Yes after years of being a dedicated racer back girl I have been converted back to "normal" straps. The difference: I no longer have shoulder and neck pain.
However, my shoulder just kept nagging me. My long cycles were becoming a problem, I was constantly moving and stretching my neck and shoulder. My legs never give out but this left shoulder of mine was on overdrive. I was taping it up, popping pain killers occasionally, using heat, stretching the heck out of it, doing yoga and wearing out my massage balls!
BRA SHOPPING
When your active you need support, comfort, durability and breathability. Plus there is always value for money and machine wash ability. NO, I don't hand wash anything! I don't buy anything that is hand wash only. I don't iron anything either for that matter.
My shoulder and neck aches have subsided and I am no longer tearing the shoulder off myself with massage balls. I am so much more comfortable on my bike and my pins and needles have disappeared. I still continue to get physical therapy every 4- 5 weeks just for maintenance as I am so active. My neck also feels great and so much more mobile.
I know I look a bit stupid with my straps outside my racer back top and I run the risk of getting strap marks when the sun shines (which for me is worse than any pain in the neck!) But, it's so worth it. To be comfortable, pain free and able to sleep without this deep, boring, achy pain in my shoulder is worth more than vanity.
I ended up buying two more of the same bra. If I find something that fits, is comfortable and does the job I just buy more of them! Like I said, I hate shopping. When I found one that worked for me I was able to buy more online. Delivered to my door leaving me more time to train, cycle and go on holidays!

About the Author:
Sinéad Kennedy is a Physical Therapist, Yoga Siromani and PilatesInstructor. She has recently qualified as a Personal Development Coach. Based in both Rathfarnham and Dundrum, South County Dublin. She treats and teaches people from all walks of life, including many athletes, especially cyclists, runners and golfers. Recently featured in the Irish Independent, FIT Magazine, her Yoga 4 Cyclists class has gained notoriety.
A keen cyclist and proud member of Orwell Wheelers she has completed numerous cycling events including Les Cingles du Mont Ventoux & La Marmotte Sportive. She is an accomplished audax-er having done numerous 200km and 300km routes. Sinéad has also completed three Dublin City Marathons, numerous Adventure Races and Half Marathons.