Horse riding and sport bras
In the equestrian sport there are more women than men. Recent research shows that having large breasts can cause (especially young) woman to stop exercising. Yet there are few studies on the impact of breasts (pain) on the performance of the rider. Research has shown that nearly half of the women sometimes experience pain while driving. The larger the breasts, the greater the likelihood of pain.
Riding your horse whilst in pain can have an effect on the riding aids, and thus indirectly on the performance of the equestrian. Research in other sports have already revealed that good support like a (sports) bra can reduce or even prevent pain
During riding you will have more up-and-down movement than in most other sports. It is plausible that it is this that finding a good bra for horseriding is very difficult. Simply because most bras do not provide the needed support. Equestrians often indicate that their bra straps drop or cut into the shoulders while riding.
In this study participated approximately 1,300 people. The questionnaire focused on complaints, comfort and possible improvements of the bras that are now available. Nearly half of the riders stated that they were unable to find a bra that was good for riding. In particular, 'too little support' was mentioned in the questionair.
The study indicated that there are many women who ride their horse whilst in pain. If these pain complaints can be reduced, then horse riding becomes more pleasant and equestrians can pay more attention to the horse and riding their horse. A bad-fitting bra can negatively affect sport performance. Seventy percent of all riders said that there should be other and better bras. Bras suitable for riders.
Expert opinion by Sophie Delemarre
A bad-fitting bra can make a wonderfully relaxed ride a hell. It is good that there has been a bit of research about this matter. I think it's a first step in the right direction. Everyone should be able to ride relaxed and pain free on their horse.
> From: Burgage et al., Comparative Exercise Physiology in press (2018) (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Wageningen Academic Publishers. Click here for the online summary.
