In the last few years, emphasis on fitness and awareness of health has become increasingly important. Many women today are finding time to exercise on a regularly basis. A little known fact is that when exercising, what we are doing is as important as what we are wearing. The wrong attire can make your exercise arduous and make you injury prone. Thus, it is always essential to select the very best sports bra available in the market.
What is a Sports Bra?
A Sports bra is a well-constructed athletic brassiere which is designed to maximize the support of the breast and minimize the bounce. Whatever is your cup size, you need good support so you can focus on your sport. A sports bra helps you achieve the same.
Why Do You Need a Sports Bra?
There are many reasons why you need a sports bra such as:
- Avoid Sagging Breast: Breasts are mostly composed of fatty tissues which are not elastic. During repetitive or high impact sport, the breasts bounce forcing the ligaments to stretch. Once these ligaments have stretched, they result in sagging breasts. Sports bras support your breast and avoid sagging.
- Avoid Pain: The bounce created by high intensity activities cause breast pain and upper back and shoulder problems.
- To Wick the Moisture: Sports bras absorb moisture and draw it away from the skin, leaving you comfortable and dry.
- Reduce Strain on the Breast: Any unsupported movement such as running can cause three-dimensional movement: up-down, in-out, and side-to-side. This will result in discomfort, chaffing and strain on the breasts. Sports bras help reduce the strain on the breast.
What are the Types of Sports Bras?
Sports bras come in different shapes and sizes. But they are primarily classified on the basis of techniques that they use to support your breast.
- Compression Bras: As the name suggest, they compress the breasts against the chest wall to restrict movement. They are ideal for A and B cups.
- Encapsulation Bras: They have individual cups to surround and support each breast separately. They are ideal for D and DD cups.
- Compression/Encapsulation Bras: They are also called as 'combination bras' because they use a combination of two techniques to support your breast. They are best for C and D cups.
What to Look for When Buying a Sports Bra?
There are a few basic factors to keep in mind when choosing a sports bra:
- Support: Different bras offer different levels of support. To minimize the amount of bounce, you need to select a bra that provides maximum support. Naturally, larger breast require a stronger support.
- Moisture Control: For chafing prevention, look for moisture-wicking fabrics. Stay away from 100% cotton bras because once you start sweating, they'll stay wet.
- Check Straps: Make sure the straps are wide enough and do not contain elastic. Narrow, elastic straps will cut into your shoulders making you uncomfortable.
Sports bras, just like running shoes, also need a replacement when they are worn out. If you wear it three times a week or more, buy a new one every six months.
