Anyone can suffer from chafing, and ultra-fit athletes are no exception. From runners to bodybuilders, hikers, climbers, and more – let’s find out what these athletes use to prevent chafing.

Why do athletes get chafing?

There’s a common misperception out there that chafing only affects people who are overweight. This stereotype is categorically untrue. People of all genders, shapes, and sizes can experience chafing, and athletes are no exception. Chafing is a result of repetitive skin-on-skin or skin-on-fabric friction. Common chafing areas are the armpits, inner thighs, buttocks, and under breasts. So why do athletes experience chafing? Here are some common reasons:

• Physically active people are likely to sweat more, a significant contributing factor to chafing.
• Repetitive movements used in sports or exercise often cause repeated skin-on-skin or skin-against-fabric friction, which causes chafing.
• Activewear and sportswear can also be the culprit. Clothing that is either too loose or too tight can cause chafing during exercise.
• Sports clothing that uses non-breathable fabrics can also exacerbate sweating or leave clothing wet and more likely to rub.
• Muscle definition can also increase contact between skin and therefore chafing. For example, bodybuilders and athletes with large thigh muscles will not have a “thigh gap” and can therefore experience inner thigh chafing.

How athletes can prevent chafing

Chafing starts as a minor annoyance but can quickly become a very painful problem. If left untreated, chafing can hinder athletic performance and could become infected. You train hard, and the last thing you want is to cancel a running race or sporting event because of painful chafing. While chafing can be treated, prevention is even better. Athletes can avoid chafing altogether by taking these easy measures.

Choosing the right clothing

Athletes can prevent painful chafing by choosing proper clothing; this includes avoiding athletic running shorts or pants with seams on the inner thigh. Seams and tags can be irritating, so choose quality, streamlined clothing with fewer seams.

Get clothing that fits correctly, and choose snug-fitting, stretchy athletic clothing. Avoid baggy shorts or pants. Equally, ensure clothing isn’t overly tight, particularly around armholes or on sports bra bands, where fabric can dig into the skin. Remember that both looseness and tightness in clothing can result in rubbing and chafing.

Staying dry

Staying dry is equally crucial for athletes who want to prevent chafing. Moisture is a significant factor in causing chafing – and that’s bad news for people who enjoy working up a sweat. Where possible, keep yourself dry to help prevent chafing. Use towels to dry skin during workouts, and choose activewear made with moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics. Deodorant can also help reduce sweating and can be applied to more than just your armpits!

After working out, make sure you shower and dry your skin thoroughly. Good washing habits will eliminate residual salt from sweat, which can dry the skin and exacerbate chafing. If you can’t shower because you’re hiking out in the wilderness, try to use baby wipes to clean your skin. Keeping skin clean and dry is vital to avoiding chafing and critical in preventing infection if treating existing chafed or broken skin.

Wearing anti-chafing clothing

One of the best ways athletes prevent chafing is by creating a barrier between the skin that prevents contact. Anti-chafing clothing is designed to prevent skin-on-skin friction, so you never have to worry about chafing again. Bandelettes anti-chafing clothing is excellent for athletes who want to avoid chafing. Our black unisex anti-chafing bands are ideal for runners, bodybuilders, climbers, and other athletes. Bandelettes discrete thigh bands can easily be worn with running shorts, underneath pants, or leggings. Surprisingly, they can even be worn with swimsuits or bodysuits if you experience chafing during water activities.

Chafing doesn’t have to be a part of your workout routine. Athletes can use these tips to prevent chafing and focus on meeting their goals. If you’re ready to add Bandelettes® unisex workout bands to your fitness regime, check out our anti-chafing products and find your perfect fit.