Top 15 Interesting Facts About Sports Bras

Sports bras have come a long way since their creation, evolving from a basic workout essential to an empowering and stylish piece of activewear. Whether you're into running, yoga, or intense training, sports bras are now recognised as a key component for both comfort and performance. But how much do you really know about them? Here are 15 interesting facts about sports bras that might surprise you.

1. The First Sports Bra Was Made from Two Jockstraps

Did you know the first sports bra was actually created by stitching together two jockstraps? Back in 1977, Lisa Lindahl, Polly Smith and Hinda Miller were searching for a way to make exercise more comfortable for women, and thus, the "Jogbra" was born.

2. Sports Bras Can Reduce Breast Movement by Up to 74%

Wearing the right sports bra can minimise breast movement during physical activity by up to 74%. This is especially important during high-impact workouts like running or jumping, where minimising bounce can prevent discomfort and long-term tissue damage.

3. Sports Bras Were Banned in the Olympics

In 1999, British runner Jo Pavey was asked to turn her sports bra inside out by Olympic officials because it displayed a manufacturer’s logo. This highlighted the strict advertising rules at the time, though sports bras have since become a standard for female athletes at the Olympics.

4. Wearing a Sports Bra Can Improve Performance

A well-fitting sports bra can significantly enhance performance. By reducing discomfort and providing adequate support, sports bras allow you to focus on your workout rather than worrying about your chest.

5. There Are Different Levels of Support for Different Activities

Not all sports bras are the same. Low, medium and high-impact bras are designed for specific activities. Low-impact bras are ideal for yoga or walking, medium-impact bras work for cycling or dancing and high-impact bras are perfect for running and intense workouts.

6. The Importance of Moisture-Wicking Fabric

Most sports bras are made with moisture-wicking fabrics to keep sweat away from the skin. This helps regulate body temperature and prevents chafing during workouts, keeping you cool and comfortable.

 

7. More Than 50% of Women Experience Discomfort Without a Sports Bra

Studies have shown that more than half of women experience breast discomfort when exercising without proper support. A sports bra is essential to prevent pain, especially during high-impact activities.

8. Sports Bras Help Prevent Long-Term Damage

A good sports bra does more than provide comfort—it also helps prevent long-term damage to the breast’s Cooper’s ligaments. Without proper support, these ligaments can stretch, leading to sagging over time.

9. Custom-Fit Sports Bras Are on the Rise

With the demand for personalised comfort, custom-fit sports bras are becoming more popular. Adjustable straps, band sizes and cup sizes allow for a more tailored fit, catering to a wide range of body shapes and sizes.

10. Sports Bras Have a Short Lifespan

Sports bras don’t last forever! Most should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you wear and wash them. Over time, the elasticity breaks down, reducing their support. Especially if you are washing them with Stay soft! Stay soft and active wear are not friends. 

11. Sports Bras Help Boost Confidence

When you feel supported and comfortable in your sports bra, it boosts your confidence during workouts. Knowing that your gear won’t let you down lets you focus on your goals and push yourself further.

12. Sports Bras Are Now a Fashion Statement

What started as functional workout wear has become a fashion trend. Many women now wear sports bras as standalone tops, pairing them with leggings or shorts for a stylish, gym-to-street look.

13. The World Record for Removing Sports Bras

In 2007, the world record for removing the most sports bras in one minute was set at 20 bras! This fun fact shows the global popularity and cultural impact sports bras have had over the years.

14. Breast Size Affects Sports Bra Needs

Women with larger breasts often require more support, such as wide straps and underwires, for high-impact activities. Meanwhile, women with smaller chests may opt for lighter, less structured bras for low-impact activities.

15. Some Sports Bras Are Smart

Technology has made its way into sports bras! Smart sports bras are now available with built-in sensors that can track your heart rate, breathing patterns and calorie burn, adding a high-tech twist to your workout wardrobe.

 

Sports bras have become a crucial part of women’s fitness, offering support, comfort and even style. Whether you're an athlete or someone who enjoys casual workouts, investing in the right sports bra can make a huge difference in your exercise experience. From reducing breast movement to boosting confidence, the sports bra is a small but mighty piece of gear that plays a big role in women’s fitness and beyond.

 

Sources:

Lindahl, Lisa, Polly Smith, and Hinda Miller. The Invention of the Jogbra: 1977. Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Available at: https://americanhistory.si.edu/.

Mortensen, N. Z., & Walkom, S. (2018). The effects of sports bra usage on the physical and psychological performance of women during exercise. Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness. Available at: ScienceDirect.

Scurr, J., White, J., & Hedger, W. (2009). The influence of breast support on the kinematics of the breast during the running gait cycle. Journal of Sports Sciences, 27(3), 303-309. Available at: PubMed.

 Wearable Technologies. Wearable Technology in Fitness and Health. Available at: Wearable Technologies.

White, J., & Scurr, J. (2012). Evaluation of professional bra fitting criteria for bra selection and fitting in the UK. Ergonomics, 55(6), 704-711. Available at: Taylor & Francis Online.