Choose a bra with support features that will make it comfortable for the workout you’re doing. “High-impact bras are great for running, jumping, weight training, etc., whereas low-impact sports bras are good for activities such as yoga, and Pilates,” Amanda Barton says. She adds that the support level you need usually corresponds to your activity intensity. verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{

She adds that you should ensure the bra offers full cup coverage and separation without any gaping or pinching. Before shopping, try using a tailor’s measuring tape or a bra fitting professional like Laporte to help you find your band and bust size. Then follow product measuring charts, professional recommendations, and your comfort level for the best success. Nolte, K., Burgoyne, S., Nolte, H., Van Der Meulen, J., & Fletcher, L. (2016). The Effectiveness of a Range of Sports Bras in Reducing Breast Displacement During Treadmill Running and Two-Step Star Jumping. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 56(11), 1311–1317. Adjustable straps and bands provide a customizable fit, which can be beneficial for larger breasts or varying workout intensities. A bra with adjustable straps should be carefully chosen and fitted, says Laporte.The impact level describes the type of activity that the bra would be suited for,'' Ferriter says. “High-impact bras will be for your higher impact movement, like running, jumping, HIIT training, and plyometric work. Lower-impact will be best for activities like walking, jogging, strength training, and even walking around town.” Medium impact is between support levels and is great for activities like cycling, barre, and studio fitness classes. We love that this high-coverage option is available in sizes that are based on both your band and cups for the perfect fit. Choose from three neutral colors. If you require a high level of support for your bust size or activity type, it’s important to look for medium- or high-support bras with compression that will hold your breasts to your chest wall. Also, search for encapsulation support, which usually comes from separate internal cups that hold and support your breasts individually. This will prevent pain or strain while exercising. Adjustability and Closures The band should fit snug, and the cups of the bra should lay smooth, with all breast tissue contained inside,” Heather Laporte says. “Straps should hold very minimal weight. Choose a bra that has adjustable straps for comfort and support.”

All three support levels have specially designed materials and structures appropriate to their intended use. “High-impact sports bras are designed to meet the extra demands of any active lifestyle,” Laporte says. “They have stronger, more supportive materials than low-impact sports bras and have a different construction overall that makes them more supportive to guarantee less up and down movement of the breast.”But that's not all there is to it. Trust us, even if you're a long-serving member of the itty-bitty committee, don't be fooled into thinking your sports bra size doesn’t matter. A sports bra fitted to your size and with the right support level will minimize the impact of your chest’s movement during exercise, allowing you to exercise pain-free. Made for high-impact moves, the molded cups separate and support to keep bounce at bay (which can be especially helpful for larger busts). Best of all, the band, straps, and edges are soft and body-smoothing, yet don’t dig in. Low-impact sports bras have light compression and a more minimal support structure for light activities like stretching, walking, yoga, and barre. They usually have thinner straps and bands, which sometimes make them less ideal for larger breasts. Medium-impact sports bras have more compression, internal structure, and wider straps. They’re a good choice for activities like cycling, barre, studio fitness classes, and shorter, less-intense runs. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications.