Editor's Corner: Thigh Problems

A few years ago, I was chatting with a group of women runners when one relayed a funny story about how she started running. She was heading out to dinner with friends wearing a brand-new pair of corduroy pants. While walking to the restaurant, she noticed that every time she took a step, her pants made a zipping sound. “That’s when I knew I had to get in shape!” she laughed.

That happens to me every day, I thought. In fact, that’s why I don’t wear corduroys. I kept quiet at the time, but what I should have said was:

My thighs rub together, and I don’t care who knows it!

These thighs have carried me through marathons and hiked mountains, and I love them for it. The only time they bother me is during the summer months. “Why?” you bow-legged lasses may wonder. In a word: chafing.

Warm weather means serious sweating, which increases the chafing danger big time. If you, too, suffer from this affliction, here are a few tricks I’ve found to ease the pain. From my thighs to your ears. . .:)

1. Anti-Chafing Balm

This stuff really works wonders. Apply a thick layer (or two) 10 minutes before you head out the door.

2. Deodorant

It might sound crazy, but solid stick deodorant works almost as well as anti-chafing balms. Sometimes I swipe an extra layer on hot spots, or I’ll use it in a pinch when I don’t have any balm on hand.

3. Compression Shorts

Tight shorts protect your thighs from each another while minimizing the amount of fabric that causes friction. I’ll often wear these solo, but you can also use them as runderwear and top the compression shorts with a looser pair.

A typical summer running outfit.

4. Neosporin

If the damage has already been done, apply this post-(stinging) shower. On top of its healing powers, the gel provides an extra layer of protection on sensitive skin so the chafing cycle won’t continue after you get dressed.

I want to know, are you a thigh chafer too? If so, what’s your anti-chafing secret? Let me know here or on Twitter @JessieSebor.