Women across Australia continue to face a common yet significant challenge during their workouts: the struggle with uncomfortable, unsupportive, and ill-fitting sports bras. Many are unaware that the wrong sports bra could be undermining their fitness goals, leading to decreased performance and increased risk of injury.
Recent research highlights the detrimental effects of wearing an unsupportive or ill-fitting sports bra while exercising. It has been shown that such bras can hinder overall performance and elevate the risk of injury. For instance, a study from Bendon revealed that wearing the wrong sports bra can shorten a woman’s stride length by an average of 4 centimeters per step. Over the course of a long run, this can lead to significant fatigue and a slower pace, making it more challenging to achieve personal fitness milestones.
Morgan, a recent convert to running, learned this lesson the hard way. Initially, she experienced breast pain and discomfort that distracted her from her workout. “My breasts were hurting, there was a lot of discomfort,” she shared. “It feels like things are jiggling and moving in the wrong direction.” Morgan’s experience is not unique; studies suggest that up to 80% of women may be wearing the wrong bra size, which can severely impact their exercise routines.
The implications of wearing an ill-fitting sports bra extend beyond mere discomfort. During activities like running, unsupported breasts can travel several kilometers farther than the rest of a woman’s body due to excessive bouncing. For example, an A-cup can travel an extra 1.7 kilometers during a marathon, while a D-cup can travel as much as 6.65 kilometers farther. This excessive movement can lead to fatigue and hinder performance, making it essential for women to wear bras that provide adequate support.
Despite the clear benefits of a well-fitted sports bra, many women are hesitant to get properly fitted. Anna Johnson, the chief executive of Bendon, noted a prevalent taboo surrounding the fitting process. “It just amazes me how all the women we talk to, even at the Sydney Marathon, none of them had ever been fitted,” she remarked. This reluctance can lead to continued discomfort and subpar performance.
Johnson emphasized that stretchy crop tops often do not provide the necessary support for moderate to high-impact exercises, especially for women with larger busts. Instead, women should seek sports bras with thicker, supportive straps and a firm yet comfortable fit to minimize bouncing. The importance of getting fitted cannot be overstated; a proper fit can make all the difference in a woman’s workout experience.
Morgan’s journey took a positive turn when she finally got fitted for a high-impact sports bra. She had previously guessed her size, unaware of how much support a proper sports bra could provide. After her fitting, she experienced a remarkable transformation. “The first run that I did with a proper sports bra was actually the furthest I’ve run and at the quickest pace as well,” she said.
Research has shown that adequate breast support can improve trunk and knee biomechanics, enhancing running economy and helping to prevent common injuries. Since getting fitted, Morgan has increased her running frequency from once or twice a week to up to four times a week. The right sports bra not only improved her performance but also boosted her confidence. “I was so surprised, it’s such a big difference … I wish I did it sooner,” she reflected. “I’m running faster, I’m enjoying it more, and now I just feel like I look like a runner.”
The journey to finding the right sports bra is crucial for women who want to optimize their workouts and achieve their fitness goals. By prioritizing proper fit and support, they can enhance their performance, reduce the risk of injury, and enjoy a more comfortable exercise experience.
