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Abstract

International Journal of Exercise Science 12(1): 402-411, 2019. Given the abundance of brassieres, manufacturers, and investigations of bras, it remains unclear whether the continued development of bras will provide many additional improvements in support. This study measured performance of sport bras including 4 popular bras and a new style bra at reducing breast motion during five common exercises. Bras demonstrated varying effectiveness and consistency across exercises at reducing undesirable breast motion, (hereafter referred to as kinematics). The new style bra significantly reduced vertical breast displacement and acceleration more consistently than other bras. When significant differences between bras were detected, the newer bra provided 31% greater reduction in vertical displacements and accelerations on average than other bras. Lateral reductions were smaller, less significant and no differences between bras were detected. When participants evaluated bras in terms of performance and ease of use, the newer bra was rated better than other bras by nearly a two to one ratio. There were no differences in how the bras felt, or in terms of pain and discomfort. Correlations between participant comfort and reductions in kinematics were weak and inconsistent. Results suggest continued bra development is possible in order to reduce undesirable motion especially in terms of reducing lateral motion. Additional investigation is required to examine the mechanistic reasons why bras improve comfort and potentially performance.

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