Chafing can be a run-ruiner. Follow these tips and tricks to stop chafing so you can have a more enjoyable running experience!
It’s no secret that I’ve been dealing with quite a bit of chafing this summer. It’s been exceptionally hot and humid. Plus I’ve been wearing shorts that are probably past their prime. (They’re cute, what can I say?) I even runfessed that I chafed three times in one week recently. Ack!!
If you’ve never experienced chafing, consider yourself lucky. It’s not a pretty sight. I’ve fallen victim to chafing time and again and it doesn’t feel awesome. So how can you stop chafing and run happy? Find out!
5 Tricks for Runners to Stop Chafing
Chafing occurs when the skin is rubbed raw during athletic activity. It can happen due to clothing being too tight or restrictive, a piece of fabric touching skin in just the “right” way to cause excessive rubbing, or by simply being too wet and sweaty. Friction, restriction, and wet skin are all contributors to chafing. If you don’t want to chafe, you must address those factors.
1. Run when humidity is low.
When humidity is high, you’re almost guaranteed to sweat more. Avoid chafing by running when the humidity is at its lowest for the day.
2. If you can’t run when humidity is low, run during the coolest part of the day.
It’s not always possible to run when humidity is low. If you’re unable to get out with low humidity, try to run when it’s cooler out. Think 6:00 am instead of 11:00 am.
3. Lube up — a lot!
Lube is a runner’s best friend and one of the easiest ways to stop chafing. There’s no such thing as too much lube when it comes to running in hot and humid conditions. Lube up much more than you think you need and be sure to slather it on nice and thick.
Some good ones to try include:
- Trail Toes
- Betwixt Chamois Cream
- Body Glide
- Body Glide Skin
- Squirrel’s Nut Butter
- Pjur Active Anti-Chafing Gel
Keep trying different brands until you find one that works for you. And don’t be afraid to try another one later down the line if your tried-and-true stops working!
4. Don’t forget your toes!
Don’t forget to care for your feet. Lube those tootsies of yours especially if you’re running trails with water crossings!
5. Wear appropriately fitting clothing.
Word to the wise: if your clothes are too tight, too loose, or too anything, you have a high probability of chafing. And it won’t be pretty. Thighs, groin, underarms, bra line — make sure whatever it is fits how it’s supposed to or you’ll be sorry!
One last pearl here — if you do chafe, get some Aquaphor. It will help speed the healing process and soothe the skin while it’s still somewhat raw.
Happy running!
xo
Let’s talk!
What’s your trick for staying chafe-free?
Do you have a favorite brand of lube?
Check out the original version of this post from September 2017!
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