Bump-approved advice to keep you comfortably cycling throughout your pregnancy.

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Cycling is known for it's tight, compressive aesthetic. And for some mamas, that works just fine... in the first trimester. But as your belly grows, feeling the squeeze around your midsection is no fun.

Hot tip: once your bump starts growing past the point of no return (IYKYK), swap your fitted cycling tops for something looser and more relaxed. You want fabric that breathes, moves with you, and doesn't put any pressure on your belly.

A loose jersey also gives you room to grow, so you're not constantly replacing your kit every trimester. Look for:

✔️ Relaxed or boxy fit tops with stretch fabric

✔️ Lightweight, breathable materials — your body runs warmer during pregnancy, so airflow really matters

The goal is to feel good on the bike — not squeezed in.

This one is non-negotiable: ditch the waistband. As your belly grows, any shorts or tights with a waistband — no matter how stretchy — will eventually dig in, constrict, and become uncomfortable (or worse, put unwanted pressure on your belly).

Bibs are the move. The shoulder straps distribute support across your upper body instead of sitting across your abdomen, which means zero compression on your bump. You'll be way more comfortable, and you can ride longer without constantly adjusting.

And no, you don't need to buy fancy maternity bibs that you'll never use again. Look for maternity-friendly bibs to give your belly room to breathe.

✔️ No waistband = no belly compression

✔️ Bib straps keep everything supported without squeezing

This is one of the easiest (and most overlooked) adjustments a pregnant cyclist can make: raise and tilt your handlebars.

In a standard aggressive riding position, you're leaning forward, which puts a lot of pressure directly on your belly. As your bump grows, this becomes increasingly uncomfortable and can restrict breathing. By lifting your handlebars and tilting them back slightly, you bring yourself into a more upright, relaxed position that takes that pressure off completely.

It's a small adjustment with a big payoff. You'll feel less compressed, breathe easier, and actually enjoy the ride instead of gritting your teeth through it.

Pro Tip: Most local bike shops can make this adjustment in minutes. Or if you have a quick-release stem, you might be able to do it yourself.