Learn How to Choose the Right Sports Bra

Shopping for a new sports bra isn't usually a cause for celebration. That's because most women don't feel empowered about how to select the right bra for their athletic needs. The right athletic bra can be sporty, spicy, and sexy if you know what to look for. This is your guide to shopping for the perfect bra for all your athletic endeavors.

The Right Fit for Getting Fit

Shopping for a workout bra has a different set of rules than shopping for traditional bras and lingerie. Unlike bras and lingerie which should always fit true to size, an athletic bra should be purchased to fit snugly. In fact, when you try on an athletic bra for the first time, it should feel slightly tight and restricting. This will ensure that your bust is properly secured during running, stretching, and other cardio movemeants. Over time, the fabric of the athletic bra will stretch. You should test the bra by doing light activity like jogging in place or lifting your arms repeatedly to make sure that the bra stays in place without shifting. A bra which fits "just right" or slightly loose is likely to stretch over time and become unsupportive. However, selecting a bra which is simply too tight or too small is also a risk. When trying on a bra, the straps and shoulder supports should never feel as though they are digging into your skin. You should also be able to comfortably inhale and exhale without a struggle.

Is a Single Band for You?

The traditional athletic bra design is one which features a single elastic band which aligns under the bust. This style is what is know as a "compression bra" because it restrains and compresses your bust in order to decrease the impact of physical movemeant which can cause pain or injury.

Separate Cups Might be Your Style

Some women find that the above meantioned "compression bra" which relies on a single elastic band for support, offers too little support for their needs. The alternative to this style are athletic bras which feature two cups for individual support. This style of bras are called "encapsulated bras" and they are ideal for women who have larger bust lines or who simply like a very tight and secure fit. These bras typically feature a plastic or metal wire which trims the cups. Whether you are going to the gym, running the track, or getting your sweat on in the comfort of your home, having a sports bra with the right fit is the first step to fitness.