I know it has been a while since my last post, but it has been so busy and hectic at the job and at the home. So I figured I’d make my next post helpful and somewhat humorous.
How do you choose the right sports bra? Well I know I’m a big boobielicious woman (34DDD/E) and it’s hard working out with these big mamma jammas. Not only are they huge and heavy (especially during certain times), but they are also hot as all heck and if not maintained, can be a pain in the butt if a rash appears underneath them. To add the icing on the cake, finding a sports bra to fit them is insane. Its either they are too small, not supportive or very expensive if you do find one.
There have been many times when I have worn as many as two bras plus the shelf built into many workout tanks. I call this “Triple Fortification”. Doing high impact activities that I do, kickboxing and ZUMBA, and using the treadmill, I need all that extra support. I don’t want the girls to knock my eyes out or even better make a surprise appearance…
At any rate, whatever the sport, it helps to have the right equipment. For women, part of that means a good, supportive sports bra. As I stated above, during certain times of the month our hormonal cycles can cause breasts to be more sensitive. Ligaments that support breast tissue can get stretched and inflamed. In addition to being uncomfortable, working out without proper breast protection and support can cause injury and lead to sagging.
The type you need depends on what exercises you do and how big your breasts are.
The Right Type
Sports bras offer support with one of two methods: Compression or encapsulation.
Compression bras hold breasts snugly against the chest wall with tight elastic fabric. They work well for low impact sports like yoga and walking and for smaller breasted women (Cup sizes A&B). They usually come in either scoop-back or racer-back styles. Scoop-back works best for low impact and small breasts while racer-back is better for higher impact sports like skiing or running and women with medium-sized breasts.
Encapsulation bras are similar to regular bras and have wide straps, hooks, and underwire. They protect and support each breast individually. Experts say that women with C, D, or larger bra sizes should opt for encapsulation bras for best support, regardless of the sport.
Compression/encapsulation bras provide support using both methods. Some women with very large breasts (cup sizes C and above) use two sports bras to minimize bounce and maximize support and comfort. Wear an encapsulation bra next to your skin and a compression bra on top.
Tank tops with shelf bras offer minimal protection or support but may work for small-breasted women doing low impact sports.
The Right Fit
When shopping for sports bras, check out the straps, band, cups, and fabric. Wide straps provide more support than thin ones. The band (the part that encircles your ribs under your breasts) is responsible for most of the support. The wider it is, the more support it provides. Cups should correspond to your normal bra size, or a size that's slightly tighter. Fabrics should allow perspiration to wick away from skin, minimize chafing, and keep you comfortable.
How do you know if it fits? Studies suggest that approximately 75 percent of women are wearing the wrong bra size. Get a free professional fitting at a department store. Once you know the right size, you can try on a variety of bras to find one that's most comfortable for you. Make sure the band, straps, and armpit holds don't dig in or chafe. Fabric on the cups should lie smooth against the skin.
Give your bra the "jump test" to see how much support it provides. The less bounce, the better. While you don't have to spend a fortune to get a good bra, this is one investment that will make a huge difference.
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| Compression/encapsulation bra Champion $45 |
Source: http://www.qualityhealth.com/fitness-exercise-articles/how-choose-right-sports-bra?printArticle=true
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