Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, a biomechanics professor, embarked on a quest two decades ago to alleviate her own breast pain, which her doctor attributed to inadequate support. This personal experience ignited her research journey, ultimately leading her to establish the Research Group in Breast Health at the University of Portsmouth in the UK. With a dedicated team of 18 researchers, Wakefield-Scurr’s work focuses on the biomechanics of breast movement during physical activity. Their findings indicate that the most effective high-impact sports bras incorporate features such as underwires, padded cups, adjustable underbands, shoulder straps, and secure closures. These elements work together to minimize breast movement by as much as 74% compared to not wearing a bra, highlighting the importance of proper support.
Historically, the anatomy of the breast, which lacks structural support like cartilage or bone, has made it a challenging area for scientific study. Wakefield-Scurr’s team was the first to uncover the complex three-dimensional movement patterns of breasts during activities such as running, revealing that they can bounce nearly 10,000 times in just one hour of slow jogging. This research underscores the necessity of wearing the right bra, as ill-fitting options can lead to discomfort, breathing difficulties, and even pain due to the lag between torso and breast motion, often referred to as “breast slap.” The findings suggest that many women may avoid exercise due to the discomfort and embarrassment associated with inadequate support.
The study also raises important questions about the mechanics of breast support. Some bras focus on compression, while others aim to support each breast individually. However, the scientific community still lacks clarity on whether it’s more beneficial to minimize breast motion entirely, reduce the speed of movement, or mitigate breast slap. As demand for effective sports bras surges with the increasing participation of women in high-impact sports, Wakefield-Scurr is exploring innovative materials that adapt to the body’s movements, collaborating with fabric manufacturers and apparel companies to enhance bra design. The ongoing research not only aims to improve comfort and support for active women but also addresses a significant barrier to exercise, ensuring that they can engage in physical activities without distraction.
Source: Job titles of the future: Breast biomechanic via MIT Technology Review