Underwear for long days at the gym

Short answer: For long days at the gym, underwear should be soft, sit calmly and cope with sweat without chafing. Choose flat seams and a waistband that does not roll, and change into something dry afterwards so you do not sit around in damp clothes.

What to look for at the gym

You wear underwear for many hours, even when you only train for one. It should be soft, free of hard seams and have a waistband that does not cut in when you bend. A pair you forget you are wearing is the best sign at the gym.

Sweat and moisture through the whole day

A long day at the gym means changing temperatures, from a warm studio to a cool changing room and then the office. Underwear should keep up and not hold on to moisture. Take a look at bamboo underwear for women, which is soft and light on the skin.

Chafing and seams

Chafing happens when seams, labels and tight waistbands rub against the skin, and it gets worse when you sweat. Choose underwear with flat seams and no scratchy labels, and turn it inside out to check. Avoid anything that scratches before you wear it.

Knickers that stay in place

When you run, jump or lift, knickers should stay where they are without rolling up or cutting in. Try bamboo knickers in a fit that sits calmly, and look for a wide waistband and soft leg openings. Bring two pairs if the day is long.

A T-shirt or top on top

What you wear over your underwear also affects comfort, so choose something soft and airy. A bamboo T-shirt for women fits well over a sports bra and underwear and is easy to change. An extra layer in the bag is always good to have after training.

Pack the bag for the whole day

Pack a clean set of underwear, a T-shirt and a small towel so you can change when you are done. Do not leave sweaty clothes at the bottom of the bag, but take them out and let them air. A few bags for wet items keep everything else dry and fresh.

Washing after the gym

Wash underwear after every wear and have enough sets to change through the week. Use a mild detergent, little fabric softener and follow the label. Dry it fully before putting it in the drawer so no moisture stays behind and causes a smell.

Small habits after training

Take a short shower as soon as you finish and change into dry clothes straight away. Drink water and give your skin time to cool before pulling on tight clothing. Small habits after training make the difference between a comfortable afternoon and an irritating one.

Frequently asked questions

How often should underwear be washed after the gym?

Wash it after every wear if you have sweated. Use a mild detergent and dry it fully so no moisture stays behind, which can cause smell and irritate the skin.

How do I avoid chafing at the gym?

Choose underwear with flat seams and a waistband that does not squeeze, and avoid labels that rub. When clothes sit calmly, there is less to chafe during running and lifting.

Should I bring spare underwear?

Yes, a clean set in the bag is a good idea, especially if you train in the middle of the day. Then you can change into dry clothes when you are done.