Some brands of sports bras fasten in the front, making them easier to put on.
Women's breasts are held up by a ligament that can become stretched out with excessive bouncing of the breasts, causing them to sag. Active women with large breasts often experience pain and discomfort while working out, due to an ill-fitting sports bra. Sports bras should provide strong support and fit comfortably without chafing, poking or sagging. If your workouts are painful or uncomfortable and you cannot resolve the issues with your current sports bra, it may be best to find a new one that fits you properly.
Instructions
1. Determine why you are having difficulty with your current sports bra. If you experience chafing during your workout, or if your breasts bounce uncomfortably, tighten the straps to keeps the breasts in place and prevent the bra from moving against your skin. If seams or hardware are causing discomfort, sew a small piece of felt over the offending area to pad it against your skin. If you have difficulty putting on a sports bra that slips over the head, or if you cannot resolve any of these other issues, shop for a new sports bra.
2. Determine your band size. Wrap the measuring tape around your rib cage just below your bust, keeping it parallel to the floor all the way around. Exhale and tighten the tape so it feels very snug. Round up the measurement to the nearest number if it includes an increment of an inch. If the measurement is an even number, add 4 inches; if it's odd, add 5 inches. Write down this number.
3. Determine your cup size. Wear a non-padded bra, stand up straight with your arms at your sides and have a friend wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the measuring tape parallel to the floor all the way around. Round up to the nearest number if your measurement includes an increment of an inch. Write down this number.
4. Determine your bra size. Subtract your band size from your cup size. Write down the difference and use it to determine your standard cup size using this chart:
0-1/2 inch: AA
1/2 to 1 inch: A
2 inches: B
3 inches: C
4 inches: D
5 inches: DD
6 inches: DDD
7 inches: G
8 inches: H
9 inches: I
10 inches: J
Your bra size is the band size and your standard cup size, for example, 38C or 40D.
5. Take your measurements to a store with a sportswear section for larger women. Look for sports bras that specify cup and band size rather than those labeled "large." Avoid sports bras that slip over your head, as they do not support large breasts as effectively as those that fasten with hooks and have a separate cup for each breast. Sports bras should be made from material that wicks away moisture, such as nylon.
6. Try on a variety of bras in your size. The band should fit snugly but comfortably when fastened on the first set of hooks. The cups should fit snugly against the breasts. Your breasts should not jiggle when you jump around, and the bra should not poke you or chafe your skin when you move your arms and body.
7. Do not buy a bra that doesn't fit properly. Be patient and hold out for a bra that will provide the support and comfort you need for a safe, enjoyable workout.
Tags: inches inches, inches inches inches, band size, your size, sports bras
