How to select the best sports bra for your workout

FOR many South African women, staying active isn’t just a hobby — it’s part of our everyday lifestyle.

- SARENE KLOREN

Whether it’s early-morning runs, weekend hikes or powering through a HIIT class in summer heat, having the right sports bra can make or break your workout.

Yet, it’s one of the most overlooked pieces of fitness gear. A poorly fitted sports bra doesn’t just feel uncomfortable; it can cause long-term breast tissue damage, skin irritation, back strain and a drop in overall performance.

Understanding the different types of sports bras - and which one suits your body and activity level - is more important than ever.

Why fit and support matter

Breasts contain no muscle, which means they rely entirely on skin and ligaments for support. Movement during exercise stretches these ligaments, and once stretched, they don’t bounce back. This leads to sagging, discomfort and sometimes chronic pain.

Unsupported breasts can move up to 15cm during high-impact exercise like running and jumping. A well-fitting sports bra reduces that movement by more than half, protecting the chest, back and shoulders.