Running can be unreasonably uncomfortable without proper sports bra fitting. Without the proper support, sensitive breast tissue can tear and cause irreversible damage. The materials in a sports bra will wear out with use, just like with a pair of shoes. When your bra celebrates a birthday, it might be time to retire it to low impact activities.
Good breast health requires proper support for your unique size and shape. What works for Mary in a size 34B will surely be a disaster for Ellie who wears a 40DD. Here are some quick tips and considerations for your next sports bra!
- First off, don’t be shy to ask a sales associate for help. They will be more familiar with the products and make your fitting process more efficient.
- Having a clear idea of what you are looking for in a bra and what type of physical activity it will be used for is critical.
- When shopping, make sure you give yourself enough time. Rushing through a bra fit will leave you frustrated and walking away with the wrong fit!
- When trying on bras, don’t be afraid to try different cup sizes. Most brands fit differently depending on their style and your individual body type.
- If the bra chafes, allows excessive movement, rides up, or gapes under the arm, keep trying!
- A proper fitting sports bra should fit more snug than a regular lingerie bra.
- Breasts should be contained completely within the bra cups, with no overflow.
- Underwire bras should sit next to the rib cage, directly below the breast tissue.
- Wider straps provide comfort by distributing weight more evenly, thus helping to prevent back or shoulder discomfort.
- With a properly fitted sports bra, you should be able to slip two fingers snugly between the band and the skin, as well as under the strap at the top of the shoulders.
Bra Tops and Shelf Bras
Both bra tops and shelf bras are designed for low impact activity. A bra top is a basic shelf bra that is sewn into a tank. Although sizing varies from extra small to extra-large, they will not provide maximum support for a cup size larger than B.
Support & Shape Bras
Support and shape bras are designed for medium to high impact. A wide range of supportive features includes; thicker straps, underwire, adjustable clasps, and racer back design. These types of bras range from A to DD, and sometimes E.
Compression and Full Motion Control Bras
Compression Bras are designed to firmly hold the breasts against the body and are ideal for high impact activities.
Some bras with full encapsulation and compression have underwire and are higher cut in the neckline to provide maximum support. These types of bras are best suited for women with cup sizes larger than a B.
Thanks to Rackets & Runners for this valuable information. Be sure to visit them if you have any questions or need help with proper fitting.
