Grant: Alliance Grants

Female participation in sport has increased significantly, yet research on women's specific needs, including athletic apparel, has not kept pace. Most sports bras are designed based on research that has focused on steady-state running, neglecting the varied, dynamic movements involved in sports like volleyball and soccer. This project aims to fill that gap by studying breast biomechanics during dynamic, multiplanar activities to improve sports bra design. The goal of this research is twofold: to better understand how breasts move during complex sports activities by developing new metrics that accurately capture these movements, and to use this knowledge to design sports bras that provide optimal comfort and support, enhancing athletic performance and participation among women. Our research will proceed in three phases. First, we will evaluate breast biomechanics in dynamic movements using motion capture and wearable sensors, studying how breasts move during specific sports actions both in controlled lab settings and real-world environments. Second, we will determine the impact of real-world conditions by assessing how factors like running speed, surface type (e.g., grass, sand, artificial turf), and fatigue affect breast movement and bra performance. Finally, we will validate our new metrics and bra designs during actual sports events to ensure they meet the needs of female athletes in diverse activities. By combining scientific research with practical testing, this project aims to revolutionize sports bra design, leading to improved comfort, support, and performance for female athletes.