Connection Between Breast Size and Exercise Levels: A Comprehensive Study Highlights Noteworthy Correlations

A recent investigation has found that women possessing larger breast sizes are less inclined to participate in high-intensity physical activities. Remarkably, a subsequent increase in involvement in group exercises was observed among these women following breast reduction surgery. These findings underscore the necessity for more readily available breast reduction surgeries funded by public health systems.

The study, recently published in the esteemed Journal of Reconstructive Surgery (JPRAS Open), adds further weight to the growing demands for easily accessible, government-funded breast reduction procedures in specific instances.

This research was carried out at Flinders University and was supported by Parkrun UK’s community research board, an entity committed to encouraging 5km running and walking events globally, accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

The survey collected data from nearly 2,000 women participating in the Parkrun initiative across Australia, England, and South Africa. The results indicated that women with larger breasts were of the belief that reducing their breast size would positively impact their performance and participation in physical exercises.

Of the 1,987 women surveyed, all 56 who had opted for breast reduction surgery indicated that they led healthier and more physically active lives post-procedure. Dr. Claire Baxter, the study’s lead author and a clinical registrar in reconstructive surgery at Flinders Medical Centre, noted, “Women who had received breast reduction surgery displayed a heightened frequency, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage in group exercise activities. Our study concludes that breast size is a factor that influences exercise behavior, and that undergoing breast reduction can alter one’s inclination to exercise.”

The study aimed to focus solely on women without a history of breast cancer. Its objective was to examine the effect of breast size on the exercise habits of women, particularly in comparison with those who had undergone breast reduction surgery.

Additionally, the research—co-authored by Associate Professor Nicola Dean of Flinders University—highlighted the significance of consistent physical exercise in managing weight and reducing the risk of ischemic heart diseases. It also drew attention to the limitations imposed by the Australian Government’s Medicare Benefits Schedule concerning subsidies for breast reduction, commonly known as reduction mammoplasty.

Associate Professor Dean elaborated, “Various state-level criteria must be met for breast reduction procedures to be approved, such as suffering from macromastia or neck and shoulder pain. In regions like Queensland, Victoria, and Tasmania, BMI restrictions can result in waiting periods exceeding a year. The situation in the UK also varies by location due to the National Health Service’s differing priorities for breast reduction surgeries.”

The study also made comparisons between 5km Parkrun competition timings and bra sizes, along with assessing satisfaction levels related to cup sizes. The findings revealed higher levels of contentment among women with cup sizes AA to C, as compared to those with sizes DD and above.

Furthermore, the study identified a significant correlation between life satisfaction, happiness, and bra size. Women with cup sizes exceeding E generally reported lower mean scores.

The study concluded with Dr. Baxter advocating for increased awareness and scholarly backing for the benefits of breast reduction surgery.

Reference: “Self-reported breast size, exercise habits and BREAST-Q data – an international cross-sectional study of community runners” by Claire R. Baxter, Tamara A. Crittenden and Nicola R. Dean, published on 1 July 2023, JPRAS Open. DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2023.06.013.

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More about Breast Size and Exercise

• Journal of Reconstructive Surgery (JPRAS Open)
• Flinders University
• Parkrun UK
• Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule
• National Health Service (NHS) UK