If you are planning to engage in regular exercise then one of the essentials that you need is a good sports bra. Sports bras are specifically designed to help you work out more efficiently. They are able to provide support that can withstand motion and they are made from fabrics that can absorb sweat and moisture. Here are some guidelines that can help you find the best sports bra for your body.
Find the Right Fit
If you want to find a sports bra that will deliver maximum comfort during exercise then you need to ensure a proper fit. You can achieve this by measuring your bust size before shopping for a sports bra. Bust size can be affected by several factors such as childbirth, weight loss, weight gain, menopause and other bodily changes, so it might not be a good idea to follow the size of the last bra that you bought. Armed with the information of your specific bust size and cup size, you can then feel confident that you will find the right size of bra.
Determine Your Level of Activity
The objective of a sports bra is to provide breast support while you are in motion. Therefore, it's important to determine your level of activity. If you will be engaging in high-impact exercises, you will naturally need a sports bra that can give you the highest amount of support. High-impact exercises include running, step aerobics, mountain biking, horseback riding, basketball and other ball sports. However, if you will be trying low-impact exercises such as walking, yoga or weight training then you can choose sports bras that offer less support.
Find the Right Construction and Style
Once you have determined your cup size and level of activity, it's time to find the sports bra style that's right for you. Basically, sports bras are constructed in three different ways. The first construction type is compression, which holds the breasts firmly in place to restrict motion. If your cup size is A or B then this might be the ideal construction for you. If have a bust size above a D cup, encapsulation bras may be a better choice for you. They basically offer more support than classic compression bras by providing separate support for each breast. If your cup size is somewhere in the middle then there are combination bras that provide both compression and encapsulation.
Consider the Features
When shopping for a sports bra, it's also important to check the features of the bra. An important feature to consider is the band. Contrary to what you might think, the main support of a bra actually comes from the band and not the shoulder straps. The wider the band is, the more support it offers. You should also check the straps of the sports bra to make sure they offer minimal stretch. Make sure the straps are adjustable so you can customize them. Consider the fabric as well. A sports bra should be made of fabric that can effectively absorb sweat in order to keep you comfortable.
