Whether you’re saluting the sun or prefer to pound the pavement, it’s time to ensure you are fully supported and keeping your breast tissue firm. Your breasts are made up entirely of tissue and ligaments, without any muscle mass. Your breasts rely solely your skin’s elasticity, which means that once damaged or stretched, they won’t regain their original shape. With this in mind, selecting the right sports bra for your workout is important. Find our top five tips outlined below:
CONSIDER YOUR WORKOUT INTENSITY
Exercises that involve jumping, skipping or hopping generate what we call ‘vertical displacement’ or bounce. Horizontal displacement or side-to-side swing is usually caused by racquet sports such as tennis. It’s important to consider the type of displacement that will result from your exercise of choice, as this will determine the type of support you require.
COMPRESSION VERSUS ENCAPSULATION
Compression bras work to hold the breasts in place and restrict movement. Women with cup sizes larger than a D should opt for the added support found in an encapsulation bra. These bras have separate moulded cups to gently lift and separate the breasts.
Did you know?
When you separate the breasts, you effectively halve their weight. This reduces movement and eases the pull on your shoulders and back during exercise.
CONSIDER THE FABRIC
Your sports bra should always be made from sweat-wicking fabric. This means that the sweat will be pulled away from your body to ensure comfort from start to finish. Netting and extra lining offer additional absorption.
NON-WIRE VERSUS UNDERWIRE
This really depends the intensity of your exercise. For high intensity exercise such as running or tennis an underwire is important while non-underwire bras are suitable for yoga or pilates.
STRAIGHT BACK VERSUS RACER BACK
When compared to traditional straight straps, a racer back allows greater movement through the shoulders and also provides additional support. Pulling the straps inward and together at the back evens the weight distribution across the shoulders and lessens the strain on your shoulders and back.
