As a woman, going to the gym and enduring a workout can be made or broken if you have the wrong bra on for the support you need. With different workouts offering different intensities, having the right type of bra for your workout is crucial; not only will it improve your performance, but also reduce the risk of you being in pain and even causing breast damage, thus making the session more enjoyable.
There’s also a reduction in the potential for any wardrobe malfunctions that’ll cause you a bit of embarrassment thus forcing you never to set foot in the gym again. Many of us have been there.
Of course, all women’s bodies are different with different needs – for example, bigger busts will need more support and coverage than those with smaller boobs. The same goes for the type of workout you are undertaking.
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For things like yoga and pilates, a low impact bra that can keep the girls tucked in neatly will suffice. For something like spin, you’ll need a medium strength crop top with a bit more hold and support. And for running – well, that’s certainly a job for a more high strength bra that delivers almost no movement when worn.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, our resident fashion writers and fitness fiends have shared their top picks. Having tried and tested these bras out themselves, it’ll hopefully help you find your ideal bra. Plus, we’ve added in a few pieces on our wishlist that come highly recommended.
Montirex Sports Bras
Jada Jones has spent a lot of time over the last year in high intensity spin classes and quickly realised support is massively important for these classes – with her bust being an E it can be difficult to find a sports bra that is both cute and supportive. Montirex had the solution – although this specific bra is no longer sold on the site there are six different options that we think will be just as supportive. The bras start at £19.99.
Jada said: “I have a matching sports bra and legging set which I think always gives you a little extra motivation to go to the gym because you feel quite put together. I’ve went through many options, including many Victoria’s Secret Pink sports bras, but the one I always come back to is from Montirex. I feel like it manages to be both pretty and functional.
“I’m never concerned that I won’t be held perfectly in place, even in the more active parts of my spin, yoga and pilates classes where we’re doing a lot of movement. I also get a lot of compliments on this set when I’m in the gym. I will say that sweat stains do show up on it but I think that’s to be expected when you’re in the gym.”
USA Pro’s Core Racer Back Sports Bra
Having tried and tested many sports bras in her time, shopping writer Eve Rowlands, who’s a keen pilates buff and HIIT lover, shares how you don’t always have to buy the most expensive bras to get good quality: “Don’t let the price of USA Pro’s sports bras put you off. As I’m the proud owner of three different gym tops from this brand, I can say with confidence that they are great at giving the right support depending on the bra you get.
For example, the Core Racer Back Sport’s Bra, which now costs £16 down from £30, is great for bouncy spin classes. With or without the padding, this sports bra has a racer back that provides good compression and fit – and no chance of spillage. The band underneath your chest is elasticated too, which makes for a comfortable workout that won’t make you feel too restricted.
“What’s great too is that the bra is made with Pro Dry technology which has a sweat-wicking feature that keeps you dry and comfortable even during intense or long training sessions. Banishing sweat patches for the most part, it’ll keep you looking and feeling good throughout your workout.
“While it is a great option for me – as a 32C cup – as it’s a medium intensity bra, someone with a bigger bust may need something with a little extra support.”
The bra comes in a variety of colours too from grey to green to ‘swirl ombre’, it’s a practical sports bra that can also be a bit of a fashion statement in the gym. Get it from Sport’s Direct here.
Fabletics’ Oasis Twist Medium Impact Sports Bra
After a sports bra that offers a stylish touch and is flattering all whilst keeping your chest protected during a workout? Look no further than celeb-adored Fabletics, Eve Rowlands adds. “I’ve been a massive fan of Fabletics’ designs and active wear since I started my fitness journey at around 18 and this year I finally caved and treated myself to a Merlot coloured set and instantly fell in love with the Oasis Twist Medium Impact Sports Bra.
“Costing £59 for non-members (but £11.79 for those who subscribe to the brand, having 80% off currently), the bra offers medium support and has been proven by me to withstand spin, weight lifting and pilates. The material is unbelievably soft which makes wearing the bra a dream, plus it’s moisture-wicking so doesn’t leave you feeling too moist post-workout.
“With a twist front, the design of the bra is stunning and makes you feel pretty lovely as you enter the gym. I like that it’s designed to solve side spillage while gently lifting, shaping, and holding you in. My only request would be for slightly more coverage in the chest area as sometimes when I use it for HIIT or running, I feel a little conscious – with ‘gently lifting’, you can probably sense as to why. Although it does the job when I hoick it up – I just wish the straps were adjustable to tighten or loosen as needed.
“That being said, the comfort level, support for what I use it for and design of the bra makes it dreamy. For something more high impact, I’ve been eyeing up the Faye High Impact Sports Bra from Fabletics as well as the high support Energy Infinite Double Strap Lightly Padded Convertible Sports Bra from Pour Moi and Sweaty Betty’s Zero Gravity Running Bra, now £37.50, which is said to be ideal for all activities…”
Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra
With a goal to run 10K before the end of 2024, shopping writer Lucy Addicott didn’t realise quite how bad her old sports bras were until she got her hands on the Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra. She said: “I was finding running really uncomfortable and needed a sports bra with more support. After much research, I opted for this sports bra from Gymshark (£28), and it has truly transformed my training experience.
“The sports bra is described as ‘medium support’ but I find it is perfect for activities such as running and cycling. It has an adjustable cross-over back strap and the ruching on the front is really flattering. Available in sizes XXS to XXL, it’s ideal for a wide range of chest sizes, but I found sizing down the best method if you want to feel extra secure.”
There are seven colours to choose from, including navy, black and plum, and you can remove the padding if you desire. “With other sports bras, the padding has moved around after washing which can be really annoying – but not with the Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra,” Lucy added. “However, I do wish it came in some brighter or pastel shades, especially for the summer months.”
Lululemon has some lovely options such as the £38 Energy Bra Medium Support stocked in cobalt blue and pink.
Lovall’s 24/7 Revitalise Sports Bra
Lauren was desperate for a new sports bra that she could use for support, but also feel stylish and chic – thank goodness for Lovall’s 24/7 Revitalise Sports Bra, she says. “As someone who’s part of the small boobs club, you’d think I could get away with minimal support during a workout — but sadly no. Whether breaking a sweat during yoga or power-walking during my lunch break, I want a sports bra that provides support and makes me feel good wearing it.
“Enter Lovall’s Revitalise Sports Bra (£32), which has quickly become a standout in my activewear drawer.The fit is tight enough to offer reliable support without feeling like I’m being suffocated, while the soft, high-quality fabric feels incredible against the skin.
“And let’s not forget its super flattering shape—it hugs in all the right places without flattening everything out. Plus, it’s not see-through, so I don’t have to worry about any embarrassing nip slips. My one gripe?
“Taking this bra off after a sweaty session is a real effort. Pulling it over my head is like a mini workout in itself! That said, it’s a minor niggle compared to everything else it gets right. It’s worth noting that the bra pairs beautifully with the brand’s matching high-waisted leggings, creating a chic, coordinated look that’s ideal for both working out and lounging.”
