Choosing the right workout attire is essential to a comfortable and enjoyable workout. One of the most important pieces of your workout wardrobe is none other than the sports bra. Finding a sports bra that offers ample support but doesn’t feel like a rib-crushing torture device, however, can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. To learn how to choose the right sports bra and start having a more enjoyable exercise experience, check out these helpful tips.
Get Your Measurements
One of the most common sports bra faux pas is simply choosing the wrong size. Women tend to wear bras with a larger cup size and a smaller band size than they need. To find a better fit and avoid discomfort, make sure to measure your chest before purchasing a sports bra.
To do so, measure your rib cage just below your bust and then the fullest part of your bust. Once you compare your measurements with a size chart to determine your ideal fit, avoid sizing down. While many people size down their sports bras because they believe it will provide them with more support, doing so is often unnecessary and results in excessive constriction.
Determine What Level of Support You Need
Once you have determined your ideal size, it’s time to figure out how much support you’ll need. Sports bras often come in three ranges of support: low, medium, and high. The amount of support necessary to keep you comfortable during exercise will largely depend on your cup size and the activity you’re doing.
If you are engaging in low-impact activities such as walking or yoga, a sports bra with low support may suffice. However, if you plan to participate in high-impact activities such as running or mountain biking, opt for a sports bra with a higher level of support. You should also keep your chest size in mind when determining support. Those with smaller chests may be comfortable in lighter-weight sports bras with narrower straps and bands, while those with larger chests may require sports bras with wide bands, adjustable shoulder straps, and hook-loop closures for optimal support.
To test the support of a sports bra, try it on and run or jump in place. If there is a significant amount of movement up and down or side to side, you’ll likely need a more supportive bra to stay comfortable.
Pay Attention to the Details
After addressing the two main features necessary in choosing the right sports bra, it’s time to focus on the details. For example, take a look at the material of the bra. An ideal sports bra should be breathable, moisture-wicking, lightweight, and offer good ventilation for optimum comfort. As such, read the label and keep an eye out for materials such as nylon, spandex, and polyester, which are ideal activewear fabrics.
In addition to the material, consider whether the bra has an underwire, what type of straps it has, if it includes padding, and whether it has closures. The presence or absence of these features will largely depend on your personal preference, but they are considerations to keep in mind when searching for your ideal sports bra.
Cozi Bear Boutique offers a wide range of cute activewear attire, from sports bras to legging. To create a stylish and comfortable workout wardrobe, shop our collection today.