Just like how wearing the wrong size shoes while doing a physical activity or any sports can lead to uncomfort and even injury, having the wrong type and size of sports bra on could lead to sagging of the breasts, soreness and even risk of future breast cancer in some cases. That’s why when it comes to choosing a sports bra for any sort of physical activity, you need to pick the right one. Just scrolling through colors of the bra isn’t enough, your favorite color won’t safeguard your breasts but a proper sports bra will. Oftentimes women are reluctant in doing any physical activity or won’t take part in sports as their breasts become a barrier for them. Due to uncomfort and possible embarrassment, women put off exercising which deteriorates their health. Any sort of movement can cause tissue pain in the breasts if proper and comfortable support isn’t available. That’s why when choosing a sports bra, you really need to think about it being the perfect fit for you as it will positively affect your physical well being. Here’s a small guide on how to choose the perfect sports bra-
- Purpose- What’s your purpose for buying a sports bra? What sort of exercise are you looking to do wearing the sports bra? Your choice of activity will be an influential factor in choosing a bra. If you’re doing some low-key activity like walking, yoga or pilates there’ll be a low impact support bra for that. But if you’re looking to do something hardcore like running or high intensity workouts or dancing then a sports bra that provides high impace support will be the one for you. So according to the activity you’ve chosen, you need a complimenting sports bra for the same which’ll provide sufficient support.
- Type of Sports bra- There are three types of sports bras- Compression, Encapsulation, Combination(compression+encapsulation).
Compression- As the name suggests, this type of bra compresses the breast to the chest, it has no cup to provide extra support to bustier women. It is best suited for low impact exercises like walking, yoga or pilates.
Encapsulation- This type of bra encapsulates each of the breasts separately and provides support with the help of cups and underwiring. Designed for high impact exercises, it keeps the breast in place, provides support while high intensity movement.
Combination- This type of bra makes use of compression and encapsulation to provide the best of both worlds. It has padding and different cups to keep the breasts separate and has adequate compression so during movement the breast is pressed up against the chest and provides minimum movement.
- Breathable material- Make sure to look for bras that are breathable as you will naturally sweat when you’re exercising. Try to also look for a bra that can soak excess sweat or look forward to some nasty rashes.
When you go to buy a sports bra, be clear about what sorts of activities you’ll be using it for. Get help from the people who’re selling if it’s your first time going to buy a sports bra or take along someone who has experience using bras. Make sure to try them on before purchasing as no one bra fits all. Move around, try to get used to wearing it for long times and having to run, jump or lay down with them. Invest in more than one type of sports bra if you’re looking to do both high and low impact activities. Buy a good quality sports bra so you don’t have to frequent the shop as a good quality bra should withstand all sorts of wear and tear.
