Australian study finds chest binders may be safe for exercise

A collaborative study involving the University of Western Australia, Curtin University, the University of New South Wales, the Kids Research Institute and Thriving in Motion examined 21 people assigned female at birth who had never worn a chest binder before. Each participant received a professionally fitted commercial binder and completed aerobic, strength and lung-function tests in separate sessions with and without the binder.

The researchers found no statistically significant changes in any of the measured outcomes, offering early reassurance that short-term binding may not impair exercise performance. The team acknowledges the sample size and short-term focus as limitations and calls for larger, longitudinal studies. Medical director Adam Brownhill highlighted the importance of proper fit and warned against DIY solutions, while custom-binder makers such as Sock Drawer Heroes and Transform Transwear see the findings as a step toward greater sport inclusion for trans and gender-diverse athletes.