Leg wobbles and arm jiggles are perfectly normal – but if your bosoms are bouncing more than they should, it might be time to update your workout wardrobe. Learn the importance of picking the right sports bra with these expert tips on how to find one that fits
Words: Amy Dowrick | Images: Shutterstock
Whether it’s HYROX, Pilates or running groups, women are quickly shaping the fitness industry at an impressive rate – but there are still a significant number of us who are exercising without adequate support. Research shows that up to 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size, while 41% don’t wear a sports bra at all when working out.
“Breast support is essential during exercise,” says Jessica Grace, Sports Bra Fitter at boobydoo, the UK’s leading specialist sports bra experts. “Breasts have limited natural support and can move considerably during activity, which can lead to discomfort, distraction and strain on the breast tissue. A correctly fitted sports bra can reduce this movement by up to 83%.”
But sports bra sizing isn’t straightforward, and many women assume their everyday bra size will translate directly – but variations in design, compression and brand sizing mean this is rarely the case.
Why you should wear a sports bra
Unlike everyday bras, sports bras are engineered specifically to reduce movement during exercise. Support levels can vary depending on the activity, from low-impact workouts like yoga to high-impact sports such as running – but inconsistent sizing means many women rely on guesswork.
Five ways to check if your sports bra fits
According to Jessica, a well-fitting sports bra should feel secure through the band, fully contain the breast tissue and sit comfortably on the shoulders without digging in. She says to keep an eye out for these details:
- Swoop and scoop: Lean forward and guide all breast tissue into the cups.
- Band: Should sit straight across your back with slight stretch, without riding up. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the band (new bras should fit on the loosest hook).
- Cups: No gaping or spillage; breasts should feel fully encased.
- Straps: Should stay in place without digging in.
- Movement test: Jump or twist – you should feel supported, not restricted.
When to replace your sports bra
Just like any piece of clothing, sports bras don’t last forever, and over time, the fabric and elastic will lose their strength – reducing breast support.
According to Jessica, most sports bras should be replaced every 6–12 months, depending on how often they’re worn and washed. If you think one might be on its way out, double check for stretched bands or straps, increased bounce, and chafing – and if you’ve also started to fasten up on the tightest hook, your size may have changed.
How to pick the right one
Finding the right sports bra also comes down to access and inclusivity, and many women struggle to find suitable options due to limited size ranges across the market.
Brand boobydoo, a company known for its personalised sports bra fitting service, addresses this by offering an extensive range of sports bras from band sizes 26–54 and cup sizes AA–K. Specialising in high-impact and activity-specific styles, their mission is to help every active woman find the right fit – regardless of size, shape or sport.
And by prioritising inclusivity, they aim to make comfort, confidence and performance accessible to all, helping women see improved results both in and out of sports.
The rise of virtual fittings
Seeking expert guidance shouldn’t be difficult, and a rise in virtual fitting appointments allows women to receive personalised advice from home.
Sports bra experts at boobydoo offer their own virtual fitting service, and have helped over 200,000 women find their correct sports bra fit through their appointments. During these sessions, trained fitting experts guide customers through measuring, assessing fit and selecting styles tailored to their needs – without having to travel to a store.
Top sports bras for women
Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra
Top Sante verdict
This multi award winning bra is unbeatable when it comes to sports bras for running. With features like the Infinity-8 system it reduces breast movement by up to 78%- Soft, seamless inner reduces rubbing or chafing
- Non-slip, wide padded adjustable straps
- Reflective tape across cups for high visibility
- Made from moisture-wicking, breathable fabric, sports performance fabrics
triaction by Triumph Energy Lite
Top Sante verdict
Crafted with advanced technology, this wireless padded bra offers reliable support while maintaining exceptional comfort throughout your training- Medium-coverage sports bra design
- High-coverage scoop mesh neckline
- Maximum comfort for distraction-free training
- Wireless and padded construction
Panache Sport Power Wired Sports Bra – Seasonal
Top Sante verdict
Panache’s Ultimate sports bra is perfect for ladies with a D+ cup. The super smooth shape and flat seams work to accent your silhouette, not flatten it, reducing breast movement by up to 83%- Optional J-Hook and adjustable straps allow you to customise your level of comfort and support
- Cushioned Shoulder straps
- Seam-free, moulded inner cups
Sportjock Action Padded Sports Bra
Top Sante verdict
The Sportjock Action is a compression style sports bra that has been specially designed for A-C cups for medium to high impact activities such as running, cycling, hiking and gym workouts- Powerband technology provides comfortable support that won’t ride up as you move
- The racerback features a keyhole design to ensure proper ventilation
- The double-layer construction wicks away perspiration and keeps you dry
And as female participation in sports continues to rise, so too does the importance of proper support. A professional sports bra fitting – whether in-person or online – can significantly improve comfort, confidence and freedom of movement, helping women perform at their best.
boobydoo is a Derby-based specialist retailer and fitter of sports bras, providing expert breast health support for women in sport and physical activity. The business works with elite sports teams, schools, universities, the military and emergency services across the UK. For more information about boobydoo, visit https://boobydoo.co.uk
