( WOMEN ’ S HEALTH )
TOP TIPS TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT SPORTS BRA
Triumph bra stylist Paula Svoboda helps you choose the right sports bra .
nfortunately there are a lot of
U women out there wearing illfitting bras . In fact research by Triumph shows 78 per cent of women across the globe are wearing an incorrect size . And if you are wearing the wrong sized regular bra , you are probably wearing the wrong sports bra . Ill-fitting sports bras are not only uncomfortable , they can lead to back , shoulder , breast or neck pain .
Women believe that sag is often due to the size of your breasts , but it ’ s not . The stress of movement on the breast is what causes the fatty tissue and ligaments to stretch and sag over time , irrespective of your size ; even if you are an A cup , it is as important to wear a correctly supportive bra as those who wear an E . Your sports bra should fit tightly around the under-band , as this is where the majority of the support comes from , and in a sports bra this should feel tighter than an everyday bra . Look for good coverage at the side and top of the breast , and ensure the fabric is tight over the bust . The straps are there to hold the bra in place and shouldn ’ t be rubbing or digging in at the shoulder .
Effective sports bras that minimise bounce and are the right fit for your exercise of choice are crucial to reducing breast discomfort during exercise . Bounce control is a scientific measure that monitors breast movement in all directions – forward / backward , side / side and up / down – and provides an overall reduction in percentage of breast movement .
Women of today lead an active lifestyle .
They exercise to get healthy but it ’ s also often a social opportunity . In this sociable sporting climate , style-driven women want to look good and have outstanding support . They want to be able to wear their sportswear to the gym , in the street or to a café with friends . They don ’ t want to compromise style for function and vice versa .
What should you look for in a sports bra ?
The most important thing with any sports bra for any activity , is to get fitted properly . I recommend getting professionally fitted for a sports bra once to twice a year . This may sound like a lot , but your body is constantly changing and without a properly fitting bra , you can compromise your comfort and support . Here is a guide as to which bra is best suited to which activity .
HIIT
As High Intensity Interval Training ( HIIT ) often involves movements from burpees and squat jumps , to sprints , push ups , sit ups or lunges , a sports bra that offers extreme support and comfort is recommended . You will also build up quite a sweat during this style of exercise , so you want to be sure the bra is made with moisture management fabrics . For these HIIT-style workouts you ’ ll also want to opt for a bra with extreme bounce control , comfort and lightness .
Paula recommends :
1 . Triumph Triaction Extreme Lite N An ultra-lightweight feminine sports bra with no padding or underwire , the
Extreme Lite naturally contours the body . Due to the dynamic design , high neckline and non-moulded cups , this innovation has an impressive 77 per cent certified overall extreme bounce control test rating . With adjustable strap features and on-trend anti-perspiration zones built into the style , the design assures moisture control , impeccable support and comfort . There is also a minimal amount of seams inside the bra for added comfort , making it ideal for floor-based exercises . AU $ 69.95 NZ $ 69.95
2 . Triumph Hybrid Lite P The Hybrid Lite sports bra shapes women ’ s curves with lightly padded spacer cups and has a 74 per cent overall bounce control support rating . It offers all bust sizes exceptional support , extreme lightness and soft comfort during any activity . Not only does the feminine bra have outstanding moisture control and breathability , it is invisible underneath clothing , making it a stylish bra for ultimate bounce control . AU $ 74.95 NZ $ 74.95
RUNNING
The stress of movement on the breast when running is what can cause your fatty tissue and ligaments to stretch and sag over time , irrespective of your size .
Paula recommends :
1 . Triumph Triaction Control Lite W Control Lite is a minimiser sports bra , reducing bust projection by one cup size and offering 78 per cent overall bounce control it is one of the best in the market . With an impeccable fit up to an E cup ,
26 OH ! MAGAZINE ( MARCH 2017 )