Running when you're bigger than normal - for women only

The impact of running is something that the connective tissue everywhere in your body needs to get used to over time, and the support structures for your breasts are experiencing a strain that they haven't before. So I would say if you've invested in a good bra and you're still having pain, cut back on the running a just bit and progress a little more slowly.

Give it time and don't give up. If your progression is slow and steady you should notice that longer/faster runs become less painful.

Also, good advice once given to me when I started running was to make sure you can walk the distance without pain before training to run for it.

I hope someone with more experience in this particular area can share their wisdom with you.

I haven't run since I was in the military and had no choice. However, I love to walk, and do that most days.

lwarrnz wrote: »

I was wondering if anyone had suggestions. I'm quite big in the bust. I'm trying to lose some weight so I can have reduction surgery. Meantime, I'm trying to get my fitness up as well and want to try running, but it can be a little painful, not to mention embarrassing. Sports bras don't offer much support and don't stop the, er, bouncing. What can I do to make it more comfortable?

I don't know how large breasted you are, but when I was a 38H I used Enell sports bras. It provided adequate support. Enell sizes may go into your size range. They are one of the larger options. I use Shock Absorber now at a 34DD.

I have the same problem, but I wear a maximum support sports bra size a smaller than is totally comfortable.

If you're a beginner looking for great running advice and coaching, check out runners world starting line forum. Several more experienced runners and coaches are available to help with just about any question you could have. I've met many good running friends there!

I am a 12 or 14G/H depending on brand - I have a Elomi Energise sports bra, which has a J hook - so you can turn it into a racer back (more support) . I went to a specialty shop to get fitted.

Go and get a sports bra fitting at a retailer that specializes in women's athletic clothing, such as Title Nine, or an independent lingerie store. Be prepared to hear that your current band size is too large; sports bras need to be super snug.

The Enell sports bra is well-known as being great for the well-endowed. Moving Comfort makes some excellent sports bras in larger sizes; their Fiona is a longstanding favorite, but I think that they have added to their line. New Balance does a good one as well. Someone already mentioned Shock Absorber, which I absolutely love, but must warn you is a bit pricey. But, really, go and get a fitting.

I have a Wacoal sports bra. It's like a regular bra, but more compact. It's great for running. I love it. Plus it comes in actual sizes, it goes to 42DDD.

This is the one I use:

http://www.herroom.com/wacoal-855170-sports-underwire-bra.shtml

Been there.

I tried on a thousand sports bras. I jumped in the dressing room and finally found one that worked. It took a lot of trial and error. My first bra was a rather ugly one from Lane Bryant. My second one (and my favorite) was an expensive molded rubber thing from a sporting goods store; the only one that hasn't given me a uniboob. Now I'm buying cheaper ones because I'm smaller and was going through an economy phase. As I stare down a new running challenge, I'm considering one that is more molded again b/c I felt so much better looking in it...

Then, I would recommend the slow start others have recommended. Start with a few yards of running mixed with fast walking until your body tissue and joints acclimate. Build your running distance slowly and your body will adjust without injury; then you will run a whole mile, and then MILES!!!

Then you will start losing weight and you'll have to buy another one, but everything will get easier -- NOT day to day, but month to month you will find improvement!

Someone at my gym suggested 2 bras and I could have kissed them. Best advice ever.