Lucas-Rodd felt 'trans joy' wearing a binder but are they safe to exercise in?
Introduction to Binding and Exercise
AFLW player Tilly Lucas-Rodd recalls the “trans joy” they felt when they first wore a chest binder, describing it as “incredible” and “life-changing.” As a non-binary individual, Lucas-Rodd has undergone top surgery to align their body with their internal identity. However, before the surgery, they relied on chest binders to reduce gender dysphoria, a common practice among trans men, non-binary, and masculine-identifying individuals assigned female at birth.
The Challenges of Binding
Binding can have unwanted side effects, including discomfort, pain, overheating, breathing restrictions, skin irritation, and more. Many trans and gender diverse people believe that binding while exercising may be harmful, a concern Lucas-Rodd shared. They experienced skin chafing and scarring under their armpits from ill-fitting binders and had to search online for information on binding while playing sports, only to find a lack of research on the topic.
Breaking Down Barriers: Australian Research
Australian researchers are working to close the gap in knowledge about binding and exercise. A preliminary study led by the Mental Health and Exercise Research Group at the University of Western Australia (UWA) has provided some reassurance. The study, conducted in conjunction with Curtin University, The University of New South Wales, The Kids Research Institute, and Thriving in Motion, found no significant differences in exercise performance with or without a binder.
Largest Study Yet Finds ‘Comforting’ Preliminary Results
The UWA-led project studied 21 individuals assigned female at birth, who were issued commercial binders and participated in two separate exercise sessions with and without a binder. Researchers assessed their aerobic fitness, muscle strength, and lung function, among other measures. The findings suggest that binding while exercising may not be as unsafe as previously perceived, according to PhD candidate Kai Schweizer.
Overcoming Barriers to Exercise
Schweizer explains that trans and gender diverse people already participate in sports and physical activity at lower rates than the general population, contributing to disparities in cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. The perception that exercising in a chest binder is unsafe is a significant barrier to exercise. The UWA study’s findings aim to inspire further research and reduce barriers for trans and gender diverse individuals to engage in physical activity.
The Importance of Finding the Right Fit
The study’s results come as welcome news to Adam Brownhill, medical director of a gender-affirming care clinic in Melbourne. Brownhill emphasizes the importance of finding the right type of binder and correct fit to ensure safety while exercising. DIY methods like taping can damage the skin, and proper fitting is crucial to avoid harm.
Custom Binding Solutions
Custom binding manufacturers, such as Sock Drawer Heroes and Transform Transwear, are working to provide safe and comfortable binding solutions. Simone Kelly, founder of Transform Transwear, was motivated to create her business after struggling to find suitable binders for her stepson Eli, who came out as trans seven years ago. Transform Transwear offers a physical space for trans and gender diverse individuals to be fitted safely and privately, and they have recently released a binder designed specifically for swimming.
Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction
While the preliminary findings of the UWA study are just the beginning, they provide a crucial step towards understanding the impact of binding on exercise. Research like this is critical for the health and well-being of trans and gender diverse people. As Kelly notes, the study’s results are a “great start” and a “step in the right direction” towards reducing barriers and promoting inclusion in sports and physical activity. Source: WorldNewsAPI | Read original