Waist Trainer is a form-fitting, shapewear garment designed to mold the midsection and eliminate “muffin top” or sagging belly flesh. It’s often made of latex and can be worn over clothing to add a tighter, more defined hourglass figure or as an undergarment during workouts. Waist cinchers are most commonly used as an exercise accessory to make the body look more toned, and they’re also ideal for a quick slimming effect that will help you slip into a dress or outfit for a special occasion.
From Trend to Tradition: The Cultural Impact of Waist Training
But while waist trainers may be effective in a pinch, long-term use is not recommended. The compression created by the tight fit causes muscles to adapt and adjust to the snug shape, and this can lead to muscle atrophy. It can also restrict lung capacity and cause fluid buildup in the lungs.
Additionally, the squeezing of skin and fat can shift internal organs out of their natural positions, which puts pressure on the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is responsible for keeping the bladder, uterus and rectum in place and preventing prolapse, which is when the organs descend below the abdominal cavity. Continued wearing of a waist trainer can stretch and weaken the muscles, potentially causing urinary incontinence or a hernia.
Wearing a waist trainer can also cause posture issues by squeezing the abdomen and pulling at the back. This can cause you to hunch over or slump while sitting, which can eventually lead to back pain and muscle weakness. It’s better to focus on building a strong core through exercises like Pilates, yoga or working with a physical therapist to help rebuild core muscles that have been stretched or thinned due to pregnancy.