How to Choose a Sports Bra for Running

Here is a question from Sari about choosing sports bras for running.  Since I am not an expert in this topic, I asked The Fitmommy to answer the question.  Fitmommy is a runner and a mother to the cute and adorable, Sky.  You can visit her blogs at The Fitmommy and Embracing Everyday.

While Sari was asking how and where, this article is only to answer the how and tips in selecting sports bras.
 

Q:

I started running a few months ago, mainly to lose weight. Apart from the fact that it actually works in the weight loss department, I have come to enjoy running.  However, I have difficulty running long distances and for longer periods because my breasts begin to hurt.

Unfortunately, I have not found a local shop, be it a department store, a specialty store, or a boutique store that can provide sports bras that are supportive enough for running and well-fitting for a woman like me.

So there’s your topic for Girl Talk: Sports Bras – How to choose them and Where to get them. Because all women need it.

– Sari

A:

The second most important piece of sports equipment that is vital for the active woman is the SPORTS BRA. I have been through a dozen or so sports bra – and I wish to share some tips when you go off buying one.

1. Measure yourself and know your TRUE bra size. Majority of us don’t really know our true bra size. Knowing your correct measurements will make it easier for you to narrow down your choices when looking and trying on one.

2. Shop at a Sports specialty store – where they offer a lot more choices as to buying from a department store. But it’s perfectly fine to buy from a department store if the brand specializes on sports like Nike, Adidas, etc…

3. Do you care how you look in a sports bra? I’m asking you this because there are TWO TYPES of SPORTS BRA available in the market: first is the COMPRESSION type;  this is the type without cups that “compresses” your breast to minimize bounce. The second one is the ENCAPSULATION type; this one has cups and gives you a feminine shape but usually comes with underwire and hooks. Doable if your level of activity is low-impact, but may cause discomfort if you do high-impact activities. Examples of low-impact activities are: walking, cycling, or rock climbing. Examples of medium to high-impact activities are: aerobics, running, boxing, basketball, volleyball and soccer.

4. Opt for sports bra made of performance and moisture-wicking fabric (you may look for dri-fit, climacool or lightning dry on the label or bra itself.) AVOID buying a COTTON sports bra as much as possible. It will absorb ALL your sweat AND WILL NOT DRY. It will not be a pleasant experience. Trust me.

5. Be prepared to SPEND. Most good sports bra ranges from P700.00 to as much as P3,000.00 because of the technology and the type of fabric used. Consider it as an investment for your health.

6. When you try on a pair – MOVE! Jump up and down or jog in place to check for the support it gives when you do move. Circle your arms upward and forward and backward to check if the elastic bands curls up and if it pinches your shoulders or your armpits. The right sports bra should be snug yet comfortable – and it should move with you.

– by The Fitmommy