hi! I've a question, I bind wearing two sport bras bc I can't afford a binder, is it dangerous? My chest and back have only ached once, after wearing them for like 18hs or so, but sometimes I have some trouble breathing
Since sports bras are designed with movable and breathable material there should be little concern, but just to make sure you can check the following things:
- Take a deep breath in, hold it for two seconds, and then let it out. Was your chest able to expand fully, or did you feel as if you were cut short? Did doing this hurt your chest/rib cage? If you feel comfortable taking a deep breath you should be ok. You can also check to see if you can fit you fingers underneath the band to ensure there’s some give. - Check your chest and rib cage. Have you developed any bruises, rashes, or other skin irritations where the seams press against your skin? If you only notice the usual harmless red indents and nothing feels tender or hurts when you touch it you should be just fine.
To avoid any further pain or discomfort I would suggest the usual 8-12 hour binding limits. So when your day is done and you’re just relaxing at home you can remove one of you sports bras and slip on a hoody or something comfortable like that. Same goes for if you start to feel short of breath.
Also, if you (or anyone else) are at all interested in getting a binder sometime down the road Big Brothers Binder Program offers secondhand binders by $6-$12 donation. If you live within the US you can also check out In A Bind and Replace the Ace for free secondhand binders. (be forewarned that applying for a secondhand binder may take time and you might be added to a wait list)
Hope this helps! Stay safe!-Tyler
