The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Sports Bra Fit: Boost Comfort, Support, and Performance for Walkers and Runners
How to Fit a Sports Bra for a Walker or Runner: An In-Depth Guide
Fitting a sports bra properly is crucial for walkers and runners to ensure comfort, support, and to avoid potential injuries. The following guide provides an in-depth look at the process, including insights from a Confluence Running Bra Fitting training presented by Elisabeth Faughnan, the Confluence Running Store Manager, and representatives from Brooks Running and Brooks Sports.
The Importance of a Proper Fit
Why Women Need a Well-Fitting Sports Bra
A well-fitting sports bra is essential for several reasons:
- Comfort: Reduces discomfort and pain during physical activities.
- Support: Prevents breast tissue damage and sagging.
- Performance: Enhances performance by providing adequate support, reducing movement, and thus minimizing distractions.
- Health: Prevents issues like chafing and bra burns.
Common Misconceptions and Issues
Many women wear the wrong size bra, which can lead to various problems. Brooks Running's research indicates that 80% of women are in the wrong size bra, and women change their bra size approximately five times in their lives due to weight changes, pregnancy, and other factors.
Steps to Fit a Sports Bra
1. Initial Conversation and Comfort
Start by making the customer feel comfortable. This can be done through light conversation and humor, as demonstrated in the training by having participants say "boob" and "nipple" to break the ice. The goal is to create a relaxed environment where the customer feels at ease discussing a sensitive topic.
2. Gathering Information
Ask the customer about their current bra size and what they typically wear. This helps to establish a baseline. Also, inquire about their activities (running, walking, gym workouts) and any discomfort they experience with their current bras. This information is crucial in determining the best type of bra for their needs.
3. Measuring for the Correct Size
Tools Needed
- Measuring tape
- Pen and paper or a phone calculator for notes
Measurement Process
Band Measurement: Measure around the ribcage, just under the bust. Ensure the tape is snug but not tight. Have the customer exhale and then measure to get the most accurate fit. Elisabeth suggests, "Add four inches to this measurement; if it's an odd number, round down to find the band size".
Cup Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of the bust. This should be a looser measurement than the band measurement. Subtract the band measurement from the bust measurement to determine the cup size. Use the following guideline: each inch of difference equates to a cup size (e.g., 1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, etc.).
4. Selecting the Right Bra
Types of Sports Bras
Compression Bras: Suitable for smaller busts, these bras press the breasts against the chest to limit movement.
Encapsulation Bras: These have individual cups and provide support for each breast separately, ideal for larger busts.
Combination Bras: Offer both compression and encapsulation for maximum support.
Features to Consider
- Adjustable Straps: Allow for a customized fit.
- Ventilation Panels: Help keep the wearer cool and dry.
- Pockets: Useful for carrying small items like keys or a phone.
5. Fitting the Bra
Once the customer tries on the bra, check the following:
Band Fit: It should be snug and sit parallel to the ground. A too-loose band can cause chafing.
Cup Fit: The breasts should be fully enclosed in the cups without spilling over or gaping.
Strap Tension: Straps should be adjusted so they provide support without digging into the shoulders.
Encourage the customer to move around, jump, or run in place to test the bra’s support during activity.
The Fabled Fitting and Best Practices
Fitting Best Practices:
- Always ask for permission to touch their body.
- Measure with the everyday bra on to get the most accurate measurement.
- Ask for their preferences on fit and style.
- Become familiar with sister sizing.
- Ensure the customer is comfortable and confident in their new bra.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Dealing with Uncomfortable Conversations
It’s important to be professional and empathetic. Let the customer know that fitting a sports bra is a routine process and that you are there to help them feel more comfortable and supported.
Q&A Example
Q: What should I avoid saying during a bra fitting conversation?
A: Avoid making comments that can be perceived as inappropriate or invasive. For example, don’t say, “I’ve been noticing your boobs and wondering if you wanted me to touch them.” Instead, approach the conversation with professionalism and focus on the customer’s comfort and needs.
Handling Different Body Types
Be aware that different body types may require different solutions. For example, women with larger busts or those who have undergone surgeries like mastectomies may have specific needs. Adjustable features and specialized bras can accommodate these requirements.
Q&A Example
Q: How do I handle a fitting for a customer who has had a mastectomy?
A: Customers who have had a mastectomy may prefer bras with more adjustability. The hook and ladder system in some Brooks bras allows for different tightness levels on each side. If the customer is not using a prosthetic, a bra with compression and adjustability can provide better support.
Continuous Education and Practice
Store associates should regularly familiarize themselves with the products and continue practicing fittings to improve their skills and confidence. Brooks Running offers resources and training to help associates stay knowledgeable.
Customer Service Example
Scenario: A customer, who has recently lost a significant amount of weight and is breastfeeding, comes in looking for a new sports bra.
Approach:
- Greet the customer and make her feel comfortable.
- Discuss her recent changes and how they might affect her bra needs.
- Measure her accurately and suggest bras with adjustable straps to accommodate any further changes in breast size.
Tips for Male Associates
Male associates can also perform bra fittings effectively by following these tips:
Approach with Confidence: Be knowledgeable about the products and the fitting process.
Respect Personal Space: Measure from the side or guide the customer through the process.
Use Personal Stories: Share experiences from female friends or family members to build credibility.
Q&A Example
Q: How do I start the bra fitting conversation as a male associate?
A: Begin by asking the customer if they would like help with a bra fitting and reassure them that you are trained to assist. Offer to guide them through the process or find a female associate if they are more comfortable with that.
Detailed Examination of Brooks Running Sports Bras
Types and Models of Brooks Running Sports Bras
Brooks offers a variety of sports bras designed to meet the needs of different activities and body types. Here are some of the key models:
Racerback 2.0: Known for its hook and ladder adjustability, offering a customizable and secure fit.
Scoopback 2.0: Offers similar adjustability with a design that can completely unhook for ease of putting on and off, ideal for nursing mothers.
Features and Benefits
- Hook & Ladder Adjustability: Provides a secure and customizable fit. This feature is found in the Racerback 2.0 and Scoopback 2.0, allowing the bra to come completely undone for ease of on/off or breastfeeding.
- Ventilation Panels: Located in strategic areas to keep the wearer cool and dry.
- Pockets: Some models include pockets for carrying small items, making them highly functional for active women.
The Hidden Mile
"The Hidden Mile" is a concept introduced by Brooks Running to highlight how wearing the wrong bra size can affect performance. Research shows that women in the wrong size bra can lose up to four centimeters per stride due to insufficient support. Over the course of a marathon, this adds up to the equivalent of running an extra mile, thus emphasizing the importance of a proper fit.
What to Check for During a Fitting
Cups and Bands
- Band Fit: The band should be snug and sit parallel to the ground. It should not ride up or dig into the skin.
- Cup Fit: The breasts should be fully enclosed in the cups without spillage or gaping. The center gore (the part of the bra between the cups) should lie flat against the chest.
Scoop vs. Racerback
- Scoopback: Provides more traditional support and is easier to put on and take off, especially useful for women with limited shoulder mobility or those who are breastfeeding.
- Racerback: Offers additional support by anchoring the straps in a central point on the back, reducing bounce and distributing weight more evenly across the shoulders.
Shoulder Strap Functionality
- Adjustable Straps: Allow for a customized fit and help distribute weight evenly. They should be tight enough to provide support but not so tight that they dig into the shoulders.
- Comfort and Flexibility: The straps should move with the body and not cause any irritation or restriction of movement.
Conclusion: Empowering Women Through Education
By understanding the technical aspects of bra fitting and employing sensitive communication strategies, retail staff can profoundly impact a woman’s running or walking experience. Elisabeth Faughnan sums it up: "We aim not just to sell a bra but to educate and empower women to make informed
