Title: Binders bring gender-diverse people 'trans joy' but are they safe for exercise?Link To: Article 🔗 [Link: abc.net.au/news/2026-08-13/binders-exercise-gender-diverse-trans-research-safety-unknown/106990788/]Author: Kate O'Halloran
Date: Posted Thu 13 Aug 2026 at 6:00am, updated Fri 14 Aug 2026 at 1:40pm
Trigger Warning: None
Brief summary of the articleAustralian researchers are studying whether chest binders can be used safely during exercise by trans and gender-diverse people. Preliminary findings from a University of Western Australia-led study found no significant differences between exercising with and without a binder, while researchers and clinicians said more long-term research and proper fitting guidance are needed.
Main Points of the Article"AFLW player Tilly Lucas-Rodd remembers the "trans joy" they felt the first time they wore a chest binder."
"Australian researchers are now trying to close the gap on a lack of knowledge about binding and exercise, with preliminary results from one study led by the Mental Health and Exercise Research Group at the University of Western Australia (UWA), providing some reassurance."
"Researchers found no significant differences when participants were wearing or not wearing a binder, a finding PhD candidate Kai Schweizer says helps dispel the "non-evidence based" perception that binding while exercising is unsafe."
"Our research is not a definitive answer but it's the first step in trying to better understand the impact of binding on exercise."
"Dr Brownhill does, however, emphasise the importance of finding the right type of binder, and correct fit, to ensure safety while exercising."
"Obviously we need to do more research to help give us more detailed guidance, but this is a great start. It's a step in the right direction."
Best Wishes AlwaysSarah BGlobal Moderator
