Choosing the right sports bra size is essential for comfort, performance, and breast health during physical activities. A well-fitted sports bra reduces bounce, prevents discomfort, and offers the support you need to stay focused on your workout. Here’s your ultimate guide to selecting the perfect sports bra size, with tips from the experts at Liza Clifford Professional Bra Fitting Studio.

Why the Right Fit Matters

Wearing the wrong sports bra size can lead to poor support, discomfort, and even long-term issues like sagging or breast pain. The right sports bra minimizes movement, reduces strain, and enhances your workout performance. At Liza Clifford, we emphasize the importance of getting a professional fitting to ensure your sports bra fits perfectly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Sports Bra Size

1. Know Your Bra Size

Start by knowing your current bra size. We recommend making an appointment with a bra fit specialist, if you're not able to get one of our 5 studios in South Africa we recommend booking a virtual fit.

If you would like to do a self assessment before booking you can use our Bra Size Calculator, however this is only a starting point.

Use a soft measuring tape to measure:

• Band Size: Measure around your ribcage, directly under your bust.

• Bust Size: Measure around the fullest part of your bust.

Subtract your band size from your bust size to determine your cup size. Use our Liza Clifford Bra Size Calculator to double-check your measurements for accuracy.

2. Understand Sports Bra Support Levels

Sports bras come in three support levels. Choose the level based on your activity:

• Low Impact: For yoga, walking, or Pilates. Suitable for smaller busts or gentle activities.

• Medium Impact: For cycling, hiking, or weight training.

• High Impact: For running, aerobics, or intense sports. Essential for larger busts or high-intensity activities.

3. Check the Band

The band provides the majority of the support in a sports bra. Ensure it fits snugly. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the band. There should be no gap under your bust where big busted women usually find their breasts fall out of.

4. Evaluate the Cups

Your breasts should fill the cups without spilling over or leaving gaps. Contrary to popular believe you should not need more than one sports bra to support a big bust. Ensure each breast is individually supported in its own cup. Compressing a big bust often leads to creation of one larger mass making it very difficult to support. The cup should be a full cup as anything smaller will not stop any upward movement. Try to avoid wearing a sports bra as a fashion piece it is a working garment that is designed to stop bounce.

5. Test the Straps

Adjustable straps allow for a personalized fit. Ensure the straps are secure but not digging into your shoulders. Racerback designs often offer extra stability. If your support is coming from straps reassess the band.

6. Move and Test

Before committing to a sports bra, move around to test its fit:

• Jump, jog, or stretch to ensure the bra minimizes movement.

• Check that it stays in place without riding up as this will cause excess chafing.

Common Sports Bra Mistakes to Avoid

1. Choosing the Wrong Size: Always update your size if your body changes.

2. Not Replacing Your Bra: Sports bras lose elasticity over time. Replace them every 6-12 months or after 30-40 washes. Like sports shoes, your sports bra works for a limited time period

3. Prioritizing Style Over Function: While appearance matters, prioritise support and comfort over fashion.

Professional Fitting Services at Liza Clifford

Still unsure about your sports bra size? Visit Liza Clifford Professional Bra Fitting Studio for a personalized fitting. Our experts will help you find the perfect sports bra tailored to your unique needs and activity level.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right sports bra size is crucial for both comfort and performance. By knowing your size, understanding support levels, and testing for fit, you can find a bra that works as hard as you do.

Ready to find your perfect fit? Book a professional fitting or explore our range of high-quality sports bras today!