Running, though a great way to improve lower body strength and cardiovascular fitness, is an arch nemesis of the breast. Indeed all high impact sports and activities subject unprotected breasts to repeated, violent assaults. Without adequate support permanent structural damage, including sagging and loss of shape and perkiness, can happen. The result: thighs that can crack walnuts and breast that can sweep the shells off the floor. Unfortunately, while women have made enormous progress in gaining access to athletic opportunities, most still participate without adequate breast protection and without knowledge of the lasting damage they are doing to their bodies.Breasts are composed almost entirely of adipose tissue, less affectionately known as fat. Their only natural support systems are thin fibrous bands, called the Cooper’s Ligaments and the surrounding skin. Sadly both these structures are delicate and easily over whelmed. For active women outside support in the form of a high quality, well fitting sports bra is absolutely necessary.

There are nearly endless studies showing the benefits of regular exercise for women and girls; increased bone density, reduced stress and improved confidence to mention just a few. A 2003 study found that consistent exercise led to a significant reduction in the risk of breast cancer, by as much as 50% for women over 50 who exercised consistently for most of their lives. The conclusion; a woman who exercises regularly with proper support is not only more likely to keep her breasts but also to like the breasts she gets to keep.

Read on for helpful tips on finding the support you need and deserve.

• It’s my party and I’ll bounce if I want to. Try on several types and brands of bras and don’t be shy about bouncing around the store (or at least the dressing room). Mimic what you will be doing on the field or court and find the model that limits movement the most effectively. Unfortunately this necessary piece of sporting equipment will probably not be the cutest part of your active wardrobe. In the sports bra world there is an inverse relationship between form and function.
• Don’t be afraid of tightness. A good compression bra, the kind with one compartment, often feels like a spandex corset. Give yourself a chance to get used to this feeling and remember that you only have to wear the bra during very high impact activities.
• Buy the right bra. Compression bras without individual cups work best for smaller women. Compartment bras, which look more like traditional bras, are a good choice for larger breasted gals.
• Be prepared for sticker shock. Sports bras, like all technical sporting equipment, are expensive. Unfortunately unlike athletic shoes good they rarely go on sale. Remember this is an important piece of athletic equipment that is protecting an important part of you. Don’t skimp on yourself.
• Rate your collection. As your sports bras age, which they will do more gracefully if you don’t put them in the dryer, use them for less intense activities. An old running bra can be great for yoga and an old yoga bra might still work for walking around town. It is important to let your bras go as they weaken and become less effective.

Links:
www.titlenine.com: The best bras I’ve ever worn. They have a cool rating system that allows you to select bras based on your needs and breast size.

www.shockabsorber.co.uk/: An excellent sports bra manufacturer based in the UK. Check out the bounce-o-meter and you will never run unsupported again.

www.lessbounce.com: A wide selection of sports bras to choose from.