University breast health experts team up with Portsmouth running club

The University of Portsmouth’s Research Group in Breast Health (RGBH) has partnered with local running club Running Late Southsea for an informative and empowering event to mark International Women’s Day. 

On Tuesday evening (4 March), experts will deliver a breast and bra education workshop at the Club House in Southsea between 6pm-7pm, followed by an interactive Q&A session. The free event is open to all women, regardless of whether they are experienced runners or new to exercise.

The RGBH, globally renowned for its expertise in breast biomechanics, is dedicated to improving scientific knowledge of breast health, informing the development of breast-related products, and raising awareness of this crucial aspect of women’s health. 

Its research has provided invaluable bra and breast health advice to elite athletes - including the England Lionesses - helping them achieve optimal performance and comfort.

Dr Nichola Renwick, Senior Research Associate in Breast Biomechanics in the RGBH, said: “Breast health is a vital but often overlooked aspect of women’s well-being, particularly for those engaged in physical activity. We are excited to partner with Running Late Southsea to share our knowledge and help women make informed choices about their breast support during exercise.”

The workshop aims to equip participants with essential information about breast movement, bra fitting, and the impact of breast health on exercise performance. The Q&A session will allow attendees to engage directly with experts, ask questions, and get practical advice.

PhD student Rose Johnston has helped create the workshop as part of her studies. She said: “It is such a privilege to work with athletes both local and international and utilise their feedback to create sustainable and effective breast and bra education for all.”

Running Late Southsea, an inclusive and supportive running community, is co-hosting Tuesday’s event. Molly McMaster from the club said: “We’re passionate about making running accessible and comfortable for everyone. Partnering with the RGBH is an incredible opportunity to learn from the best in the field and help our members feel confident in their breast health choices.”

The workshop underscores the University of Portsmouth’s commitment to advancing women’s health and ensuring research findings translate into meaningful real-world impact. 

The RGBH’s bra testing unit recently celebrated a decade of groundbreaking research. In that time, researchers have tested over 700 sports bras and their performance on over 8,000 women - which means they have monitored over one million breast bounces.

One of the most uplifting moments in British sport in recent years was the Lionesses’ win over Germany to become Euro 2022 champions. The final was sealed by an extra-time goal from Chloe Kelly, who immediately crowned her stardom by whipping off her shirt and showing to the world her sports bra, which had been prescribed and fitted by the Portsmouth team.

More about the research group can be found here.