[123RF]
[123RF]

A growing trend of women exercising without underwear at gyms in the United Kingdom has sparked a hygiene debate online.

A survey of 1,500 British women conducted by UK underwear brand Pourmore found that 5 percent of respondents rarely or never wear underwear while working out. British outlet Metro recently reported on the findings.

Since the survey results came to light, opinions have been sharply divided online. Some argue that wearing underwear during exercise is uncomfortable and restrictive, while others contend that direct skin contact with shared gym equipment poses a hygiene concern.

While going without underwear is not considered directly harmful to health, experts say it can increase the risk of skin problems caused by sweat, moisture and friction. Dr. Asiya Maula, a UK-based specialist in health medicine and functional medicine, said exercising without underwear means sweat, bacteria and bodily secretions transfer directly onto workout clothing, which then clings to the skin when wet.

Maula said friction can also become a problem during lower-body workouts. Underwear helps reduce chafing between the skin and workout clothing, she said, and wearing tight-fitting activewear without it can cause irritation in the groin and inner thigh areas.

Wearing underwear does not automatically guarantee better hygiene, however. Keeping sweat-soaked underwear on for extended periods creates a warm, humid environment that encourages bacterial and fungal growth. Experts advise that changing out of sweaty clothes promptly after exercise and washing them thoroughly matters more than whether underwear is worn at all.


husn7@heraldcorp.com