Binders can be 'life-changing' for trans people. But are they safe to exercise in?
Binders are popular among trans and gender diverse people, but research is yet to show if they're safe to exercise in. A university has led the largest study so far in the search for answers, and the preliminary results are promising.
AFLW player Tilly Lucas-Rodd recalls the relief they felt when wearing a chest binder for the first time, describing it as "life-changing." Lucas-Rodd, who is non-binary and has had top surgery, relied on binders to reduce gender dysphoria before their procedure. However, binding can lead to side effects such as discomfort, pain, overheating, breathing restrictions, and skin irritation.
Experts are now investigating the safety of exercising while wearing a binder. Australian researchers found no significant differences in aerobic fitness, muscle strength, and lung function between exercising with or without a binder. This study, which included 21 participants who were assigned female at birth, provides reassurance that binding does not negatively impact exercise performance.
However, researchers emphasize the need for proper fitting and the use of custom-made binders to ensure safety during physical activity.
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