Sports Bras – GET FIT!
The Shock Absorber
We’re now three weeks into our post-holiday lives. While some of us may be having a difficult time easing out of our lazy summer schedules many of us will have started new training programs or classes, refreshed and ready to devote ourselves to an all-around healthy lifestyle.
Why not treat yourself to a new sports bra to give you the support and motivation to help you achieve success?
There are a few reasons why a well fit sports bra can improve your workout or compliment your sports activity.
Firstly, our breasts are supported by two ligaments called Cooper’s Ligaments, which suspend our bosoms and help to keep them in their natural position. These ligaments can be pushed to their limits and can stretch out or break if not well supported. This can happen if the bosom dramatically grows for nursing or as we age. When this happens the breasts start to fall out of their normal shape and will lower and change in firmness. While for some this is unimportant, for others it is desirable to keep the ladies up and at attention.
A sports bra can encapsulate or compress the breasts. One style will usually better suit each individual. To best understand what happens to your bosoms when you are active stand naked in front of a mirror and jump or jog on the spot. Observe how the breasts move around, up, down, back and forth, side to side. Imagine running without a bra or even without a supportive bra. Hardly fair for the ladies, is it?
To get the best support and the most comfort try one of the following types of bras:
Try a bra that encapsulates the breasts, which will control the movement in all of the above directions. It will pull in on the sides, separate in the middle, support from below and contain the upward bounce. This bra will be most noticeable by its non-stretch upper band that rests above the bosom.
You can also try a compression bra that pushes the ladies down, pancake-ing them to the chest wall. The result is often less movement because less of the bosom comes away from the body. These bras are recognized by the lack of individual cups and a band like structure across the chest.
When trying on sports bras it is best to work with a bra fitter who understands your size and the product you are trying. She takes information about what your activity is and brings you appropriate styles. A bra fitter will have you try different styles to help you find the style you will like best for your activity and lifestyle. As well, she will ask you to jump or jog on the spot so you can compare the support of the different bras you are trying.
Bras come in cups A-J cup, 28-44 back! With this many sizes it makes sense to find the one that best suits your individual shape. A sports bra is just as important as a good pair of shoes and should be replaced when the band has stretched out.
Tips for shopping without a bra fitter:
1. When the bra is on make sure you have pulled your bosoms into the cup to confirm you are filling out the cup.
2. Make sure the straps have been adjusted so they are comfortable to shrug. Alert: If you are shorter and there is no strap adjuster, beware that you may not have the ability to adjust the tension to properly support you.
3. Replicate movements that you will be making in your activity to make sure there are no restrictions or friction.
4. Jump or jog on the spot to confirm you are receiving the support you need.
At secrets from your sister we offer a great fitting service, so come on in and let us help you find a great supportive sports bra. As an extra motivating factor…this month $1 from every sports bra sold will be put towards a small business loan which will go to a lucky member of Kiva.
Next month tune in for:
Tips for moms: When to get your daughter her first sports bra.
This post was written by guest blogger, Jennifer Klein. Jennifer is the owner of secrets from your sister.
