Life is an Adventure

A great fitting sports bra is a must. If your bra doesn’t fit properly, you could be setting yourself up for injury as the ligaments that hold up your breasts stretch (and even if you’re not hurt, stretched out ligaments lead to saggy breasts — no one wants that!). However, a great fitting bra does more than just protect you from injury and sagging breasts. If you’re wearing the wrong size, you could be faced with back pain, shoulder strain and even headaches that could keep you out of the gym. Take a critical look at your sports bras and make sure you’re wearing the size that’s right for you.

 

1) Forget The Number

The size on your sports bra doesn’t matter — it’s the fit that’s important. So, forget what’s on the tag. As any woman knows, sizes can vary wildly between companies and even styles from the same manufacturer. The most important thing is how the bra fits. After all, no one but you knows what number is on the tag.

 

2) Is Your Bra Too Big?

Whether you purchased the wrong size or you’re wearing a bra that’s been stretched out beyond recognition, there are ways to tell if your bra is too big. A bra that’s too big will gap, sag and bag all the while leaving your breasts unsupported as you exercise. If your straps are too big, they’ll be constantly sliding off your shoulders, something that’s annoying no matter what you’re doing. However, the opposite is true — if your straps are digging into your shoulders, that’s a key sign that your band size is too big because your shoulders are carrying the load, so to speak.

 

If the tops of the cups stick out from your breasts or bunch up, then you’re likely wearing a bra with the wrong cup size. The bra is also too big if your breasts are moving around within the cups or while you jog in place. If either of these occur, take your cup size down a letter.

 

3) Is Your Bra Too Small?

If you’re wearing a bra that’s too small, you could be plagued with unsightly rolls of ‘back fat.’ Even the most slender women can have their skin bunch up if the band of their bra is too small. Have you ever seen a skinny girl wearing jeans that are too tight? Even a size two can have the dreaded muffin top if she’s wearing a pair of size zero jeans and the same can happen with your bra. Also, check your skin after you remove your bra. If you have a red band around your torso or difficulty breathing, then it’s too tight.

 

If your breasts are spilling out over your bra and look lumpy under your shirt, you’re probably wearing the wrong cup size. Also, lift up your arms and make sure your cup is fully covering the side of the breast. If your cup isn’t, the cup size is too small so size up.

 

4) How To Find The Perfect Size

Having a professional bra fitting is the best way to know if you’ve got the right size. Although you might be embarrassed about having a stranger measure your breasts, don’t be! The women who conduct professional bra fittings have seen it all — it’s very likely you don’t have anything they haven’t seen before.

 

If you’re feeling shy though, just get out your tape measure. Your perfect bra depends on your bust measurement minus your rib cage measurement, plus 3 or 5, depending on your size. Then, if possible, try on the bra before you buy. If you like to shop online (and who doesn’t!), buy multiple sizes and styles so you can ensure you’re receiving a perfect fit.

 

Wearing the right size sports bra does more than just keep you supported. The right bra can help you look great, even at the gym. If you’re not thinking about your sports bra while you exercise, you’re probably wearing the right one. If you’re bouncing or sliding around, or you’re having problems breathing, it’s time to get shopping!

 

More Bra Resources:

Five Specialty Bras to Fit Your Healthy Lifestyle

Six Shapewear Tips For Getting A Slim Look While Staying Healthy

The Ultimate Bra Fit Checklist for Looking Good and Feeling GREAT

 

About the Author:

 

Cindy Prosser is a former underwear model turned freelance writer and mommy. She’ll happily commit to wearing her Enell Sports Bra so long as she’s not obligated to do any exercise She does occasionally get out for a run with the jog stroller when she’s not busy writing for Bare Necessities.