This dissertation was completed as part of my MSc in Sport Management, Politics and International Development at Loughborough University in 2022, for which I was awarded a Distinction.

Abstract

As women’s participation in endurance running grows in India, the specific sporting needs of female runners remain under-researched. My MSc dissertation investigated sports bra use, perceived importance, satisfaction and fit-related issues among female recreational long-distance runners in Delhi, addressing a gap in published research on sports bra use among women runners in India.

The study used a mixed-mode survey to collect responses from 223 adult women, of which 211 valid responses were analysed. It examined patterns of sports bra use across running experience levels and self-reported breast sizes, alongside satisfaction with sports bra design, common fit issues, replacement habits, professional fitting and choice of bra type.

The findings showed that sports bra use was widespread, with 98.6% of participants reporting that they wore one for running. However, use and perceived importance were higher among experienced runners and participants with larger breasts. Despite widespread use, participants reported multiple fit-related issues. The most common included shoulder straps digging into the skin, underwires digging into the skin, and rubbing or chafing. These issues were reported more frequently by participants with larger breasts. More than half of participants had never received a professional sports bra fitting.

The research highlighted a distinction between wearing a sports bra and having one that fits appropriately. It identified the need for greater awareness of breast support, improved access to appropriate fitting services and further research into the needs of women runners in India.

Participant Education & Awareness

Alongside this research, I developed an educational video on sports bra use for women runners. The video covers three key areas: why wearing a sports bra matters, a guide to sports bra fitting, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Participants who completed the online questionnaire were directed to the video on the survey confirmation page, providing them with access to practical information about sports bra use and fit.

Future Research & Collaboration

This dissertation provides a starting point for further research into sports bra use, fit, comfort and breast support among women participating in recreational distance running in India. While the study focused on women runners in Delhi, future research could include participants from other regions and rural communities, examining how age, running experience, breast size, socioeconomic circumstances and sociocultural factors influence sports bra use and satisfaction.

Further studies could explore access to professional bra fitting, experiences of discomfort during running, and how menstrual cycles, pregnancy, breastfeeding and post-surgical experiences shape women’s sporting needs. Participants also suggested further investigation into breast health, wearing sports bras during menstruation and whether sports bras may help alleviate discomfort during the menstrual cycle. These topics warrant careful investigation, with breast health research conducted in collaboration with qualified healthcare professionals.

I welcome opportunities to collaborate on future research with academics, sports scientists, healthcare professionals, sports bra designers and manufacturers, running communities and organisations working to improve women’s participation in sport. My interest is in advancing evidence-informed approaches to sports bra design, fitting and access.

Interested in Collaborating?

Are you a researcher, sports scientist, healthcare professional, sports bra designer or part of a running community interested in women’s sport and breast support?

I welcome opportunities for collaborative research, knowledge exchange and future studies building on this dissertation.

Get in touch to discuss research ideas, partnerships or opportunities to take this work further.