Hidden support for the lionesses: a breast/bra intervention
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Electronic versions
Documents
DOI
Despite health and performance benefits of appropriate breast support in sport, elite women athletes' knowledge of breasts/bras is poor leading to poor bra choices, breast pain and performance decrements. This multiphase intervention assessed breast/bra issues and preferences, individually prescribed sports bras and evaluated outcomes for the England Senior Women footballers. Breast/bra workshops were delivered to England players; all 36 completed pre-intervention surveys and breast/bra assessments, before being prescribed bras six weeks before European and World Championships (2022, 2023). 24 players completed post-intervention surveys. Pre-intervention outcomes identified poor knowledge, poor bra fit, many bra issues, and cultural sensitivities. Breast pain was prevalent (61%), with 25% reporting clinically significant breast pain. Post-intervention, players reported significant improvements with prescribed sports bras. 91% reported improvements in knowledge and benefiting from the intervention. This successful intervention provided an evidence-base for ongoing breast health initiatives with England Teams, plus roll-out to all levels of women's football.
Original language | English |
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Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Research in Sports Medicine |
Early online date | 21 May 2024 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 21 May 2024 |
Externally published | Yes |
Research outputs (1)
- Published
Breast and bra education can improve elite female athlete experience
Research output: Contribution to conference › Abstract