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From cycling to Hiit sessions, these gym buddies won’t let you down
Incredibly, breasts undergo more g-force during a run than an F1 car. Yet more than 90 per cent of women are wearing the wrong size sports bra, and nearly half experience breast pain when working out, according to research conducted by the University of Portsmouth on behalf of Adidas.
Needless to say, it’s time to give our breasts some support, and this is where a good sports bra comes into play.
Sports bras generally come in one of three different types: compression, encapsulation or a combination. Compression sports bras do exactly as described: they restrict breast motion by compressing and flattening them and are generally regarded as a better option for smaller busts than larger ones.
Encapsulation sports bras usually come with structured cups to support each breast individually, while a combination sports bra mixes the best of the compression and encapsulation varieties.
So, how to go about picking the right sports bra? Firstly, the level of support needed differs by activity and bust size. High-impact sports bras are designed to be suitable for sports that put your chest through the most bounce, such as running, Hiit, squash and kickboxing. Low to medium-impact sports bras cover activities such as yoga, pilates, weight training and cycling – but it’s important to remember this guidance is dependent on bust size and personal preference.
As always when it comes to choosing a bra, it’s worth measuring or remeasuring your bust (there are useful video guides on how to do this correctly) and if you’re unsure, get it done professionally. Some of the brands featured below even offer free video consultations to help you select the right size.
A reliable sports bra needs to be supportive, comfortable, durable and, in our opinion, stylish. To get a feel of the different sports bras on the market, we tried out various products during a range of activities. From yoga sessions to cycling, running, tennis and gym workouts, we tested a host of sports bras over multiple sessions. As well as considering the quality, value, size options and design of each, we also looked at how well the items washed and wore over time.
Sports bra fitting is a minefield even after you have your measurements. Often it is a trial and error process, sifting through different styles, cuts and support to find one that is just right. But there are a few things to watch out for while choosing a bra:
The fit –A sports bra should be snug but not too uncomfortably tight and shouldn’t restrict your breathing. However, it should be tighter than your everyday bras; a good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit two fingers between the straps and your shoulders. The cup should also be smooth – wrinkles usually mean it is too big. If you are spilling out, it may be too small. And as with a regular bra, you should watch out for gaps. If you pick a style with an underwire, make sure it doesn’t pinch or dig in and lays flat against the rib cage.
High impact vs low impact – Once you’ve got the fit right, it’s essential to consider what activities you’ve got planned. If you are a yogi or a pilates enthusiast, you can probably get away with a lower-support bra. Whereas if you are an avid runner, you may need more help, so keep your eye out for thicker straps. Also, picking a bra with sweat-wicking, breathable material is always a good idea when doing high-impact activities.
Those with bigger busts may need a little bit of extra support in their workouts. Generally, there are two types of bras to choose from: encapsulation bras with individual cup support and compression bras that, well, compress everything all together to stop any jiggling. You can also go for an underwired style, although this can be uncomfortable while exercising and cause chafing.
Read more about sports bras for bigger busts in our round-up of the best.
We were super impressed with the Maaree solidarity high-impact sports bra, as it’s clear to see that a lot of thought and innovation has gone into its design. We felt secure, supported and stylish in the bra, even during the most intense high-impact exercises, so it was a winner for us. The Contur afresh crop is also worth highlighting because we loved the silky softness of the fabric and the flattering fit. The brand’s focus on sustainability is a real bonus too.
Will Modibodi’s period activewear revolutionise the way you work out each month?