/Cow

    How to: Start on hands and knees with elbows and wrists below shoulders, knees below hips and toes untucked. On the inhale, drop your stomach and arch back to lift your tailbone and chest towards the ceiling. Look up. On the exhale, pull the navel to the spine and tuck the chin and pelvis towards the navel to round the spine. (Initiate the movement generated from the tailbone and allow the spine, neck and head to follow.) Repeat for at least 30 seconds.

    READ MORE: LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To How And When To Do It

    Spinal Twist

    How to: Start lying on the left side with legs bent and both arms straight, the right one resting on top of the left. Keep left arm on the floor and knees pointed toward the left side, then open right arm across the body in line with shoulder, bringing it to rest on the floor on the right side of the mat. Hold for at least 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

    Seated Spinal Twist

    How to: Start seated with legs crossed. Plant left foot outside of the right thigh, lifting knee as needed. Extend arms up overhead and twist torso to the left, placing right elbow against the outside of the left knee and left hand on the floor behind (but close to) back. On the inhale, lengthen the spine. On the exhale, gently twist lower back, middle back and then upper back to the left. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Then, repeat on the other side.

    This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

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    You Can Whip Up These High-Protein Bagels For Half The Calories Fast

    Picture this: it’s Wednesday, you’re in the throes of a work deadline and the clock hits 13:45. You haven’t eaten and your stomach hates you. You need to grab something nourishing, fast. Enter: these high-protein bagels, saviour of the stomach; goodness in a bite.

    These high-protein bagels pack a punch

    These high-protein bagels come from the mind of none other than WH Cover Star Angelique Daubermann. “You know I had to make my favourite food (bagels) with my other favourite food (cottage cheese),” Daubermann explains. “I love these for many reasons, but especially because most bagels you’ll find on the shelf are pushing 300 calories for those big bad boys! Now you can have a cute (lower cal) and higher protein bun with a hole in it for only 160 calories AND 11g of protein! This means more calories for your fave fillings!”

    For even more protein, this muscle-building sandwich features cottage cheese and an egg. Micronutrients are always key, so load up on the veg when compiling this high-protein bagel and you’ve got yourself a star meal.

    READ MORE: These Flax Energy Bites Will Keep You Fuelled Until Your Next Meal

    The Lean Girl’s High-Protein Bagels

    Whip these up in a flash and snack on something wholesome and protein-rich.

    Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast, LunchCuisine American

    Calories 161 kcal

    120 g Flour (cake or oat)250 g Fat-free smooth cottage cheese1 tsp Salt1 tsp Baking powder1 tsp Garlic & herb spice1 Egg, for egg washEverything Bagel seasoning to garnish
    Combine your dry ingredients.Add the cottage cheese and spoon the mixture together to form a dough.Once dough is formed, divide into four sections.Roll out the four sections into circles, making a hole in each one to create the bagel.Bake the bagels in the oven for 15 minutes.Fry up an egg and add it to the bagel with avocado, cottage cheese and baby spinach.

    Keyword air fryer, bagels, egg muffin, high-protein

    READ MORE: This Beetroot Chocolate Cake Is So Moist It Doesn’t Even Need Icing More

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    The Top Beginner’s Weightlifting Gear To Elevate Your Training

    If you’re taking up weightlifting in 2024 – and need the weightlifting gear to go with it, you’re not alone. More and more women are taking up the sport, a positive turn from the days we shied away from heavy weights. As we know, weightlifting is not only paramount for supporting bone and muscle health (something that declines as we age), but it builds epic muscle that in turn, shreds our fat stores. Not only that, but the feeling of lifting something heavier than you were previously able to is unmatched.

    Why choose weightlifting?

    Weightlifting can score you a tighter, more toned body and act as a shield against some diseases. It decreases the risk of osteoporosis as well as pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and postpartum depression. It also protects from heart conditions, injury (especially from falls) and diabetes.

    READ MORE: Exactly How To Start Your Weightlifting Journey

    The right weightlifting gear, explained

    When it comes to weightlifting gear, the right stuff can elevate your training experience from one that’s only ok to one that’s epic and helps you grow and create those #gainz. We’ve outlined the top weightlifting gear, including shoes and the rest to help you on your way to greater heights in the sport.

    Nike Swoosh Flyknit

    It all starts with the right bra. Ultra-stretchy fabric on the back makes changing a breeze, and the traditional adjustable hook-and-eye clasp lets you find the perfect fit, especially with an ever-changing body. It’s perfect for all training, especially when transitioning from deadlifts to burpees. This bra’s got you covered.

    Burnt Core Tights

    Consider these your new go-to tights. The mid-rise waistband provides a supportive fit, constructed with new cutlines for increased flexibility, and squat-proof fabric ensures optimal coverage while you train.

    READ MORE: Try This Tough-ish Workout To Really Build Your Strength

    Mr Price Sport Cropped Vest

    You’re going to want a soft, breathable vest to take you through each workout in style. This one is quick-drying, comfy and cute.

    Reebok Nano X4

    Stay light and breezy with this shoe. The new Nano X4 introduces a completely redesigned upper with all-new FLEXWEAVE material engineered with a midfoot ventilation panel for increased breathability, durability, and a premium look and feel. Plus, the Lift and Run (L.A.R) Chassis System features innovative midsole technology built for added stability when lifting and cushioning for running and jumping. Available from February 15th.

    Wrap Gym Glove

    For when you’re not keen on calluses on your hands, get a pair of grippy gloves to help. This pair has an adjustable wrap-around fit so you can lift anything or nail a pull-up with ease.

    READ MORE: Just These Two Workouts Make A Killer Six-Week Workout Routine

    Vinyl Weight Set

    If you’re looking to begin your weightlifting journey at home, this set helps a ton. Your set can be transformed into a barbell, kettlebell or dumbbell. It goes up to 20kg, so it’s perfect for beginners.

    Foam roller

    After every session, use this foam roller to soothe muscle pain from weightlifting sessions. It’s lightweight and compact but has grooves that provide dee-tissue massage when you roll muscles over it.

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    These Flax Energy Bites Will Keep You Fuelled Until Your Next Meal

    Looking for a delightful and nutritious snack that’s a breeze to whip up? Enter these flax energy bites! In just 30 minutes, you can create a batch that will keep you fuelled throughout the week. What’s even better? Pop them in the freezer and they’ll stay fresh for up to a month. Packed with the goodness of flax meal, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre, these little energy boosters are as healthy as they are tasty.

    READ MORE: These Are The 20 Best Healthy Snacks For Weight Loss

    Per serving: About 97 cal, 7 g fat (1.5 g sat), 0 mg chol, 45 mg sodium, 8 g carb, 2 g fibre, 5 g sugar (2 g added sugar), 3 g pro

    Let’s Bake These Tasty Energy Bites:

    Flax Energy Bites

    They’re easy to make and will feed you all week.

    Total Time 30 minutes mins

    Servings 30 servingsCalories 97 kcal

    1 Food processor
    ⅔ cup roasted unsalted almonds6 pitted Medjool dates½ cup flax meal3 tbsp rolled oats⅔ cup smooth natural almond butter, stirred well1⅓ tsp honey1 tsp pure vanilla extract ½ tsp kosher salt¾ about 3/4 cup bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped 
    Heat oven to 190°C. Spread almonds on small rimmed baking sheet and roast until fragrant, 10 to 12 min.; let cool 10 min. In food processor, pulse dates to chop. Pulse with almonds, flax meal and oats to finely chop nuts. Pulse in almond butter, honey, vanilla and salt until dough starts to form. Pulse in 1 Tbsp water (adding more water 1 tsp at a time if needed) until dough holds together when squeezed. Transfer to large bowl and fold in chocolate. Roll into 2.5cm balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate, covered, 30 min. Refrigerate in airtight container up to 1 week or freeze up to 1 month.

    READ MORE: These Pistachio Energy Balls Are The Perfect Snack

    This article by Samantha Macavoy was originally published on Women’s Health US. More

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    You Won’t Believe These 6 Health Benefits Of Homemade Chocolate Cake

    When are peanut butter cookies and chocolate cake healthy? When you’re making them. Bust out a Bundt pan and cook up some perks…

    1. Less Stress

    Measuring out ingredients or kneading dough forces you to concentrate. These mindful moments calm the brain’s emotional centre – and direct blood flow to its impulse control hub. Which means you’ll feel more chilled overall.

    TRY RECIPE: This Beetroot Chocolate Cake Is So Moist It Doesn’t Even Need Icing

    2. Boosted Immunity

    Eeek, you’ve burnt the base! When it happens, focus on the upside: now you, too, can join the #PinterestFail sisterhood! Regularly flipping judge-y thoughts to more positive ones can lower stress hormone levels, which improves cell health and your body’s overall ability to fight off illness.

    3. Enhanced Cognition

    Any way you bake it, mixing up Grandma’s muesli rusks provides great brain benefits. Stringently following a recipe strengthens your procedural memory (a form of long-term recall that allows you to do something you haven’t done in years – you know, the “it’s like riding a bike” cliché). But going rogue – and say, holding the raisins and adding dried cranberries – flexes your smarts and gives your strategic reasoning skills a workout.

    READ MORE: 15 Wellness Journals To Kickstart Your Year

    4. A Healthier Heart

    Moving from counter to fridge and back does not = cardio for the day! But it does engage your muscles, which improves the way your body metabolises sugars and fats. Keep at it for two hours and you’ll net better blood-sugar levels – and, over time, significantly lower “bad” cholesterol. This, in turn, strengthens your ticker.

    5. A Longer Life

    Friends don’t let friends bake alone – at least not if they want to spend their golden years together. Batter-ing up with a loved one can build strong bonds that tack years onto your life. Sharing the fruit(cake)s of your labour is even better: generous acts lower inflammation levels, curbing your risk for chronic diseases like diabetes.

    READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Type 1 Diabetes

    6. A Slimmer Bod

    Isn’t it ironic? Indulging in homemade treats once a week buoys self-control, maintains a healthy-eating motivation (finally, a break from kale!) and prevents the “oh, what the hell” effect that leads to inhaling the whole tray. The key is planning the indulgence. Have one or two brownies warm out of the oven, then feed the rest to friends.

    Sources: Dr Nicole M. Avena, author of Why Diets Fail; Dr Elisha Goldstein, author of Uncovering Happiness; Dr Timothy De Waal Malefyt, Fordham University; Dr Emma Seppälä, Stanford University School Of Medicine. More

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    10 Best Maternity Leggings For Moms-On-The-Move

    Ditch the maternity myths, mama! Those “one size fits all” leggings you loved pre-bump won’t cut it anymore. As your beautiful belly grows, your workout wardrobe needs a little refresh. No more tugging up tights, flashing with rogue crop tops, or feeling like you’re suffocating mid-burpee. Enter: the glorious world of maternity leggings.

    We scoured the fitness landscape (read: online reviews, mama forums and our own sweaty test runs) to bring you the top 10 maternity leggings that’ll move and groove with you every step of the way. Whether you’re doing a HIIT class, stretching it out with yoga, or just chasing toddlers around the park, these leggings will keep you comfy, supported and (dare we say?) stylish. Plus, they’ll transition seamlessly into postpartum life, so you can rock them long after baby arrives. 

    READ MORE: The 15-Minute Pregnancy Workout You Can Do At Home

    We called on the experts

    We polled our amazing community of moms to find out what really matters when it comes to maternity leggings. Key components to look out for across the bank were: stretch, comfort, support and moisture-wicking material.

    Fitness influencer Michelina Chindiya shared: “What I looked for were leggings that had a good hold on the belly area. I found that initially with the cheaper tights, they would stretch out fast and I’d find myself pulling them up ever so often throughout my workouts. I also looked out for full coverage of my belly.” She adds, “I wanted leggings that weren’t too thick and a hassle to put on, because as you get bigger, especially in the last trimester, it’s hard to get into a super tight set of leggings.”

    Fitness trainer and influencer Katy Cloeté says that comfort is her number one priority. “As your belly grows, support is necessary. Some women may need this support earlier in their pregnancy rather than later. Most women won’t be doing extreme exercise later on in their pregnancy, so extreme compression and support is not necessary. But a snug enough fit to make your belly feel supported is a must for me… again, this probably mostly boils down to comfort,” she adds.

    Katy’s tip for the summer: “If you are carrying at your biggest during the summer months, then leggings with moisture-wicking materials are best! You’ll most likely be perspiring a lot more than usual. I also prefer to stick to darker colours that will hide any sweat marks in unwanted places!”

    Our Top Maternity Leggings Picks:

    adidas ⅞ Maternity Leggings

    These leggings are comfy, supportive with a super high waist that grows with you, and moisture-wicking to keep you dry. Plus, say goodbye to annoying seams and hello to distraction-free movement.

    Nike Zenvy Maternity

    These unbelievably soft biker shorts are squat-proof, sweat-wicking and oh-so-gentle on your skin. The maternity design adapts to your changing body, so you can move freely and confidently throughout your pregnancy. Plus, they’re durable enough to handle all your workouts.

    PUMA Maternity Studio ⅞ Leggings

    These PUMA leggings boast dryCELL tech to keep you cool, a supportive high waist and a cropped silhouette that’s both trendy and practical. Because pregnant mamas deserve some fierce workout style, too!

    Maxed Maternity Mid-Thigh Tights

    Looking for an affordable and comfy option? Look no further than these mid-thigh tights from MrP Sport. They offer supportive stretch, an extended band for your growing bump, and all at a budget-friendly price. Perfect for keeping active throughout your pregnancy journey.

    Cotton On Maternity Core ⅞ Tights

    Simple yet effective, these tights from Cotton On tick all the right boxes. The comfy curved waistband grows with your bump, the ankle length is perfect for warmer weather and the elasticated waistband adds an extra touch of comfort.

    Reebok Lux Maternity Tights 2.0

    Reebok knows comfort is key, and these leggings deliver. From indoor cycling to prenatal yoga, they’ll keep you supported and sweat-free with their high-stretch waistband and seamless construction. Plus, they look as good as they feel, thanks to the flattering design.

    Bellysimo Maternity Leggings

    Silky soft and perfect for any activity level, these leggings are a budget-friendly gem. The cotton/nylon blend belly band is comfy and supportive, and the non-ravel fabric allows you to customize the length for the perfect fit. A great choice for all stages of pregnancy and postpartum.

    H&M Mama Cycling Shorts

    Not technically workout gear, but these soft jersey shorts with a wide, comfy waistband are ideal for walks, errands, or lounging. They offer just the right amount of coverage and movement for your growing bump, making them a versatile addition to your mama wardrobe.

    Nike One Maternity Short

    The Nike One Biker Shorts are sweat-wicking, squat-proof and totally opaque, so you can move with confidence. The maternity design ensures a perfect fit throughout your pregnancy, and the versatile style makes them perfect for workouts or everyday wear.

    OTG Maternity Leisure Short

    Up your lounge game with these comfy and lightweight shorts. They’re perfect for relaxing at home or running errands, offering just the right amount of coverage and movement for your growing bump.

    Note: Always find out from your doctor whether exercising while pregnant is safe and reassess the situation at every check-up. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, stop and call your doc.

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