Waist Training

I get questions periodically on waist training so I've spent some time looking into it. Here are some brief answers to a few questions I've received.

1.  What is waist training? Is there anything wrong with doing it?

 

Waist training isn't a new practice BUT it is a "new" popular and trendy practice. I see it everywhere from YouTube to celebrities and its growing in popularity. It basically a gradual process that involves wearing a corset for long hours at a time each day for and extended period of time (months/years) to compress your core. When wearing it as directed, it should decrease the size of your waistline and shape your midsection "permanently" over time. Not only has it shaped some but it has helped with posture and digestion of some wearers. One thing to take note of is that, it is a shaper. It does not cause you to lose weight or burn fat. The corset compresses, pushes and molds your body into its shape. It could make it harder to eat.   I personally do not feel that there is anything wrong with a corset. I do not waist train but if I wanted a certain look under or over a garment, I would wear one. Is the corset the problem? NO. It's the mindset. The problem lies more with those who are overly obsessive and their habits become physically and mentally destructive. You have to know where to draw the line. Unless, you are doing it for sport or to beat the world record. 

2.  How soon should I see results if I use my waist trainer?

Everyone is different. There is not really an average time where you can see results. Results can vary depending on your body size, shape and other factors.. Some may see measurable results in 1 week while others may not see anything changing in a months time.  Some experience a bulge on either end of the corset, while others smooth out pretty evenly.  Factors that come into play are genetics, length of time you wear your corset each day, days per week, are you incorporating healthier habits etc.  As with most things in life, there is a commitment involved. Even after you reach your goal, there is the necessity to do maintenance waist training to keep your new shape and curves. Sound familiar?? Of course, my feelings are that maintaining a proper diet and exercise regime will most likely help you to get better results.

3.  Does it shift internal organs?

 I've seen the crazy pics and it has been confirmed through x-rays that some types of waist training can shift organs. Now to what degree, I'm not sure. Every one is different  However, as  women, our organs do shift during pregnancy. Then after childbirth, things start to go back where they are supposed to be. So while shifting organs sounds crazy, it is one of those things that pregnant women go through. I can attest to that. I carried 3 children and pressure on organs and them being moved out of place is the reason why you have so much heartburn, or can't breathe or have to go pee so much.  Interestingly enough, after the birth of my twins in 2007, the Dr. sent me home with some sort of waist cincher. The compression definitely helped me feel more stable and kept my posture straight as my uterus shrank and everything else moved back into place. I've also read cases though where waist training can also lead to muscle atrophy and fatigue due to the muscles constantly being supported. So there is little strength when unsupported by the corset. (My back hurts thinking about it.)

I found a great article and video which shows a recent study done on organs and digestion. This girl's site is pretty informative.   Click here to view the video.

Of course there is a genuine excitement when trying any new product and there are tons of different kinds of waist trainers out there to choose from. From plastic boned waist cinchers to steel boned corsets and girdles to body briefers. Some tight-lace for fashion or special events and others wear their steel boned corsets for up to 23 hours a day for a more permanent change. Finding the corset and regime for you really depends on your individual goal. Even though I battle with my waistline, I'm not convinced enough to jump on  and commit to a waist training regime. 

One post cannot cover everything. There is so much more to learn about corsets and the effects of long term use on the female and male body. I would recommend taking the time to learn more about them before making a purchase. As with everything, 

MODERATION is KEY!

**I am not an expert on waist training. Neither do I  promote or sell waist trainers. The above post was written for informational purposes only and to address the questions of my customers. This post is purely my opinion and is not intended to replace the advice of a medical physician. If you are looking into waist training, talk to your doctor.**

I'm Not a Runner But....

I don't consider myself a runner. It's not really my thing. But, I do enjoy getting out the house and getting out on the lakefront. I'm pretty sure that's what I like most. I kinda like running through the park but there are so many distractions and people to distract, lol. I prefer the lakefront for the calmness and because for that hour or two I feel alone with just my thoughts and my music. 

I DO like organized races. I set a goal this spring to run The Biggest Loser half marathon in August. It was here in Chicago, along the lakefront.  It was a phenomenal experience on several levels for me. However, what I enjoyed seeing most was the fight. Some people could barely walk but they were out there to do 13 miles of it. I saw couples and families and best friends supporting each other and I was really inspired by that. It's a great feeling to see people of all ages, sizes and abilities out there. They set a goal and they are out to get it done. I love to see that kind of passion and determination. Its contagious. 

I'm not a runner but I've decided to sign up for one more race. Its coming up in about 5 weeks. Its the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k. I'm not too sure if the course is lakefront, so that will be different experience for me. I'm sure it will be scenic though and will get me inspired to get back out running for the next month.  I haven't been out to intentionally run in about 6 weeks but I will start back running 2 times a week, starting Oct 6th. This is in addition to my current Focus T25 and soon to be 21 Day Fix workout schedule.  

I signed up to do the 15k. Compared to that half marathon (13 miles) in the August heat, 9 miles is definitely doable. Its still a challenge but I absolutely know I can finish it strong.  This time possibly, I will start timing myself just for fun and to watch my progress throughout the month.  The weather should be cool but pleasant which for me seems to be better weather to train in. But what do I know? I have to find a runner to ask.