Breast Biomechanics in Women's Soccer

In this episode of the Femme FC Podcast, Nicole is joined by Nichola Renwick, Senior Research Associate at the University of Portsmouth, whose work focuses on breast biomechanics and sports bra design. Nichola breaks down what breast biomechanics actually is, how breasts move during sport, and why breast support should be considered a performance, health, and injury risk issue rather than just a comfort concern. She explains how breast movement changes during running, cutting, and jumping, and how inadequate support can alter stride length, running efficiency, breathing, ground reaction forces, and even joint loading. This conversation also explores how breast pain and discomfort influence athlete behavior, confidence, and movement patterns, as well as how cultural norms in women's soccer can shape sports bra choices in ways that do not always align with performance needs. Topics include: What breast biomechanics means and how breast movement is measured How breasts move in three directions during sport Why larger breast mass increases forces and acceleration How poor breast support reduces stride length and running efficiency The link between breast support, ground reaction forces, and joint loading Psychological and cultural factors influencing sports bra choices Compression vs encapsulation vs combination sports bras Key design features of high support sports bras How clubs can better educate players and staff about breast support This episode is essential listening for medical staff, performance practitioners, coaches, and anyone working to improve athlete health and performance in women's soccer.