Tops and sports bras – how to choose them and choose the right size?

You know that feeling of being distracted when you're in downward dog, but instead of focusing on your breathing, you're focusing on the fact that your bra is tight, shifting, or simply not holding you in place? A properly fitting sports top is the foundation of a successful workout. It's an element that allows you to completely forget about what you're wearing and shift your attention inward.

Many women unknowingly wear the wrong size or style, putting unnecessary strain on their breasts—specifically, the delicate Cooper's ligaments. We'll guide you through measuring, choosing the right level of support for your type of movement (from gentle yin yoga to dynamic cardio), and explain why technical fabrics perform so much better than regular cotton.

Why is choosing a sports bra so important for your health?

It's worth realizing one anatomical fact: the breasts don't have muscles . They're composed primarily of fat, glandular tissue, and skin. Their entire weight rests on a delicate structure called Cooper's ligaments . These ligaments are responsible for the breasts' firmness and shape.

During physical activity, the breasts move not only up and down but also sideways, creating a so-called "figure eight" motion. Without proper support, this movement can permanently stretch the ligaments. Once this occurs, the process is irreversible, and the breasts lose their natural elasticity.

We often think that the problem is only related to running or large cup sizes. This is a myth. Even with smaller busts and during static asanas, gravity still exerts its influence. Therefore, proper support is essential regardless of your size or the intensity of your workout.

How to choose your sports bra size?

Forget about your everyday lace size for a moment. Athletic tops have their own rules. They're usually based on clothing sizes (XS, S, M, L, or numerical 34-42) , which combine cup and band measurements. Finding the perfect fit just takes a moment and a measuring tape. Don't guess – measure yourself, because your body changes more often than you think.

How to measure the circumference under the bust and around the bust?

It's best to take your measurements wearing a soft bra (no padding) or naked. Stand straight in front of a mirror to check the tape measure's position.

1. Circumference under the bust: This is the most important measurement. Wrap the measuring tape around your body directly under your breasts. Exhale and pull the tape tight enough to fit snugly but not painfully. The band of your bra provides most of the support, so this measurement must be accurate.

2. Bust circumference: Place the measuring tape at the fullest point of your bust (usually at the nipple). The tape should fit loosely here – don't flatten your breasts. Make sure it's the same height at the front and back.

Tip: JOYINME's sizing (marked 34, 36, 38, etc.) differs from typical underwear sizes (e.g., 75B). Our charts provide flat measurements. A good way to verify this is to measure your favorite, well-fitting top at home and compare these measurements with our charts. Remember that athletic knit fabric is stretchy , so the top should be slightly smaller than your body for proper fit.

Example of a Breeze sports top size chart

How do you know if a bra fits properly?

Numbers are one thing, but what matters most is how you feel in a sports bra while moving. In the fitting room (or at home), do the "three-point test."

1. Waist circumference: It should lie flat across your sternum and back. Test it: place two fingers under the band. If they go in with slight resistance, it's great. If there's a lot of slack there, go for a smaller size. Also, perform a simple movement: raise your arms high up (like in the Tree pose). If the band rides up on your chest, it's definitely too loose.

2. Cups: The entire bust should be enclosed in the material. If your breasts are spilling out at the top or sides (forming so-called "buns"), you need a larger size or a model with a higher neckline. On the other hand, the material should not wrinkle or stick out.

3. Straps: Their purpose is to stabilize, not carry all the weight. They shouldn't dig into your skin, leaving red marks, or fall off your shoulders every time you bend. In models with a supportive back design, such as the Goddess (with a striking cutout) or the Breeze (with thin, crisscross straps) , the straps are designed to allow the shoulder blades to move freely while keeping the top in place.

Which sports bra should you choose for your type of activity?

Every activity requires tailored support. Your body works differently during meditation than during interval training. At JOYINME, we divide our tops into three levels of support to make it easier to find the right one.

Low Support – for yoga, pilates and relaxation

This bra is perfect for those with smaller to medium-sized breasts, or for women looking for lingerie for gentle practices like Hatha or Yin Yoga . It's designed to be almost imperceptible, providing gentle support without any pressure.

• Characteristics: Extraordinary softness, elasticity and a "second skin" feel.

• Our pick: Grace and Breeze collections , as well as other tops made with ease™ fabric . Their brushed finish makes them soft to the touch and allows for full, deep diaphragmatic breathing.

Medium Support – for dynamic yoga, barre, and strength training

As the pace increases, you need more stability. This level of support is ideal for Vinyasa, Power Yoga , or Pilates training . It's also a good option for larger busts during more relaxed exercises.

• Features: Stronger material compression, often wider straps and a higher neckline.

• Our selection: Top Release . Its design ensures that everything stays in place, even during sudden torso twists or bends.

High Support – for running and intense cardio

There's no room for compromise here. Running, cycling, and jumping generate shocks that require solid cushioning. A bra must hold the breasts close to the rib cage, minimizing their movement.

• Features: Densely woven, heavyweight material, strong hold and closed front.

• Our pick: The Goddess bra , made of bonded fabric . This is a model for special occasions – it holds everything in check even during the most dynamic moments, and the cutout at the back adds a touch of lightness.

The material in your workout top matters – which one should you choose?

We often focus on color, forgetting what our skin feels like. At JOYINME, we use two proprietary material technologies that differ in feel and purpose. It's worth knowing what to expect.

• Ease™ fabric (e.g., in the Grace, Ultimate models): It's buttery soft to the touch , with a subtle brushed-on feel. If you have sensitive skin and are looking for a top that follows your every move, this is the perfect choice. It's quick-drying, but comfort is paramount.

• Bond material (e.g. in the Goddess model): It's smooth, cool, and slippery to the touch . It has a firmer structure, which allows for excellent body shaping and greater compression. Choose it if you're looking for more support and a slimming effect.

Details in sports bras that make a difference – pads, backs and cuts

Sometimes it's the little things that decide whether a particular model becomes your favorite. What should you look for when browsing the offer?

• Removable inserts: In models like Grace, Breeze, and Release, these are standard features. The inserts shape the bust nicely and provide discretion (by concealing the nipples). However, if you prefer maximum breathability or a natural shape, you can remove them at any time.

• Open back and straps: The striking cutouts in the Breeze and Goddess models aren't just for style. Less fabric on the back means better ventilation during hot sessions and complete freedom of movement for the shoulder blades – nothing drags or restricts the reach of the arms.

• Crop top vs classic bra: If you enjoy working out in high-waisted leggings , longer models (so-called longline) like the Ultimate or Grace top are a great option. They replace a T-shirt, creating a complete, stylish outfit without the need for additional layers.

A well-fitting sports bra is an investment in your health and the enjoyment of every movement. Remember that your body changes over time, so it's worth checking your measurements regularly. Whether you're looking for softness for meditation or support for running , you'll find a model for you at JOYINME .

Check out our collection of tops and sports bras and find your perfect style for the mat and everyday wear.