Top 5 reasons you need to get a new sports bra

When was the last time you fought to put on your sports bra just to get frustrated by just how bad it felt? If you’ve ever had any issues with a sports bra that didn’t fit right, you’re not alone. In fact according to a well-regarded study, over 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. The issue with sports bras, is that it’s not as cut and dry. In order to find the best sports bra for you it will take some time, many try-ons, and lots of patience! Not sure if you really need to take replace your sports bra? Keep reading for my top 5 reasons to get one sooner rather than later.

Reason #1: You haven’t replaced your sports bra in years.

Okay, busy woman, this is the first order of business. Don’t assume that just because you don’t wear your sports bra that much that it’s okay. According to recent article, sports bras need to be replaced every six-12 months if you exercise up to three times per week! It makes sense though. When you think about the wear and tear a sports bras undergoes through sweaty cardio, intense boot camps, or Zumba classes, it really does take a beating. Purchase three or four at a time and rotate them to increase the life of your bra.

Reason #2: They feel bad.

I know this may sound obvious but if your sports bra cuts into your skin or leaves chaffing marks after you take it off, chances are it’s too tight. Additionally, over time, sports bras shrink especially if you put them in the dryer (a major no-no).

Reason #3: It takes away from your workout.

If you’re constantly adjusting your sports bra or trying to make it look right underneath your shirt, that’s another sign that you need a new one. A sports bra should allow plenty of movement without the distractions of always readjusting your clothes. Who has time for that?!

Reason #4:  They can be customized for your workouts. You don’t need a compression sports bra for yoga nor do you need a padded sports bra for a run. Think about what workouts you do and make sure you have the right bra to support you, literally.

Reason #5: You need the support!

This is the final and obvious reason. As women age it’s important to have a properly fitted daily bra and sports bra. Be sure to get measured regularly and especially after life events like childbirth, and during life stages like the peri-menopause and post-menopausal years. Find a good department store that has professional fitters who can make sure you have the right bra for your needs. During your trip, find some sports bras to try on and get some feedback on fit. If you decide to buy your sports bra online, be sure that the company’s return policy is generous. Lastly, if you want to try to do your own fitting, here are some helpful guidelines.

Shopping for a sports bra is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Take some self-care time to get some new sports bras and enjoy all the benefits that come with getting the (bra) support you need.

Top 3 tips for breast self-care

During these final days in October, I have one question for you? Have you scheduled your mammogram? I know you’re busy and you’ll get around to it but the real question is when will you get around to it? Interestingly, a 2015 report highlighted the fact that more than 70% of women ages 50-74 received a breast cancer screening (1). Great news right? Not so. According to the CDC other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women (2).

This sobering reality is that too many women are still getting diagnosed with breast cancer. There was a recent story about a woman who had the unfortunate misdiagnosis of cancer (3). Reading stories like this can definitely leave you concerned and possibly scared about getting a mammogram. However, when it comes to your health, no one can advocate for yourself better than you! You are the only one who knows your body and it is up to you to get the care you need even it means changing providers, several times.

Below are my top 3 tips for taking better care of your breasts for the month of October and beyond.

Tip #1: Look at your breasts every day. Yes, in the frenzy of life you can oftentimes get dressed without really taking a good look at your breasts. Take some time in the morning (before everyone wakes up) or in the evening to look at your breasts. Look at them without a bra and place your arms straight down by your side, out to the side, and then up to the ceiling. Look at them from the front and both side views. Note any changes.

Tip #2: Get a breast exam done anytime you see your doctor. Of course there’s the month of October, but anytime you have a visit to your family doctor or OB/Gyn, make sure they do a breast exam. It won’t take long and you’ll have a different set of eyes and hands evaluating the same area. Note, most doctors recommend doing a breast exam the week after your period.

Tip #3: Know your risk for breast cancer. You’ve got to know your history especially when it comes to your health. Make sure that you know your family history of breast cancer. Here’s a breast cancer risk assessment tool that I recommend to my clients. Take the Bright Pink assessment here.

Breast health is part of your ongoing self-care. Take the time and tell a friend.

References:

1.  https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/breastcancerawareness/index.htm

2.   Breast Cancer Screening. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://progressreport.cancer.gov/detection/breast_cancer.

3.  https://www.survivornet.com/articles/doctors-mistook-her-cancer-for-pregnancy-pain-never-ignore-your-body/