Olympic champion takes part in Portsmouth sports bra research

A reigning Olympic champion has joined a study investigating how sports bras can work for different body types during physical activity.

The University of Portsmouth research project is designed to assess how the underwear supports women of different bra sizes through practical testing.

British rower Lola Anderson said: “A correctly fitted sports bra is the most important piece of kit for any female athlete.”

Researchers have urged more women to come forward and take part in the Hampshire-based study, which aims to enhance sports bra design with a more accurate understanding of women’s needs.

Ms Anderson, who won gold in the women’s quadruple sculls at the Paris Olympics last year, said: “I didn’t know how important they were until I was about 23 or 24, and I’ve felt a huge difference in having a correctly fitted, supportive bra since then.

“To see that backed up with the data during my visit to Portsmouth, was really reaffirming.

“A correctly fitted sports bra is the most important piece of kit for any female athlete and finding a bra that fits comfortably as well as helps my performance is invaluable.”

In addition to the testing, participants in the study will take part in a bra fitting, complete a series of questionnaires and have their breasts scanned to gather additional data.

All women aged between 18 and 39 who have not had breast surgery, are not pregnant and have not breastfed in the past 12 months are eligible to take part.

Dr Nichola Renwick, from the University of Portsmouth, said: “We frequently hear from women with larger breasts who feel there aren’t supportive options available to them.

“Our aim is to identify what good breast support really means for larger sizes and to help create better options for everyone.”