Why Every Marathon Runner Needs a Quality Sports Bra: The Importance of Support and Comfort

Did you know that wearing a poor-supporting sports bra can set you back an entire mile over the course of a marathon distance? It can reduce your stride-length up to 4cm, so over a long-distance, this can really add up!

Sports bras are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who is serious about marathon training and racing. Not only do they provide support and comfort during intense physical activity, but they can also help prevent injury and improve performance. In this blog post, we will explore the many reasons why sports bras are so important for marathon training and racing, as well as provide some tips on how to choose the right sports bra for your needs.

Why are sports bras important?

First and foremost, sports bras are key for preventing breast pain and injury during marathon training and racing. The repetitive motions of running can cause a lot of stress on the breast tissue, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and even injury. Sports bras are designed to provide the support and compression needed to keep the breasts in place and reduce the amount of movement and stress on the tissue. This is especially important for women with larger busts, who are at a higher risk of breast pain and injury during running.

In addition to preventing injury, sports bras can also help improve performance during marathon training and racing. Studies have shown that wearing a properly-fitting sports bra can help reduce the amount of bounce and movement of the breasts, which can help to improve posture and breathing. This can lead to a more efficient running stride and a reduction in fatigue, making it easier to maintain your pace and achieve your goals.

What features should I look out for?

When it comes to choosing a sports bra for marathon training and racing, there are a few key factors to consider. One of the most important is the level of support provided by the bra. High-impact sports bras are typically recommended for marathon training and racing, as they provide the most support and compression needed to keep the breasts in place. It's also important to choose a sports bra that fits properly, which means trying on a few different styles and getting fitted to find your ultimate support.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a sports bra for marathon training and racing is the type of straps and closures. Sports bras with adjustable straps and hooks are often recommended, as they allow for a more customized fit. Some sports bras also come with built-in underwire, which can provide additional support and lift.

It's also important to consider the material and construction of the sports bra. Sports bras made from moisture-wicking fabric are a great choice, as they will help keep you dry and comfortable during intense physical activity. Sports bras with breathable mesh panels can also help to keep you cool and reduce the risk of overheating.

An often overlooked feature, and one we concentrate on heavily at MAAREE, is the elasticity of the fabric. If you have struggled to find your ultimate support previously, you may want to pay attention to the fabric more. We highly recommend wearing a sports bra that has little to no elastic in the main body of the fabric. Because if the fabric can stretch, then so will you breasts. 

In addition to this, you'll want to ensure the bra is elastic in the rear (on your back area). That way you have the ultimate support in the front, but the elastic will still expand and contract with your breathing. Avoiding any discomfort and any potential for chaffing. Check our our Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra which does exactly this. Or if you prefer something with a little more shape, check out our Battle Bra.

Conclusion

Sports bras are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who is serious about marathon training and racing. Not only for improved support and comfort during intense physical activity, but for also improving on your race time. By choosing a high-impact sports bra that fits properly and has the right features, you can ensure that you are well-equipped to achieve your marathon training and racing goals.