Changes of Cardiopulmonary and Metabolic Functions during Jogging with and without Breast Supports: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background:To shed light on the physiologic reasons behind exercise intolerance in active females, we investigated the physiological changes of cardiopulmonary and metabolic functions during jogging with and without breast supports.Methods/Design:Thirteen healthy females participated in three randomized jogging trials of no bra (NB, served as control), and two breast supports of casual bra (CB), and jogging bra (JB). Immediate effects of bras on static and dynamic lung functions were identified by using the standard pulmonary function test. Metabolic changes and cardiovascular functions were continuously determined at rest, during jogging and recovery. Results: Results showed the only immediate effect of donning jogging bra on temporary reductions in resting respiratory flow rates (forced expiratory volume in 1 second and maximum voluntary ventilation) (P<0.05) compared with pre-bras values, while static lung function remained unchanged. Theabove immediate effects of breast support on respiratory flow reductions regained during exercise. All cardiorespiratory and metabolic variables were similar among conditions (P>0.05) of either at rest, during or after jogging. Only casual bra showed significant late recovery in tidal volume, oxygen consumption and energy expenditure compared with resting values. Conclusions: Any types of breast support exhibit no limitation on cardiorespiratory and metabolic functions during jogging. Jogging with breast support is recommended during exercise for health promotion and wellbeing in adolescent girls and women.Trial registration: The current study was retrospectively registered. Clinicaltrials.in.th TCTR20200311002. Registered 11 March 2020.