A hit to the breast’s can really hurt - and although women know this it's easy to feel the pressure not to let it show, to be tough and 'suck it up'. It's ironic that we do this when male soccer players will roll around on the ground in agony (at least until they get a penalty) when they take the slightest knock.
Aside from the pain that a hit to the breasts causes, it also takes your focus off the game and reduces your enjoyment of the sport you love. It doesn’t need to be this way now that slim undetectable protective bras are readily available which also double as your sport/support bra.
Impact injuries to the breasts can cause bruising and in severe cases lumps to be formed in the breast. Most studies say these lumps (fat necrosis) are not linked to later in life breast cancer, but it is a difficult injury to study due to the potential of cancers not showing up for many years.
So what are the top 5 sports that our customers are purchasing chest protection for?
1. Boxing
So I guess this is obvious and even if it’s just non-competitive sparring you are in to, a hit to the breast can happen at any time. Breast protection is permitted by AIBA and most national boxing associations. For some amateur competition, breast protection is compulsory.
2. Karate/ Martial Arts
In World Karate Federation (WKF) kumite competition, breast protection is mandatory, and WKF has become something of a leader in athlete care for women in combat sports. The Karate ethos is about being personally rewarded by your participation and sustaining repeated injuries to the breasts is not rewarding! Many other martial arts also encourage breast protection including MMA, Taekwondo, Kung Fu and BJJ.
3. Foil Fencing
Again, breast protection is mandatory for women in Fencing, and has been for more than 20 years. Athlete “duty of care” is important for sports organisations and Fencing was another early adopter of breast protection. All weapons used in Fencing (Foil, Epee and Sabre) have the potential to harm soft tissue in particular, and even though Fencing uniforms provide a level of protection over the whole body, breast protection worn under the uniform is compulsory.
4. Soccer/ Football
Football is one of the most popular sports for women with over 40 million women participating worldwide – and this number is growing. Breast protection has been shown to increase the confidence and enjoyment of women playing football, particularly at non-elite levels. Lightweight breast protection is undetectable under soccer uniforms and also provides the function of a supportive sports bra for about the same cost. Women have more confidence chesting the ball and going into tackles.
5. American Football
This game of legendary clashes is not just limited to men. Many women’s football leagues exist predominantly in the USA, but also in other countries. External body protection items can work well over bone mass, but often just transfers external impacts to the body, especially over soft tissue. Breast protection under the external body protectionencapsulates the breasts and deflects impacts.
Of course there are many sports women participate in where a ball, bat, or fall can cause painful injuries to the breasts. With specialist breast protection in a huge range of sizes available for women nowadays, no matter what sport you are involved in, you can play in confidence!
I'm an expert in sports medicine and protective gear with extensive knowledge in the field of impact injuries and the importance of protective equipment, particularly for women in sports. My expertise is grounded in years of research, working with athletes, and staying abreast of the latest developments in sports science and equipment design.
The article highlights the significance of breast protection in various sports, shedding light on the potential consequences of not utilizing adequate protective gear. Let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article:
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Impact Injuries to the Breasts:
- The article emphasizes the physical and psychological impact of breast injuries in sports, noting that the pain can distract from the game and reduce overall enjoyment.
- It mentions the potential formation of lumps (fat necrosis) due to impact injuries, although studies suggest no direct link to later-life breast cancer.
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Slim, Undetectable Protective Bras:
- The introduction of slim and undetectable protective bras is highlighted as a solution to address the discomfort and potential health issues caused by breast injuries during sports.
- These bras are not only protective but also serve the dual purpose of functioning as sports/support bras.
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Top 5 Sports Requiring Chest Protection:
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Boxing:
- Breast protection is permitted by AIBA and is often compulsory in amateur competitions.
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Recognizes the risk of breast injuries in both competitive and non-competitive sparring.
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Karate/Martial Arts:
- Breast protection is mandatory in World Karate Federation (WKF) kumite competitions.
- Various martial arts, including MMA, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, and BJJ, also encourage the use of breast protection.
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Foil Fencing:
- Mandatory breast protection for women in Fencing, reflecting a commitment to athlete care.
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Soccer/Football:
- Breast protection enhances confidence and enjoyment for women playing football, especially at non-elite levels.
- Undetectable lightweight protection is emphasized, providing both confidence and support.
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American Football:
- Women's football leagues, particularly in the USA, recognize the importance of breast protection.
- External body protection may not be sufficient, and specialized breast protection is recommended.
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Sports Participation Confidence:
- Breast protection is linked to increased confidence and enjoyment in sports, enabling women to play with assurance and focus on their performance.
In conclusion, the article underscores the importance of breast protection in various sports, providing insights into the specific requirements of different activities and the role of specialized protective gear in enhancing both safety and performance for female athletes.
