All women know just how hard (or at the very least, tricky) it is to find the perfect sports bra. One day you’re jogging comfortably through the park; the next, you’re adjusting your bra straps mid-workout, wishing that your sports bra offered more support. This can happen even when you think you’re wearing the right bra for your chosen activity.
If you’ve ever wondered when it’s time to invest in an extra support sports bra, know that you aren’t alone.
Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting your fitness journey started, knowing when to upgrade your bra is essential for comfort, performance, and even your breast health. Here’s when to know that you need an extra support sports bra:
Why Support Matters More Than You Think
First things first, let’s talk about why you might need an extra support sports bra. If you think skipping out on proper support isn’t a big deal, think again – it could make a difference in how your body feels years down the line.
Breasts have little to no muscle, which means that they rely on ligaments and skin for support. These ligaments, known as Cooper’s ligaments, are delicate and can stretch over time due to excessive movement. Unfortunately, once they stretch, they don’t bounce back.
That’s where a good sports bra comes in. A sports bra that offers high support minimizes movement, reducing the strain on these aforementioned ligaments and preventing discomfort, as well as long-term sagging.
High-Impact Activities: The Ultimate Test
The first and most obvious time you’ll need an extra support sports bra is during high-impact activities. Running, jumping, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), or even sports like basketball and tennis are only a few examples of these. These activities typically involve a lot of up-and-down and side-to-side movement, which can leave you feeling uncomfortable and unsupported in a regular bra.
A basic sports bra might be fine for a yoga class or a casual walk, but once you crank up the intensity, you need something that can keep up. Extra support sports bras are designed with firmer materials, wider straps, and often an underband that stays in place no matter how much you move. If you’re experiencing bounce or discomfort during these high-impact sessions, it’s time to upgrade.
Larger Busts Need More Love
If you have a larger bust, then you already know that the struggle is real. Finding a bra that offers enough support without digging into your shoulders or causing back pain can feel like a full-time job! For women with larger breasts, even low-impact activities like walking or cycling can cause discomfort without the right support.
In this case, an extra support sports bra isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. You want one that’s equipped with features that cater specifically to your shape, such as adjustable straps, a wide underband, and encapsulated cups (which separate and support each breast individually). These details make a huge difference in how you feel during your workouts and can even help prevent posture issues.
Post-Surgery or Pregnancy: Special Circumstances
Life can throw you curveballs, and sometimes your body will go through changes that require a little extra TLC. If you’ve recently undergone breast surgery – whether it’s augmentation, reduction, or a mastectomy – your breasts need extra support during the healing process. An extra support sports bra can help reduce swelling, protect surgical sites, and promote healing by minimizing movement. Always check with your doctor if a specific sports bra would suit your individual situation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are other times when your breasts might need more support than usual. Hormonal changes can cause your breast size to fluctuate, and the added weight can lead to discomfort or even pain. Investing in a supportive bra during these stages can make a world of difference in how you feel day-to-day.
Anita’s EXTREME CONTROL Sports Bra is the Extra Support Sports Bra You Need
If you’ve been searching for a sports bra that offers maximum support, then check out Anita Active’s EXTREME CONTROL sports bra.
Designed for high-impact activities, this solution-based sports bra features three-section cups that are supported at the sides with an ingenious side sling solution. You won’t find a better sports bra that offers additional support! Visit the Anita website now to purchase yours: it’s available in a wide variety of colors and in an inclusive size range.
