This article will help you figure out how to choose the right sports bra for running and protect yourself from discomfort during your runs.
Why is choosing a running bra important for female athletes? Reliable fixation of the chest will reduce the risk of chafing and pain during oscillatory movements while running, especially pronounced on some days of the menstrual cycle.
In addition, a well-fitting running bra is more comfortable than a regular bra – it will not unfasten during training, it will not have to be constantly adjusted, and the straps will not slip. This is especially important when running long distances when every little thing affects the result and impressions at the finish line.
Why you need a sports bra
During dynamic exercises such as running, jumping, and functional training, the chest is subject to oscillatory movements, causing discomfort, stretching and even pain in the mammary glands. Do not rely on subjective feelings: even if you do not yet feel obvious discomfort, a cumulative effect may work. Take care of your health and play it safe even when it seems to you that your breast size does not need support.
Replacing sportswear made from technical fabrics with casual wear is not the best idea for every element of it. No one will train in leather shoes or denim shorts. The same rules apply to the first layer of sportswear.
Ordinary bras can bring a lot of inconveniences even in the short run: from the strong rubbing of the skin to damage to the thing itself. Unpleasant sensations from slipping straps, lifting cups and rubbing the skin against the bones can completely ruin the workout.
During long-distance races, the straps, seams and fasteners of bras literally cut into the skin, leaving long-healing abrasions. Special women’s running tops have a seamless fit and have the compression you need to secure your bust.
Today, when the sporty style has become an integral part of the fashion industry, and almost every store offers its own line of sportswear, it is so easy to get lost in the abundance of goods and, in pursuit of style, choose not the best option in terms of comfort and practicality. A quality running sports bra is made from functional, breathable materials that wick away moisture to prevent prickly heat and irritation on delicate skin areas.
In addition, even after many washes, with the right approach to caring for synthetic materials, such a fabric will not lose its shape, and the thing will last a long time. An ordinary bra that is not designed for use in extreme conditions is likely to lose its original appearance and become unusable.
How to choose the perfect running bra
Support type
There are several types of support with light, medium and high compression. You can determine the type of support by the label, where manufacturers most often use the designations Light, Medium and High Support, respectively.
A sports bra of the first type is suitable for workouts that do not involve a dynamic load: such a bra can be safely worn for yoga, Pilates or stretching. Such a model will not provide reliable fixation, but it will not interfere with breathing exercises.
Medium support is suitable for low-intensity jogging and will provide comfort during strength exercises and fitness activities. Such tops will be useful for cyclists, skiers and lovers of moderate functional training.
High-compression bras are essential for high-intensity running, CrossFit, jumping and impact training.
It is not recommended to wear a sports bra with a high level of compression for long runs when you have to run for long hours – this can negatively affect blood flow.
Fabric type
Definitely, a running water bra should be made of high quality breathable synthetic fabrics that provide moisture removal and evaporation. Cotton sports tops are suitable only for static loads and breathing practices. Due to their inability to wick away moisture, these tops will quickly become uncomfortable and functionally useless.
Modern running tops are made from multi-layered fabric that allows the skin to breathe and moisture to evaporate faster from the surface of the skin.
Opt for quality synthetics with added breathable microfiber, such as Dry-Fit technology that lets air through and absorbs moisture. Polyester gives the material considerable strength, and clothing made from it will last a long time. The addition of nylon allows the garment to stretch and conform to your body shape while retaining its shape. The use of lycra makes it possible to support the muscles without restricting movement at all.
Do not purchase products made from 100% cotton and other fabrics (leather, latex, suede, etc.) that are not intended for sports.
For hot weather, look to sports bras with special ventilated panels and a seamless fit. For winter runs, choose models from merino wool. Pay attention to the elastic band at the bottom of the sports bra: it should fit snugly enough to the body, but not pinch the skin and not hinder breathing and movement.