Can You Wear Breast Forms While Running?

YES! For many women after mastectomy, running to improve your health and fitness is an easy and low-cost way to exercise. Whether you are running marathons or just taking a short jog around the park, there are some things to consider to make sure you are comfortable and feel confident when you set off!

Here are our tips for running after mastectomy, while remaining comfortable, supported and confident in your active lifestyle.

 

Tip 1: Get the right kit!

Before you start on your fitness journey, you need to make sure that you have the right tools for the job. There are three essential items that will make a huge difference.

Breast forms for running – running with a heavy silicone prosthesis can be uncomfortable, and feel hot, heavy and sweaty. Lightweight breast forms that help you stay active, like a Boost Mandala in the Shape or Curve range will reduce the discomfort on your chest and shoulders as you move. The Boost has another advantage; it’s open structure means that air can circulate, keeping your chest cooler and minimizing contact to avoid rubbing on sensitive scar areas as you run. At least 50% lighter than a traditional prosthesis, Boost breast forms have enough structure to ‘stay put’ and retain your symmetry whilst feeling lighter against the body while you are active – the perfect breast forms for running.
Your sports bra – if you are exercising wearing a traditional gel prosthesis, you’ll probably need a pocketed sports bra to hold everything in place. It’s worth noting here that Boost breast forms do not necessarily need a pocketed bra (which might save you a few extra pounds for that post-run latte in the coffee shop!). Go for one that says ‘high impact’ or ‘shock absorber’ on the label – these are ‘hold everything in place’ bras that can help counteract breast/ breast form movement as you run.
Your trainers – get some advice from a sports shop. Just like your chest, your feet will need support too! Finding the right footwear for your run can make all the difference.

 

Tip 2: Get the right support

It’s not only your boobs that need support – if you’ve got plans to get fitter and healthier for 2024, staying motivated is key! When taking up running after mastectomy you can:

Talk to your healthcare team, breast care nurse or GP – it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare professionals when making a lifestyle change, so they can give you advice based on your body and your experiences.
Join a group – whether it’s a local running group or a breast cancer support group, sharing your fitness journey and getting tips from others can be hugely useful. We love the Flat Friends UK charity which has a closed Facebook group where members can discuss topics relating to breast form wearing in confidence with other women who have shared experiences.
Celebrate your progress – make sure you find ways to monitor your fitness journey and reward your successes, whatever they look like. Fitness apps are a great way to do this, but they aren’t essential. Just marking your exercise days on the kitchen calendar will help you see how far you’ve come!

 

Tip 3: Listen to your body

Running after a mastectomy is a great way to be active and improve fitness. It’s fun too! But make sure that you take things steady to avoid any unintended consequences.

Start slowly – to make sure you minimize the risks of injury, discomfort and overdoing it, start slowly and build up your stamina. This means that you’ll get the chance to test out your light weight prosthesis, bra, trainers and running routes to make sure it all works well and you feel comfortable and confident.
Manage fatigue – ensure you take breaks if you need them and have days off from your exercise schedule to recover.
Stay hydrated – it’s really important to keep your fluid levels high when you are being active. Grab that water bottle and make sure you slurp regularly!

 

Other things to consider…

 

Can I run after a mastectomy?

While running is a great way to work on your health after a mastectomy, there are a few important things to consider. If running with breast forms, please make sure you are fully healed before doing so. The Brigham and Women’s Hospital advise to wait at least 2 weeks before running after mastectomy. Vigorous movement can slow the healing process, and potentially cause further damage. Start with gentle shoulder exercises after the first 1-2 days instead, making sure not to push yourself too hard!

If you’re unsure about how to exercise safely after a mastectomy, speak to your breast care nurse or physiotherapist. They will be able to give you tailored advice and can recommend specific exercises that will help you get back to your peak form in no time. 

 

How to improve body image after mastectomy?

For many women, undergoing a mastectomy can impact life in a plethora of ways. Body image is just one area that may be impacted following surgery. This is why we believe it is important to take a holistic approach to your recovery, remembering to look after the mind as well as the body.

If your self image has been affected after your mastectomy, exercise is a great way to rebuild your relationship with your body. The surge of endorphins accompanied by the rewarding feeling of completing a workout can really help to shift your mindset when looking in the mirror. It is a slow and steady process, and you must remember that you are exercising to connect with your body, not necessarily to change it.

There are also a variety of breast cancer support groups spread across the globe, who are there to listen and help. These communities, whether online or in-person, can be a great way to share your story, and to connect with others who have had similar experiences. Talking to others will help you to gain a new perspective, and will gradually rebuild your confidence overtime. At Boost, we like to point our women towards Flat Friends UK. A UK-based charity set up to support women after breast cancer.

For any questions, queries, or concerns related to this article, please contact us on hello@wewearboost.com.