Sports bras for running tested | RUNNER'S WORLD

You can argue about the purpose of many pieces of equipment - but not about the need for a sports bra for runners. The sports bra is one of the most important pieces of clothing for every runner. Nevertheless, many women do not wear a bra at all or only wear an everyday bra when jogging. This is alarming. Because the breast consists of skin, fat, glands, ligaments and connective tissue: Unlike the muscles, nothing can be trained there. Without really good support, the fabric sags over time. An alarming number of women also complain about chest pains due to the strong movements when running and often prefer not to exercise.

The solution is obvious: you need a good sports bra. Because it is not that easy to find, we are presenting current models here that we have subjected to a practical test. Further down in the article you will also find valuable tips on what to look out for when buying and trying on, so that you can find your perfect sports bra.

Your training plan12 weeks of running for 30 minutes without a breakmore infoclose12 weeks of running for 30 minutes without a break

Running for half an hour at a time is the first milestone in every runner's life. Don't run straight away. It is better to cautiously move from walking to running. With our plan, even beginner runners without a sporting background can run 30 minutes at a time after three months. Without being overwhelmed!

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Sport is nothing new for you – you play football, cycle regularly or run a short lap from time to time. But now you want to take on a new challenge: running 10 kilometers in a row. With our training plan you will reach your goal within 12 weeks. At the beginning short walking breaks are planned. From training week four you can do all endurance runs without walking in between. The longest run per week increases in manageable increments from 20 minutes to 60 minutes. With this plan, you will become so fit as a career changer that you can take part in your first 10-kilometer run in just 12 weeks.

5 kilometers manage

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Sport is nothing new for you. You play soccer or cycle regularly, but you have no running experience yet. With this training plan, you can run 5 kilometers in one go in just eight weeks - without taking breaks and getting out of breath. To do this, you train three units a week alternating between running and walking. With each passing week, the running percentage increases while the walking breaks become shorter. On the weekend of the eighth week, as a career changer, you are so fit that you jog 5 kilometers without walking breaks - either just for yourself or maybe even during your first 5-kilometer run as part of a running event.

Half marathon under 2:15 hours

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You run regularly and already have competition experience. Now you want to tackle your first half marathon or beat your previous time and run under 2:15 hours. With our training plan, you train three, sometimes four times a week in varied units of speed units and gentle endurance runs - and in 12 weeks you will be fit for your half marathon under 2:15 hours.

Complete half marathon

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You've been running for a while, and maybe you've already taken part in shorter running events. Now you want to realize your running dream and dare to run your first half marathon. Time is of the essence at your premiere - the main thing is that you arrive at the finish line happy and healthy. Our training plan provides for three units a week, which are made up of endurance runs and alternative training. The weekly long run is planned with walking breaks and increases in manageable steps from 40 minutes to 120 minutes. With this plan, you will become so fit as a beginner that after 12 weeks you will reach the finish line after 21.1 kilometers with a good feeling.

Half marathon under 2:00 hours

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more infoClose12 week half marathon under 2:00 hours

You run regularly and already have competition experience, perhaps you have already run your first half marathon. Now you want to run that distance under 2:00 for the first time. With our training plan, you train four times a week in varied units of speed units and gentle endurance runs - and in 12 weeks you will be fit for your half marathon under 2:00 hours.

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Here you will find more information about the beginner training plan with two sample weeks.

We tested these sports bras

In the editorial department, we constantly test all kinds of current sports bras, running bras and sports tops. This is how current models have performed:

Brooks Drive Convertible Run Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Brooks Drive Convertible Run

This sports bra from Brooks does not have classic cups and is therefore more of a bustier, but offers very good support thanks to the firm material and the tight fit. In terms of size, the model is quite small - so feel free to choose one size larger than normal. The bustier sits well on the body and does not pinch or pinch anywhere. This is certainly due to the comfortable underbust band and the flat seams. Even without integrated cups, you have the pleasant feeling that everything stays in place when running - and at the same time you don't feel constricted. The bustier is not only suitable for running, but also for yoga or strength exercises, as nothing slips or gets in the way with these movements either.

A nice extra: the straps of the Run Bra are adjustable, so you can choose between two wearing styles. The carrying straps are put together to provide additional support. The small hook that makes this possible is actually so tiny that it doesn't bother when not in use and is also hardly visible. Conclusion: The Brooks Drive Convertible Run Bra is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable all-rounder, as the bra is not only suitable for running and is very comfortable. It is also an optimal solution between a firm sports bra and a loose bustier.

Closely High Support Sports Bra

Manufacturer

According to the website, the Closely brand is a climate-neutral company and accordingly attaches great importance to transparency, sustainability and high-quality products that can be used for a long time. Our tester found this philosophy very appealing, especially since the price of the bra was not very different from comparable models from other, less environmentally conscious brands.The test featured the High Support Sports Bra, and as the name suggests, the model offers a lot Support - and all without integrated cups. In order for this to work and not pinch anywhere, the optimal fit is important. When buying, you can therefore use the size finder that Closely offers in the online shop - or simply measure the chest circumference yourself.

Once the Sports Bra has arrived in the right size, you can see the comfort for yourself: the bustier is made of a very comfortable, slightly firmer material and has a soft underbust band and wide, adjustable straps. The material feels very high quality overall. During the test runs, the Closely Bra gave enough support and felt like a second skin. For warm-up, stretching or yoga exercises, our tester would rather go for a slightly lighter version with thinner material in order to be unrestricted in the more extreme movements. When running, however, the High Support Sports Bra is a great model that impresses with its comfort and functionality - and the high quality of the bra makes it a good companion for a long time.

Shock Absorber Run Padded Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Shock Absorber Run Padded Bra

The Shock Absorber brand specializes in maximum support during sports. That's why the company's range includes a particularly large number of high-support sports bras. The Run Padded bra is also designed for high support: the cups with integrated pads offer extreme support and ensure a safe feeling when running. The straps are adjustable and snap together to form a racerback. Due to the high support, the bra looks quite massive and looks like a lot of material. In fact, there are much lighter, more flexible bustiers or bras, but the impression is put into perspective when running: For the fact that the model is designed for maximum support, it feels very comfortable on the skin and does not constrict.

The freedom of movement is not really restricted either. This is mainly due to the wider underbust band and the clever processing of the cups without thick seams. The bra is perhaps less suitable for full-body training such as yoga or strength units. For runners who are looking for a reliable bra with a lot of support and are willing to put up with a little more material on the skin, the Run Padded bra is an ideal solution – you definitely feel safe in it when running.

Swegmark of Sweden Energy

Manufacturer

Order here: Swegmark of Sweden Energy

This model from the Swegmark of Sweden brand is referred to by the manufacturer as a "relief bra" and according to one of our testers is an absolutely classic sports bra model. But it is more of a bustier without integrated cups. The material feels pleasantly light and elastic. The underbust band and the straps are soft and slightly wider so that the bustier nestles comfortably against the skin. Since the straps can be hooked into each other at the back, you can increase the support of the bustier if necessary. Without this racerback variant, the bustier still fits well and the straps don't slip off the shoulders, although they can sometimes pinch the fasteners, as one of our testers complained. The model provides medium support when running, but is much more flexible and lighter than comparable bras with a lot of support and integrated cups thanks to the lighter and slightly thinner material. This model is therefore a great option for all runners with a larger bust size and for whom maximum support is not the top priority.

Adidas Ultimate Alpha

Manufacturer

Order here: Adidas Ultimate Alpha

The sports bra Ultimate Alpha from Adidas offers (in the test with cup sizes A to B) super-reliable support and a good fit. The relatively firm fabric also contributes to this. The fabric has more stretch in certain areas, such as at the top of the straps and at the back of the back. The combination of firm and stretchy fabric combines stability with a certain adaptability. The underbust band can also be adjusted in three stages with classic bra hooks. By the way, this is a curse and a blessing in one: If you adjust the perfect size before you put it on, it will be a bit crampy to put it on because the underbust band is too tight. Of course you get the bra on, but it's just not quite as relaxed as maybe with other bras.

Once you've put it on, you'll be happy about the firm and individual fit. You could also uncheck the box first, put on the bra and only then close the hook at the appropriate level. It's not that easy on the back, though. The breathable material as well as the perforated inner fabric in the cups and the mesh fabric in the back allow moisture to escape comfortably to the outside. "What I also like," says one tester, "are the sewn-in cups. They support the good fit, create a nice shape, cover the nipples and don't slip." Conclusion: A pretty cool-looking sports bra with great support, which could be a bit more cooperative when putting it on.

Falke Madison Low Support Sports Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Falke Madison Low Support Sports Bra

This is a classic bustier top with no fastening or adjustment options, but it is extremely cuddly and stretchy. Very, very comfortable to wear without annoying seams, but with different material zones and racer back - this ensures maximum freedom of movement for the shoulder blades. According to the description, the support is rather low, i.e. for smaller bust sizes (in our estimation up to max. B cup), but otherwise also recommended for relaxed yoga and stretching sessions. If you want, the bustier can also be worn as a top, i.e. without an additional shirt. Then the bra also scores with the many beautiful color variations in which it is available.

Anita Performance

Manufacturer

Order here: Anita Performance

The Anita Performance is a classic bra with adjustable straps and molded, unpadded cups. It has a narrow, soft underbust band, which is also very flat. The straps are slightly wider on the shoulders, but have no extra padding. However, the material is very elastic, especially under the arms, which makes the bra feel less stiff. This creates a pleasant wearing comfort, whereby the cups, in contrast to the rest of the bra, are inelastic and quite large. But if the cups fit correctly, they offer good support and the airy fabric allows the skin to be ventilated perfectly even on longer runs in higher temperatures. Our tester would definitely recommend the bra. But if you want or need more support, you should read the test report below in the article on the Air Control Delta Pad by Anita.

Here you go directly to the report of the Anita Air Control Delta Pad

Asics Color Block Bra 2

Manufacturer

Order here: Asics Color Block Bra 2

"I felt very comfortable in this bra for the entire run. Nothing pinched or was constricted," one tester praised the very comfortable fit of the Asics Color Block Bra 2. The bra falls more into the bustier or top category and also offers medium support when running due to the removable cups. Our tester noticed the Good sweat regulation, which takes place via small air holes on the back. This means that there is no strong feeling of wetness on the skin, even during strenuous and sweaty runs. The fit is ideal, especially for a small to medium cup size. Another plus point is the beautiful color combinations.

Brooks Drive Interlace Run Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Brooks Drive Interlace Run Bra

This Run Bra by Brooks can be closed like a classic bra, but cannot be fully opened due to the crossed straps. Putting it on proved difficult for our tester: "The problem is that the straps mean that you can't turn the bra forward to close the clasp. That's why you have to bend backwards every time." But as soon as this difficulty is overcome, you're wearing a very comfortable bra, which is very comfortable to wear thanks to the polyester-elastane mix in the material.

The four straps crossed over the back "find their position by themselves after the complicated putting on," said one tester. The wide underbust band, which ensures stability, the flat seams, which do not cause any risk of chafing, and the high-quality The workmanship is very positive. The support is also really good despite the light and airy material. The conclusion of our tester is accordingly largely positive: "Due to the complicated putting on, it's not necessarily my favorite bra, but purely functionally a top model .More suitable for women with up to medium bust sizes."

UYN Lady Motyon 2.0 Uw Bra High Support

Manufacturer

Order here: UYN Lady Motyon 2.0 Uw Bra High Support

"Basically, this bustier is just one piece of fabric and is probably the most comfortable bra I've ever had, while also having great support," enthused one tester. It fits perfectly in the underbust area and encloses the breasts very well. Also the straps fit perfectly and there is no feeling of pressure points. UYN praises "personalized comfort" and specifically means the compression material, which adapts individually to the body. You will look in vain for special decorations for the look, sewn-in elements or adjustment options. But the very pleasant material, which is comparable to the fabric of pantyhose that is reinforced in certain places, makes you quickly forget this fact.

In terms of support, the bra performed very well. “The material gathers so well that the chest is held from all sides. At the same time, nothing pinches anywhere, wow," reported our tester. Due to the flexibility described, the choice of size is not particularly important. Sweat regulation is also at a very high level, as a special manufacturing technique creates elevations in the material, creating a gap between the skin and the fabric Result: The bra gets a clear purchase recommendation from our tester, although it may offer too little support for large bust sizes due to the construction.

Mizuno Alpha Graphic Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Mizuno Alpha Graphic Bra

The Alpha Graphic Bra by Mizuno is a special case because it's neither a classic bustier nor a classic bra. Rather, it is a sports top that does not have any shaped cups. As a result, the hold is essentially not due to the shape, but to the gentle pressure of the material. Nevertheless, it sits very comfortably, even though the mesh used in the back area also sits on the shoulders and there is therefore no extra padding there. Since it is a top, there are no adjustment options.

There are plus points for the mesh slide-in pocket on the left side and the chest band of normal width, which feels very comfortable on the skin. The bra offers good support, especially for small busts. The fabric between the breasts is rather thick and impermeable, which is why it can get quite warm there. The bra has an airy cut on the back and also offers pleasant ventilation thanks to the high mesh insert.

Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra

ManufacturerPicture 810

Order here: Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra

The Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra, which was specially developed for running, is available in cup sizes A to F and from 70 to 95 centimeters under the bust band. "I didn't have to make any compromises when it came to choosing the size," says one tester happily. Details: wide underbust band, seamless padded straps, double breasted padded bra closure and adjustable shoulder straps that can be closed into a racer back for more support - although the bikini closure takes a bit of practice. However, you will be rewarded with excellent support and full freedom of movement. Our testers also found the padded closures on the shoulders and back particularly pleasant, and the very good workmanship was also praised. The bra is available both with padded cups (Run Bra Padded) and without additional padding.

Lululemon AirSupport Bra

Manufacturer

This model is a model in the classic bra shape, i.e. with eyelets and closure. This is adjustable in three ways, and the straps can also be adjusted. In the test we found that although the straps are not particularly wide, they do not dig in when worn. And according to our testers, the sports bra is also particularly comfortable in other ways, also thanks to the underbust band. This has an additional padding and is therefore nice and soft. The fact that, according to the manufacturer, this bra is intended to offer particularly good support to female athletes with large bust sizes, proved to be true in our test. "Fits like comfortable armor and gives a lot of support - fantastic," sums up a tester who wears bra size 80C.

Anita Active Air Control Bra

Manufacturer sports bras tested

Order here: Anita Active Air Control Bra

The comparatively light bra is available in cup sizes A to G and offers excellent support with its stable mesh fabric. "Fit and fit are fantastic," confirms a test runner, "everything holds up well even when running fast and nothing gets in the way". Padded "Deltapads" in the cups provide a lot of comfort, the small triangular soft pads are only sewn in the corners. The wide straps are lightly padded and adjustable, and the seams and workmanship of the sports bra are impeccable.

Odlo Padded High Sports Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Odlo Padded High Sports Bra

The preformed, slightly padded cups comfortably enclose the breasts and provide secure support even during intensive runs without constricting the breasts. The Odlo-Bra also forms a beautiful silhouette. We particularly liked the sturdy mesh insert between the cups, which allows for good ventilation, especially during sweaty runs; there are also mesh inserts on the sides. The adjustable straps are wide and comfortably padded, all seams are extremely flat and perfectly finished so that nothing rubs or chafes anywhere. The wide underbust band is also soft and feels comfortable on the skin. The wide triple closure on the back ensures good distribution of the tensile forces and very good, optimal wearing comfort

Maaree Empower

Manufacturer

The sports bra Maaree Empower convinced us with its well thought-out construction. The sympathetic story behind it: Mari Thomas, founder of the young British company Maaree, had been testing sports bras professionally for years. At some point she was so annoyed that even well-known manufacturers could not produce well-fitting models for large bust sizes that she took the problem into her own hands. With her Maaree brand, she has now brought out two models, both of which are absolute insider tips. The Empower is the medium support model, but still fits like a glove and is highly recommended for running.

What sets Maaree bras apart from others is their “overband technology”: the breast is not only stabilized by an underbust band, but also by a band across the breast. This noticeably reduces the up and down movements. So if you've often had the feeling of having to walk with your hands on your chest - this is the right bra for you. But the Empower is also a good choice for medium and small bust sizes. Like hardly any other bra, it forms a great silhouette thanks to the high cut, without sewn-in padding or the like. Recycled nylon ("Econyl") from washed-up plastic is used for production. The hook? So far, unfortunately, these bras are only available in the brand's UK online shop.

Swegmark Secure

Manufacturer

Order here: Swegmark Secure

In the extensive Swegmark range, the Secure Bra stands out with its lace-trimmed design. But that's not the only reason why this bra is worth it. An airy mesh material ensures good climate comfort, adjustable straps for an optimal fit, and a wide underbust band offers a firm fit and strong support even for larger breasts. "Definitely recommended for runners with large breasts," said one tester. We particularly liked the well-thought-out solution for the racer's back function: you put on the bra normally; then you can easily hook two small rings together, which then hold the straps together on the back. This leads to noticeably better stability, but not at the expense of being easy to put on and take off.

Reebok PureMove

Manufacturer

Order here: Reebok PureMove

Reebok uses a new technology called Motion Sense in the PureMove sports bra. This ensures that the sports bra reacts to movements and thus ensures a firm hold during intensive sessions. "The bra feels very soft and feels like a second skin," says one tester. The bra consists of 73 percent polyamide and 27 percent elastane. The fabric is extremely elastic, dries quickly and ensures a high level of dimensional stability: it does not wear out. The 35 millimeter wide band below the chest provides additional stability. The ribbed finish of the inner band is skin-friendly and absorbs moisture. Thanks to the racerback construction with crossed straps in the back, the top offers sufficient support for smaller breasts and a lot of freedom of movement, especially in the shoulder area. The firm fabric with preformed cups is low-chafing. There are air-permeable perforations on both the front and back for good breathability. In addition, a fabric is worked into the seamless straps (not adjustable), which hardens with increasing strain: the more movement, the stronger the hold.

Falke Top Versatility

Manufacturer

Order here: Falke Top Versatility

The Versatility Top complements the Maximum Support Collection at Falke. The front zip with two hook fasteners makes it easier to put on and take off. "A blessing," said one tester (75 C), "now it's easier, much faster and without contortions." "And the hairstyle remains undamaged," adds another tester (75 D). The bra top is double-layered and available in five size combinations. For purists, the Falke range also includes a top without a front zip.

Nike Classic

Manufacturer

Order here: Nike Classic

The Nike Classic is a very classic sports top for runners with a smaller bust size. It comes in a simple design with a racer back, is designed in one color and is simply pulled over the head to put it on. Once you have chosen the right size for the top (important, as there are no adjustment options), it nestles tightly against the upper body and thus stabilizes the bust size. This works well for jogging with relatively small breasts.

A tester (bra size 75A, size S for this model) has sworn by the Classic Sports Bra from Nike for years: "This top has been a safe bet for me for a long time. The material is so firm that it gives me good support, but at the same time it's nice and stretchy.” The fact that the bra doesn't offer any options for adjusting it doesn't have to be a disadvantage at all. On the contrary: because the lack of fasteners also makes them less susceptible to wear and tear. By the way, the Classic is not lined, but it is opaque. That means: The nipples may show when you're cold. However, the bra is not transparent, so the skin underneath does not show through.

Salomon Move'on

Manufacturer

Order here: Salomon Move'on

The Salomon top is designed for medium support, making it more suitable for slow runs or gentler sports. This was also shown in our test. The material is very soft and cuddly, but also rather warm. It does not transport moisture away as well as thinner fabrics. On the other hand, the Salomon Move'on is extremely comfortable on the skin and, since it does not require any fasteners or hooks, is also good for the subsequent workout on the mat. The look was also well received by our testers: "Great design," praised one tester. "The bra can also be worn solo in summer." The top is available in five sizes. However, the sizes are very small. I normally wear an M, but it was way too small for me,” said one tester.

Dynafit React Bra

Manufacturer

Order here: Dynafit React Bra

The Dynafit React Bra impresses above all with its clever back design. Thanks to the recess below the shoulder blades and the mesh fabric used, this Dynafit running bra leaves nothing to be desired in terms of ventilation. The rest of the material is also very breathable and does not absorb odors. The cup pads are thin enough not to feel overloaded while still providing support and a beautiful shape. Because the cup pads are sewn in, they don't slip like many other sports bras do. For runners with a small to medium cup size, the Dynafit React Bra offers reliable support without constricting or weighing you down. All three looks (green, blue and red) are very refreshing, so that the Dynafit React Bra can also be worn without a top, for example for speed runs in temperatures above 30 degrees or for long trail runs through the heat.

New Balance Pace Bra 2.0

Manufacturer

Order here: New Balance Pace Bra

The Pace Bra 2.0 is made of very light material, is wire-free and unpadded and offers little stability. This makes it more suitable for calmer runs as well as for alternative training such as yoga or Pilates. "The bra offers too little support for larger breasts," judged one tester. For runners with a small bust, however, the bra offers a comfortable, light feel. The racerback straps and the mesh inserts ensure a comfortable fit and high breathability.

Triumph Triaction

Manufacturer

Order here: Triumph Triaction

The Triaction Bra provides a secure hold for both small and large breasts thanks to the elastic, yet stable fabric. The non-wired sports bra has padded cups and is very comfortable to wear thanks to the large-area construction. The straps can be adjusted to customize the fit.

Buying advice for sports bras

The cut and fit of sports bras are very individual

Because even a small breast (from cup size A) moves with every step when you run a few centimeters up and down; the larger the breasts, the more up and down movement, plus rotation. An average breast even moves about 8 cm up and down - with every step. A good sports bra, on the other hand, reduces your own movement by up to 75%. In the case of runners with medium to large bust sizes, the swinging movement of the breasts can lead to tension in the shoulder and back area over time. The larger the breasts, the more intensively the runner should deal with the topic and be sure to do extensive research before buying a bra.

It should be noted that sports bras cannot be compared to classic bra models. Some have a similar cut, but the fit is, or should be, tighter. Details such as wires, buttons, ruffles or lace tend to be left out in sports bras. Ornaments cause skin irritation with intensive movement. On the other hand, many sports bras are not suitable for everyday use and should only be used for sports. On the one hand, this is due to the tighter fit, but also to the choice of material. Everyday bras are more comfortable to wear in the long run, are skin-friendly and often more breathable.

The right type of sports bra for every runner

In general, runners can choose between three types of sports bra: the classic sports bra, a top or a bra that is integrated into a shirt. Choose the right variant depending on the type of sport and cup size.

We tested various sports bras for female runners. In this article we present current models.

The classic sports bra

A very stable sports bra has a similar cut to a classic bra: it fixes the breasts with individual cups. However, a sports bra has wider straps than a classic bra, and they are often sewn or crossed on the back to provide even better support. Since great forces are exerted on the breasts when running, such a stable sports bra is the right choice for most runners with a cup size from B.

The sports top

Another cut model is the top. It's similar to a bustier, except that it's also used as outerwear when running. It usually has no cups, but sometimes a bustier or bra is integrated, sometimes with preformed or padded cups. With a small bust size (up to 75 A) and a good, tight fit, the sports top usually offers sufficient support for the breasts and is also more comfortable to wear than a classic sports bra. It becomes problematic if the tops are only offered in combined sizes, such as small and medium (S/M), or for cup sizes A and B. In this case, the top should definitely be tried on beforehand. Sufficient support is decisive, not the support function. For gentler sports such as cycling or yoga, women with a slightly larger breast (cup size B) can also wear a sports top.

The singlet with integrated bustier

This sports bra variant is particularly suitable for price-conscious women with small breasts. The singlet is usually cut very feminine, i.e. body-hugging, and is used as outerwear in summer. The bustier, which is usually not individually adjustable, usually has preformed cups and a fairly wide underbust band.

How to determine the right size for the sports bra

Every runner should avoid the frustration of a sports bra that doesn't fit properly. First of all, it is advisable to measure the chest circumference precisely before buying and to know your own bra or cup size. Research by bra manufacturer Triumph showed that most women have never measured themselves properly.

This is very easy, because all you need is a measuring tape: first measure your underbust size, i.e. the chest circumference, by placing the measuring tape directly under your breast. This is your bra size (e.g. 75 cm). You have to round up or down, the sizes increase in 5 cm increments. Example: If you are between 73 and 77 cm, 75 is the right size for you. To determine your cup size, measure your total chest size. To do this, place the measuring tape horizontally at the point where the breast protrudes furthest, usually directly on the nipple; on the back, the measuring tape runs over the shoulder blades.

Your cup size is the difference between the total bust size and the underbust size. Assuming you measure a total chest measurement of 90 cm and your underbust measurement is 75 cm, the difference is 15 cm. Cup sizes vary in two centimeter increments.

The cup sizing is as follows:

By the way, nowadays sports bras are also available in large sizes: EE and larger. For transitional sizes, you should seek individual advice from a specialist saleswoman and try on different sizes.

Please note: there is no such thing as a custom-made breast, each breast is individual. In addition, the size of the breast changes by up to one cup size in the course of the monthly cycle. Experiment to see if you prefer different sports bras at different times. Some women have two breasts of different sizes, which is not uncommon. It is therefore not only your dimensions that are decisive, but also the individual wearing comfort. Be sure to try the bra on before you buy it. Do the jumping test in the cabin, stretch both arms up high, walk a few meters in front of the cabin - there is no better test.

Practice tests with runners prove time and again that there are no standards as to how a good sports bra should be cut. Every runner has their own favorite. Because not only the breast and cup size as well as the breast circumference are variable, but also numerous other factors, such as the height of the breast base, shoulder width, development of the pectoralis and latissimus muscles or even the neck circumference - all of these factors influence the fit of the bra.

These tips will help you find the right sports bra

The shape of the breast varies from woman to woman. The best way to find the right bra for your needs is to try it on and experience running: Be sure to try your sports bra on before you buy it. The fit of a sports bra should be tight but not constricting.

The sports bra is like the running shoe: You cannot determine the size of the sports bra from your previous bra size. Take this only as a guideline and get advice from a specialist saleswoman or have it remeasured. When you lose weight, your breasts shrink first - a new cup size is required. The same applies to gaining weight. Since the individual hormonal balance also influences the size of the breasts - by up to one cup size - it can definitely be advisable to buy different sports bra sizes.

The chest band should be snug without constricting the chest. It should be wide and comfortable against the skin. In the case of tops, the elastic incorporated into the chest band should lie comfortably. In the case of bras, we recommend multiple closures in the breast band. All fasteners should be lined and padded to avoid chafing.

For sensitive breasts, bras with preformed cups that are made using circular knitting are suitable. Pay attention to wide straps, which are even available with gel inserts. In some models they are even adjustable.

The cups are allowed to be so narrow that the décolleté overflows a little. If the breasts are too swollen or the breasts are pressed against each other, you are wearing the wrong cup size. On the other hand: the cups must not crease – then they are too big. Put more emphasis on the right fit and function than on fashionable design. There are bras in which the chest strap of the heart rate monitor can be integrated. However: Not every pulse belt can be integrated into the bra. It is best to take your heart rate monitor with you when you buy it, only then can you check whether the transmitter also fits into the corresponding bra.

Make sure you use quick-drying functional fibres. A lot of air should reach the skin in the sweat zone between the breasts. A mesh insert makes sense here.

Tops and singlets with an integrated bustier usually no longer offer sufficient support from a bra size of 75 B. If you have a larger chest and want to wear a top in summer for aesthetic reasons, you should consider wearing a sturdy sports bra underneath the top.

The breast band must not slide up when you stretch your arms up. And it must not slip when you bend down and must fit snugly, while the breasts must remain securely in the cup. The bra is designed to hold the breast in place from a low back position, slightly below the shoulder blades. There is little subcutaneous fat here and there are no major changes in size, even with weight fluctuations.

A sports bra that fits comfortably and provides good support can cost a bit. The sports models are usually more expensive than the classic bra model. However, the mix of materials is also much higher quality and more robust, and the processing is much more complex than with a classic bra.

Many bra manufacturers divide their sports models according to different sports intensities: depending on the type of sport and the stress on the breasts. Gentler sports with slow movements, such as B. Yoga, the »Low-Impact-Bra« (i.e. a model for lower intensity of movement, which fits very comfortably, but is not so stable). Female runners – regardless of breast size – should definitely choose the most stable model, called a “high-impact bra” (for strong rotation of the breast).

Extra tip for marathon and half marathon runners

Never wear a new sports bra model for a long run and certainly not in a competition. Test it out on the shorter runs for now. Just like with running shoes, you should own different bra models and alternate them. Some sports bras are more suitable for shorter tempo runs and intervals, some for longer, easy runs. The seamless models are particularly comfortable on long runs, for example, but may not offer enough support at high intensity. Many runners also prefer different sports bras in different cycle phases.

The best way to care for and wash your new sports bra

Sports bras, tops and singlets with an integrated bustier are usually extremely easy to care for. The high-quality fibers can be easily washed in the washing machine (usually at 40° C) and do not lose their shape as easily as classic bra models. It is best to use mild detergent for this, never fabric softener, as it impairs the functionality of the fibers. Sports bras don't need to be tumble dried thanks to quick-drying fibres.

However, sports bras should be washed more often, ideally after each use. Sweat, body fat and acids in connection with deodorant, perfume, oil or creams otherwise penetrate deep into the tissue. As a result, the synthetic microfibers can stick together or be attacked, so that they can no longer reliably transport sweat to the outside. In addition, the odor-intensive sweat bacteria settle. If the worst comes to the worst: if the care label allows, wash the sports bra occasionally at 60° C on a gentle cycle.

Tip for putting on and taking off racer-back sports bras

Putting on and taking off racer-back sports bras can be a bit tricky. They often do not have any adjustment options or fasteners, for example when the shoulder straps cross over in the back. With these bra models, putting on and taking off works better from below: put your legs in and pull the bra up over your hips. Here the bra has to be stretched less than when it is put on over the usually wider shoulder area.

Your training plan12 weeks of running for 30 minutes without a breakmore infoclose12 weeks of running for 30 minutes without a break

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You can find more information about the training plan for beginners with two sample weeks here.

Your training plan5 x 4-week basic training for consistently good running formMore infoClose5 x 4-week basic training for consistently good running form

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With this training plan, we will show you how you can create a solid basis and then, with just a little preparation, be ready for a competition and a new personal best at any time.

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more infoClose12 weeks, cover 10 kilometers

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more infoClose12 weeksRun 30 minutes without a break

Running for half an hour at a time is the first milestone in every runner's life. Don't run straight away. It is better to cautiously move from walking to running. With our plan, even beginner runners without a sporting background can run 30 minutes at a time after three months. Without being overwhelmed!

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Reach your running goal with a training plan created specifically for you and personal support from our RUNNER'S WORLD trainers.

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Are you already a customer? Then log in here.

After successful payment you will receive an email with your download link. If you have any questions, send a message to bestellung@runnersworld.de.

More information on the basic training plan with two example weeks can be found here.

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