BoobS!!!!!!!!!

Boobs!!! They come in all different shapes and sizes and no two are the same.  Usually the left one is bigger!

I would say (sweepingly) that many women have a love/hate relationship with their breasts through their lives.   They get in the way during sport, hurt at certain times of the month, can feel heavy and full yet look great in the right outfit.  Breastfeeding is one of the most delightful and nurturing activities and I loved the bond it built between me and my baby.  Many years ago I used to host bra fitting clinics as I felt there was a real lack of availability and good advice on selecting the right sports bra.  I still think there is a lack of availability for women to be able to go somewhere and try on different sizes and styles so they get the one that fits the best.   So why am I talking boobs as a physio?  Well did you know that attached from the chest wall into the breasts are strong ligament type structures called Coopers Ligaments.  They keep the breast lifted and are susceptible to damage if they are over loaded.  When women start running they are encouraged to buy fancy new trainers but often neglect to buy proper high impact running bras.  These are vital to support the delicate ligaments which if damaged can contribute to breast ptosis (sagging).  There is a Research department for Breast Health at Portsmouth University who are leaders in breast health and scientific studies into all things breast related including sports bras.  They test sports bras to find the best style and fit.

 

Through some of their research studies they have found that running in inadequate support can lead to

• Increased perceived exertion – suggesting exercise feels harder when breasts are not properly supported.
• Increased upper body muscle activity – suggesting fatigue may be reached sooner.
• Increased ground reaction forces – which may increase the risk of injury to the lower extremities.
• Decreased stride length (by 4cm) – suggesting the wearer is hesitant to stride out. This could mean running an extra mile over the length of a marathon.

So my point is this!  Ladies go and check your running bras.  You should really replace them between 6 and 12 months depending on how much you use it.  This is much more important than changing your trainers.  There is no evidence that says new trainers prevent injury or make you run any more efficiently and the sale of ridiculously priced trainers is a pure marketing marvel.  You can however, damage your breast tissue without adequate support.  I’m going to have a good clear out and get me some snazzy new ones.  Sadly as I mentioned I still don’t think this is an area of women’s running gear that is well represented as whenever  I have visited a store the sizes have been limited and the styles often more fashion based.  So where can I go to get a proper bra fitting?? Good question.  Stores such as John Lewis do a bra fitting service but in my experience their sizes are often limited.  Boobydo in Derby offer an in person or virtual fitting and seem to be one of the leaders in sports bras.  Have you had experience in using their services?? I would love to hear if so.

This is a really good round up of the best sports bras in 2024 and the Brooks Dare Racerback comes out on top for comfort and support.  However, it took me a while to find one online but I managed to bag one for £38.99 with free delivery.

**EDIT- despite trying to order one from Debenhams it seems the order doesn’t wan to go through.  I am going to keep searching and see what I can find

So ladies go and check your sports bras and throw out the ones older than a year.  Your boobs will thank you.

The best running bras 2025 – Women’s Running

I would love to hear what you wear and where you get yours from.