A multi-stage intervention assessing, advising and customising sports bras for elite female British athletes

Allbwn ymchwil: Cyfraniad at gyfnodolynErthygladolygiad gan gymheiriaid

Fersiynau electronig

Dangosydd eitem ddigidol (DOI)

  • Joanna Wakefield-Scurr
    University of Portsmouth
  • Amy Sanchez
    University of Portsmouth
  • Melissa Jones
    University of Portsmouth

Appropriate breast support is recommended in sport; however, what constitutes appropriate support is complex, individual and often sports specific, particularly in elite sport given the wear duration. This intervention educated, assessed and advised elite British female athletes on breasts and bras; those with unresolved issues engaged in bespoke bra interventions. Following educational workshops (n = 80), breast/bra surveys (n = 60), individual bra assessments (n = 37); a rower, shooter, and hockey player participated in the bespoke bra intervention. Eighty-three per cent of athletes rated their breast/bra knowledge as ≤average. Fifty-one per cent experienced breast pain, affecting performance for 29%; seven used medication and one surgery to relieve symptoms. In individual bra assessments most wore ill-fitting, unsupportive bras and wanted bra advice. Bespoke bra interventions eliminated breast pain: for the rower, improved breast position and spine rotation; for the shooter, repositioned tissue and improved performance; and for the hockey player, accommodated smart devices. Whilst bespoke bra development is challenging, most elite athlete breast/bra issues are resolved via education, advice and fitting.

Iaith wreiddiolSaesneg
Tudalennau (o-i)703-718
Nifer y tudalennau16
CyfnodolynResearch in Sports Medicine
Cyfrol31
Rhif y cyfnodolyn5
Dyddiad ar-lein cynnar14 Chwef 2022
Dynodwyr Gwrthrych Digidol (DOIs)
StatwsCyhoeddwyd - Hyd 2023
Cyhoeddwyd yn allanolIe
Gweld graff cysylltiadau