September 10, 2020

As I have recently discovered one of the most important pieces of “gear” you can purchase when starting a fitness journey is a quality sports bra that is made for your body and activity level. Once you find a bra that is comfortable and provides adequate support you will be much more likely to crush your fitness goals. Here are my tips for picking the best bra for you.

Measure

Most companies have unique sizes and sizing guidelines. No matter how well you think you know your size, follow the bra fit instructions provided by the company’s website. My favorite sports bra comes in sizes like 2LUXE, so knowing your band and cup size won’t be much help in selecting the perfect fit. Get your handy measuring tape and follow the instructions. It will take a few extra minutes out of your day, but you will be glad you took the time to complete this step.

Know Your Impact Level

Are you a runner? Is walking at a brisk pace more your style? Do you participate in HIIT classes? Obviously running requires a greater level of support than walking. HITT classes move your body in much different ways than a yoga or Pilates class. If you don’t want a bra for every different activity, select the most strenuous activity you do and select a bra support level that matches that activity. I tend to buy high impact support because I know it will cover any activity I choose.

Pay Attention to Small Details

Here is an embarrassing tidbit, I can’t stand to pull sports bras off over my head. It gives me a feeling of claustrophobia and causes a mini panic attack. Knowing this quirk about myself, I only buy sports bras with traditional bra closures or zippers. It is important to know these small things about yourself and make those a part of your purchasing decision.

Have a Back-up

A sports bra is really a one (wear) and done garment. After an intense, sweaty workout, you don’t want to hang your bra up to air dry. Make sure you have a few sports bras so you can launder them after each use.

Express Yourself

While I love a basic black sports bra, gone are the days of the limited white, black and tan selection. Now you can find a great sports bra in just about any color or

pattern that you can imagine. The better you feel in your workout gear, the more motivated you will be. Have fun with it!

My Picks

After much trial and error, I have found two bras that are perfect and excitingly, one is actually made by a Michigan company. My first choice is the Ultimate Sports Bra by SheFit (located in Hudsonville, MI) and you can browse their selection at www.shefit.com. My runner-up is the Nike Rival which you can find online at www.nike.com.

Now, gear up & get out there!