For many trans and gender diverse people, chest binding is an important and affirming practice. It can help alleviate gender dysphoria and support mental wellbeing by aligning one’s outward appearance with their gender. But when it comes to exercise, there’s a challenge: many community organisations currently advise against wearing chest binders during physical activity, leading many to avoid sports, workouts, or even certain jobs altogether.

These guidelines, however, aren’t grounded in strong scientific evidence. Despite widespread beliefs that binding may harm the body during exercise, research in this area is limited, and that’s something we aim to change.

A new research study led by the MHEX team is stepping up to explore the real impact of chest binding during both aerobic and resistance exercise.

The goal? To understand not only how binding affects the body physically, but how it impacts the way people feel in their bodies, including their comfort, confidence, and sense of restriction.

The project is being conducted by a stellar trans- and cis-lead team from Mental Health + Exercise Research Group, UWA School of Human Sciences, Thriving in Motion and UNSW, and informed by community advisors including Sock Drawer Heroes.

This work is more than just science – it’s about equity. By filling this critical knowledge gap, the findings will help reshape global guidance on exercise and binding. The insights will be shared with trans and LGBTIQ+ health organisations, community groups, binder suppliers, and healthcare professionals to better support trans individuals in safely and confidently participating in sport, recreation, and physical work.

Ultimately, this research could play a key role in improving physical and mental health outcomes for trans people around the world. Because everyone deserves to move, play, and thrive in ways that affirm who they are.

Keen for current best practice regarding binder safety? Check out this resource from Trans Health Research co-authored by team member Kai Schweizer – https://lnkd.in/gUyEQzSq

Check out the range of binders and learn more from our community advisors, Sock Drawer Heroes 

Photo above by Noah Prenter. Photos below of recent participants – thank you for allow us to share.