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How to Dance in a Sports Bra

In 1977, Lisa Lindahl drew up a wish list of everything a jogging bra needed. This list addressed all the problems athletic women faced with traditional bra types: straps that fall down, poky hardware, and breast bounce. Dancers bounce, leap, and twirl around the stage, which can be difficult for dancers with larger breasts. Sports bras can help dancers by minimizing bounce and providing comfort. A sports bra is a typical component to many dancers' rehearsal attire. Breasts that are not properly supported with a good sports bra during physical activity can become droopy and lead to tension and strain in the neck and upper back, particularly in large-breasted women.

Things You'll Need

  • One well-fitted sports bra
  • Tailor's measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a good sports bra that fits you well. A properly fitted sports bra will provide the best support while dancing, so know your accurate breast measurements. Choose a bra meant for high-impact activity that will offer the most support on stage. Compression (tank) style bras work well for dancers because they offer the most bounce control. The final factor to consider is fabric. Cotton bras will remain soaked during a sweaty routine, so choose a bra made of a moisture-wicking material like polyester, lycra mesh, or nylon.

    • 2

      Wear the sports bra under a tank top or by itself. Many female dancers will wear a sports bra in place of tank top, but you can certainly wear a tank top over the bra if it makes you more comfortable. Large-breasted women may want to wear two sports bras to provide maximum support against bounce.

    • 3

      Dance as you would in normal clothing or dance costume. Sports bras will not inhibit your dancing in any way. In fact, many dancers find them to be more liberating than other types of workout clothes.

    • 4

      Replace your sports bra at least every 12 months for best results. Bras lose their elasticity over time, which also decreases the support it provides. Replace your bra if the fabric starts to pull apart, the bra fits looser, or if there is increased breast motion during exercise.

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