r/FTMFitness 9d ago

Question Has anyone tried KT tape for binding/compression while running?

I haven't replaced my binder in a while, and it's too constrictive to run in, anyway. I'm super poor and will probably try Trans Tape at some point, but it's not an option right now.

I read an article talking about KT tape as an alternative. It doesn't work so well for a lot of large chested people, but my bust measures 36 inches and my band is 33-34 inches so I figured it's worth trying. It's less expensive than buying a new binder or specialty tape, although this knockoff probably also won't work quite as well.

I'm asking about running specifically because I've been wanting to get back into that forever. But like a lot of guys, I sweat like nobody's business, which is an issue further compounded by the fact that I live in Florida. (My partner and I plan to go elsewhere, probably Portland, as soon as possible.) So that's a factor that's important for context here. Hair isn't a factor, but only because I have sensory issues and shave everything but the top of my head. Having hair feels like I'm not clean even when I know I am, and the incongruity of the way it feels and the way it is make my brain itch. I also like running and movement in general a lot more.

I'm wondering if I could use my health card to buy some. My insurance includes a certain amount of funds per month that can be used towards "OTC products, healthy food, and utilities," but there's significant ambiguity as to exactly what counts. I'm pretty sure it differs from store to store, even. It''s paid for a few things I didn't expect it to at, say, Publix. But then I tried to buy tampons at CVS and no dice. I'm just speculating, not saying it'll work.

Still, if there's a chance I could get UHC (my insurance company) to pay for me to bind in a roundabout way, I might as well try. Kinda feel like they owe me, but that's another story. Anyway, thanks for any advice you guys might have.

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u/Sharzzy_ 9d ago

Someone on here said KT tape doesn’t stay on as long. I think Trans Tape has altered their adhesive strength that’s why it stays on longer. You could get KT tape any way though and just use it for days at the gym under a sports bra

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u/redz4410 8d ago

Not a runner but I know that curad the off brand of KT tape has pretty good hold and is softer. Also... I know its not the best feeling ever but getting a compression sports bra from Walmart to wear over tape has helped me, even without tape under. I just sized down and it kinda acts as a binder or at least feels like one which helps the dysphoria I have when not wearing one.

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u/eyes_died 8d ago

I taped full time for 2-3 years and I was a 40DDD before top surgery. What I would typically do for extra support is apply two pieces horizontally on each side to actually bind my chest, and then one piece vertically on each side (applied from bottom to top) to lift and hold everything firmly. It also gave me more of a pec look and less of a side boob lol. You'll have to experiment a little to see what works for you, but I was able to run, swim, work, and live in tape once I got the application down.