Body positivity is defined to be the belief that everyone deserves a healthy body image,
regardless of how society and mass culture define perfect form, height, or attractiveness. It’s
preaching self love and acceptance for everyone.
But this doesn’t mean we aren’t allowed to do things to improve ourselves. As humans, we’re
always welcome to change or improve parts of ourselves we want to.
Shapewears, like waist trainers or cinchers are a prime example. They can make you feel pretty
good about yourself because you look fitter and slimmer than you usually do, and your posture
also changes, giving you a more confident appearance.
In the end it’s all about moderation really. This means it’s best to take information about waist
trainers with a grain of salt.
Now if you want to look your best without having to wear waist trainers, you can always stick to
wearing clothes that flatter your curves. There are tons of stores that offer clothing that hug your
body tightly, and even give the illusion that you’re wearing a waist trainer. Check these stores
out if you prefer to pass on the waist trainers.
However, if you’re still willing to jump on the waist trainer bandwagon, there are a few things you
need to know. Ahead, we answer some questions and give out some tips to help your waist
training journey run as smooth as possible.
Why are waist trainers not recommended for sleeping?
Many advocates of waist training recommend wearing a waist trainer for eight hours or more per
day. The extra hours of the waist trainer optimize waist training advantages, which is why they
recommend wearing it overnight.
BUT wearing a waist trainer to bed is a big no no for health and safety reasons. I mean, yes it
could seem like a good idea to try to shed pounds or get that coveted hourglass shape while
sleeping, but it’s too big of a risk.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, for example, does not recommend wearing waist
trainers for extended periods of time, let alone at night.
According to Healthline, some of the reasons why you do not wear one while sleeping are:
- Potential effects on acid reflux
- Obstructing proper digestion
- Reducing lung capacity
- Depriving the body of oxygen
- Causing physical pain and sleep disruption
- Force internal organs like the kidney and liver into abnormal positions
- Internal organ function is damaged through crowding
- Cause rib fractures
- Obstructs the lymphatic system
- Create digestive tract blockages
If you really are considering trying waist training make sure to consult with your doctor first.
Tips on wearing waist trainers safely
Waist trainers are fine as long as it’s used safely and properly. As mentioned above, it’s best
to get a medical professional’s opinion first before starting your waist training journey. Keywords
here are safely and properly.
Now you may wonder what “safely and properly” entails, well to start you can follow these tips.
- Listen to what your body tells you – Waist training is highly personal and reliant on
your body, so listen to what it needs and let it tell you what works best for you. If your
body is not reacting so well, if you’re having trouble breathing, loosen your waist trainer
or stop using it. There is nothing more important than your safety. - Get the right size – Poorly fitted corsets are inconvenient, and contrary to popular
belief, wearing a corset that is too small would not help you achieve your goals faster.
That would just set you back and you will most likely be in agony and will have to trade
for another corset, putting your waist training on hold! - Don’t rush it – Waist training isn’t something you’re supposed to jump into. It’s a process
that needs to be taken gradually. Don’t tighten to the point that it’s unbearable. Take
your time lacing yourself up tighter. We understand why you want to see the results as
soon as possible, but if you do too much too soon, you risk compromising the corset and
your health. - Skip the waist trainer while working out – While we advocate wearing a corset in conjunction with proper exercise and a balanced diet, we do not recommend wearing one when exercising.
The Bottom Line
Waist trainers do not permanently reshape your waist. Instead, they increase the core
temperature, which burns the fat on your stomach. Since your body burns calories more quickly
as the temperature rises, consider them a better way to lose weight.
These waist trainers also encourage perspiration, which helps to get rid of extra water weight
and toxins around your waist.
Like all things, waist trainers or shapewear in general have their pros and cons. As long as you
follow safety precautions and wear your waist trainers properly, you can use them to make you
feel great about yourself.