Shaping underwear is often associated with stylish dresses, tight trousers and occasions when you want that little extra confidence. But what if you want to wear your shapewear while you exercise too? Is that even comfortable? Does it really work? And is it healthy?
We at Shapetape have tested it for you. In this blog we share the dos and don'ts of exercising in shaping underwear, so you know exactly when it makes sense to wear it – and when it doesn't.
Why wear shapewear while you exercise?
It may sound contradictory, but some people actually feel more secure exercising in shaping underwear. Think of high-waisted shorts that support your tummy during yoga, or shaping leggings that just feel a little firmer on a brisk walk. Especially after pregnancy or while you're building your fitness, shapewear can give a feeling of extra support.
Shaping underwear is designed to shape and smooth, and some modern shapewear is so comfortable it almost feels like sportswear. But beware: that's far from true of all types of shapewear.
Do: choose breathable, flexible materials
The first golden rule? Your shapewear needs to breathe. When you exercise, you sweat and move, so you need material that wicks away moisture and goes along with every movement.
Our shaping underwear collection includes several options made from breathable fabrics such as microfibre or spandex blends. They're light, flexible and don't feel stuffy.
That way you can wear shapewear without feeling restricted – even during light activities such as walking, stretching or Pilates.
Don't: wear shapewear for intense workouts
For intense workouts such as running, HIIT or strength training, shaping underwear generally isn't a good choice. Why?
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It restricts your freedom of movement
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You can overheat
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It can affect your circulation
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The compression can become uncomfortable over longer periods
Instead, choose proper sportswear with built-in support, such as sports leggings with a shaping effect or a sports bra with a firm band.
So shapewear works well for light activities, but it's no substitute for sportswear when you really work up a sweat.
Do: wear shapewear for low-impact activities
Want to look good and feel comfortable at a yoga class, a gentle training session or on a walk in the park? Then light shaping underwear is a good choice.
Lots of women wear high-waisted shorts under their gym trousers or leggings, for example, for extra stability around the tummy and waist. Shaping vest tops are popular too, for a smooth silhouette under a loose sports top.
Another advantage: shapewear can reduce thigh chafing and often gives extra support for your lower back – something lots of people find comfortable during longer activities.
Don't: wear shapewear that digs in or rubs
If your shapewear is too tight, you'll notice straight away when you exercise. It can restrict your breathing, rub your skin and even cause pressure marks during longer activity.
So make sure you get the right size. Shapewear should fit snugly, but not so tight that you feel restricted or can't move freely. If you're unsure, go a size up – especially if you want to wear it while you exercise.
At Shapetape you can easily find your size using our size chart – so your shaping underwear stays comfortable when you're on the move too.
Do: pay attention to hygiene and care
You sweat when you exercise – that's completely normal. That's why your shapewear should be washed more often. Choose styles you can easily wash by hand or in a wash bag at 30 degrees. Use a mild detergent and leave it to air-dry, ideally flat or hung in shape.
Our shapewear is made from durable materials that keep their shape and stretch even after lots of washes. So you can wear your favourite piece again and again – on active days too.
Conclusion
You can wear shapewear while you exercise – as long as you choose the right style and the right activity. For gentle workouts, or when you'd like a bit of extra support, it's a good solution. For intense sessions, though, breathable sportswear is the better choice.
At Shapetape you'll find a wide range of shaping underwear that doesn't just shape well but is comfortable to wear too. Our styles are made to support you your way – at a party, at work and on the move.
