There are two sides to every story: implications of asymmetry on breast support requirements for sports bra manufacturers

Abstract

There are two sides to every story: implications of asymmetry on breast support requirements for sports bra manufacturersThis study aimed to investigate: 1) the prevalence and magnitude of breast movement asymmetry, 2) the interaction between static and dynamic breast asymmetry and 3) the influence of sports bras on breast asymmetry during running.Position data were collected from 167 females whilst treadmill running and then a sub-group of twelve participants in different bra conditions. Breast movement asymmetry existed in 89% of participants, with resultant static breast position asymmetry larger in participants displaying dynamic asymmetry. Asymmetry was most commonly caused (60 to 75%) by greater movement of the left breast. No significant relationships were found between asymmetry and bra size or breast pain. Sports bras reduced asymmetry prevalence from 75% to 33% of participants in the antero-posterior direction but only from 75% to 67% of participants in the infero-superior direction. The magnitude of range-of-motion asymmetry reduced from 67 mm with no bra to between 6 and 64 mm in-bra in the infero-superior direction, with the best performing bra incorporating encapsulating cups and adjustable straps and underband. It is recommended that sports bras allow underband and strap adjustment to facilitate individual breast support and that asymmetry is considered when designing and fitting bras, which could utilise resultant asymmetry measured statically.

Validity and Reliability of Three Commercially Available Smart Sports Bras during Treadmill Walking and Running

“…While not the primary focus of this investigation, perception of each smart bra was collected from participants. A number of factors have been identified in the literature that affect the perception of sports bra comfort during exercise including breast asymmetry 38 , quality of support 39 , and design aspects accounting for cushioning 40 , strap Table 3. Percent of erroneous heart rate values produced during each condition.…”

“…Previous studies have tested female participants at specific points in the menstrual cycle when the breast is in its lowest and most stable size 39 , and this was not taken into account in the current investigation. Additionally, a trained bra fitter was not employed 38 . While it is unlikely these considerations would have had an impact on the heart rate validity and reliability measures reported, the perceptual responses could have been impacted.…”

Running Posture Optimization in the Process of Track and Field Sports Based on Biomechanical Principle

“…College students can improve their running posture by observing and imitating the running posture of excellent athletes. In addition, college students can gradually improve their running posture through video playback and the guidance of coaches [14].…”