In recent years, more women have adopted the habit of wearing sports bras. Some argue that wearing sports bras during exercise can lead to breast sagging due to insufficient support, which is detrimental to breast health in the long run. However, a registered physiotherapist believes that wearing a sports bra during exercise involving jumping or large movements may increase muscle strain, potentially causing sternal sprains and strains.

Reporter & Photographer: Wong Ching-lam

Editor: Wong Wai-king

Wearing a Sports Bra During Jumping Can Cause Strains

Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and registered physiotherapist Chan Kwok-ching believes that for low-intensity exercise, there is little difference between wearing a sports bra and a sports bra. However, for high-intensity exercise or activities involving jumping, such as running or boxing, a sports bra is superior. He points out that during exercise, a woman's breasts bounce up and down, easily straining the sternum, putting pressure on the upper back, and adding extra strain to the muscles, leading to upper back and neck pain. Because sports bras are elastic and provide appropriate pressure, they allow room for the breasts to move during exercise, reducing downward pull and preventing extra strain on the upper back. They also help maintain proper posture and provide adequate support for the breasts. He added that a key characteristic of sports bras is that they are one-piece designs without a specific pressure point; the pressure distribution is more even, thus avoiding extra strain on any part of the body.

Registered physical therapist Hu Daoming also pointed out that during exercise, the amplitude of breast movement exceeds 9 centimeters. Wearing a bra during exercise can potentially cause strain injuries to the ligaments in the breasts due to this vibration. Furthermore, the bra straps and underwire can rub against the skin during exercise, causing injury. He added that women with a bra size of "C" or larger especially need to wear sports bras during strenuous exercise to prevent muscle strain and to prevent the breasts from sagging due to excessive upward and downward pulling during movement.

Comfort is paramount for sports bras.

Currently, major sports brands are promoting fashionable sports bras, resulting in a wide variety of products on the market. So how should women choose a sports bra? Dr. Chen Guozheng believes that "comfort is the most important thing!" He points out that choosing a sports bra is like buying shoes—it's a very personal choice. Therefore, you must try it on before buying. When trying it on, try jumping around and taking deep breaths. Generally speaking, sports bras tend to be tighter, but as long as it doesn't restrict breathing and feels comfortable, it's fine. He reminds women with neck and shoulder problems that they should not wear sports bras while exercising to avoid discomfort. Physical therapist Hu Daoming suggests choosing sports bras with sweat-wicking and breathable functions. When trying them on, raise your arms and take deep breaths; if it feels comfortable, it's suitable.