The perfect sports bra

If you’re working out you need the perfect sports bra. Here’s why…

A good sports bra is key to a successful workout. It can make or break a training session, and we’re all aware that wearing a bad one (or a good one with an incorrect fit) results in the worst distraction in the world. So, it’s time to wise up and learn exactly what we should be looking for when purchasing. Research shows that 25 per cent of women cut their workout short because of discomfort in their breasts – don’t let that be you! With help from sportswear company Oldo, we have bundled together a list of key must-have sports bra features. Plus, see the sports bras we love the most.

Support

Did you know that even when you’re walking, breasts move an average of 9cm with each step – and that’s not just up and down, but side to side too? So imagine the impact when you’re pushing yourself by running or doing burpees. Damage to your breasts is irreversible, so don’t brush pain aside during your workout, the chances are that you’ll make things a whole lot worse in the long run.

Comfort

Maximum comfort will help to achieve high performance. Look for padding, moulded cups and adjustable straps to increase the comfort level of a sports bra.

Ventilation

As with the rest of your sportswear, a good sports bra should breathe. Look for temperature-controlled fabrics to reduce sweating and increase comfort, keeping you dry and cool. 

Decreased bounce

Research shows that breast pain is an issue for one in three marathon runners, and you can see why. By reducing the ‘bounce’ impact with a sports bra, you are reducing the risk of muscle tear and sagging. It is important to wear a sports bra that fits you correctly, one that fits firmly but is not too tight. Breast bouncing can be reduced by 75 per cent with a good sports bra, so choose wisely.

Style

The right style is dependent on the size of your bust as well as the activity you are engaging in. Thicker straps are necessary for women with a larger bust; and more padding can be needed if the activity you are doing is a higher-impact form of exercise.

A third of women wear the wrong size sports bra. But by choosing wisely, we can eliminate all the unnecessary pain, stress and distraction that comes with having boobs! Take that, Mother Nature!

Bras we love

The Odlo Flex High Sports Bra

The Odlo Flex High Sports Bra is tailored to your needs as an athlete, while also taking into account your size and shape. The supportive moulded inner layer gives you a more fitted support and a range of different sizes cater to varying female bodies to suit specific activities.

£39.60, odlo.com

Adidas TechFit Base Bra

This medium-support bra is for workouts such as elliptical training and hiking. It’s not only supportive and easy to move in but has technology such as climacool ventilation that releases heat and lets air flow, and techfit that focuses your muscles’ energy to generate maximum explosive power, acceleration and long-term endurance.

£21.95, adidas.co.uk

Asics Zero Distraction Bra

This high-support bra from Asics is designed to keep everything in place. It uses a combination of extra-strength fabric and support construction to reduce bounce and prevent downward and upward movement. It’s everything you need. Perfect.

£48, asics.com

Karrimor Urban Running Sports Bra Ladies

Crafted to provide a cool and comfortable fit, this bra has targeted ventilation around the chest area with adjustable straps and a front zip fastening purely to provide you with the maximum amount of comfort possible during your workout.

£24.99, sportsdirect.com