For sports bra wearers, appropriate support is necessary for any workout set. Why? When exercising, especially during high-impact activities, your breasts can actually bounce up to eight inches. If not managed by a supportive bra, this excessive movement can lead to discomfort, soreness, and sagging.
But keep in mind that the right support looks different for everyone. It can depend on breast size, as well as the type of physical activity you’re doing. Here’s what you need to consider when looking for a supportive sports bra:
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Band – A sports bra’s band actually provides about 80-90% of a bra’s total support. Since it’s doing most of the work, it’s important that the band is thick enough, depending on your breast size. For those with larger breasts, consider a band that clasps for added security, rather than a pullover or tank-style bra.
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Cups – Sports bras come in compression and encapsulation styles. Compression bras look similar to shelf bras and hold your breasts securely to your chest. Encapsulation bras have defined cups that hold your breasts in a more natural position while preventing them from moving. Compression bras typically work best for those with A and B cups, while encapsulation bras are best for those with D cups and higher.
The type of support you need is also impacted by the intensity of exercise you’re doing. For instance, a pullover shelf bra is perfect for a low impact workouts like yoga or Pilates. However, for something that requires a lot of movement, like running or HIIT workouts, you’ll want a sports bra with a thicker band and straps that will keep you comfortable and in place. If you’re looking to create a full standout outfit for your next low impact workout, we also recommend you check out our blog on yoga outfits.