7 Guidelines For Choosing A Comfortable Sport Bra For Sports Activities

Illustration of guides choosing a comfortable sports bra for sports (Freepik/senivpetro)

YOGYAKARTA - Sport becomes more fun if supporting equipment is also suitable, one of which is sports bra. One of the choices of sports bras does not only make it uncomfortable. But it also risks experiencing back pain, neck, and skin irritation. Well, for guidance on choosing sports bras that are comfortable to support sports activities, here's the explanation.

One of the first things that needs to be considered is measuring the band (bottom side) and the bust (best chest part properly). Launching Women's Health, Monday, September 15, the size of the band must be measured under the chest and can be said to fit quite well when it can pull two fingers without feeling crowded.

After that, measure the circumference of the chest in the most full part (bust), don't press it too strongly. The difference between the size of the bust and the band determines the size of the cup. For example, if the difference is 2 inches, it means cup B, 3 inches of cup C, and so on. Pay attention, each brand has different sizes and models. So before buying the size of the fit and accurate so that sports activities are always comfortable without risk.

Types of exercise strongly affect the level of support required. There is a huge difference between yoga or light stretching with running or HIIT. For light support types suitable for low-impact activities such as yoga, pilates, or leisurely walks. This type of bra is usually more flexible, less structure. While medium support is suitable for more dynamic activity such as class fitness, hiking, or strength training. This type of bra provides a balance between compression and flexibility, reported by Vogue.

In more activity requiring bra support, such as HIIT, jumping, and running, it is necessary to use a bra with high support support levels. Because, activities that require ups and downs require a type of bra that combines compression and encapsulation will greatly help reduce wobbling.

Most sports bra support must come from the lower band. If this ribbon is too loose, then the burden will shift to the shoulder rope, which can cause shoulder and back pain. How to test, when using a bra, try lifting your arm. The lower band should stay flat, not go up. If it goes up, it means too loose. The lower band should also not be too far away.

Shoulder straps are no less important. Ropes that are too thin or out of tune can cause pressure on the shoulder, even pain or numbness when pressing the nerves. Ideally, the shoulder strap is wide enough, can be adjusted in length, and does not decay when moving. Models with cross-links (cross-back or cross-back) usually help distribute the load more evenly and maintain a better shoulder position.

Sport bras must fit tighter than ordinary bras, but do not let them restrain or make it difficult to breathe. The more elastic the sports bra material, the greater the chance that the breast will move and if used for heavy exercise, it can have a high impact. On the other hand, a bra that is too tight is also not good because it can inhibit circulation, reduce lymphatic drainage, causing discomfort. So find a balance, choose a sports bra that is a little elastic but still stable.

The choice of ingredients is very influential on comfort, especially when sweating. cotton is comfortable from the start, but not dry quickly, so it can hold off moisture, trigger irritation. So choose to use synthetic materials such as nylon micro-polymers or polyester whose fiber allows the skin to breathe, dry quickly, and can absorb sweat effectively. As for the additional padding or foam in the cup, it is also important to take into account. Although it is important to choose foam that absorbs sweat and is not moist. The suggestion, don't accumulate too much padding if it is not necessary.

When trying sports bras, do some movements such as jumping, gossiping, and lifting hands, or commonly called bounce tests. If the breasts move excessively or there is a cup part that "out" of the bra, it means less support. Please note that the bra size changes with changing weight. So, there's nothing wrong with measuring back and adjusting the size regularly.

That's a guide to choosing a sports bra that is comfortable in supporting sports activities. It should be understood, choosing a sports bra is not just aesthetic, it's a matter of your health, comfort, and sports performance. By paying attention to the guidelines above, you can exercise freely to worry about the risks that may be felt in the future.