We’re always big advocates of working out. But that doesn’t mean we’re oblivious to some of the issues. We don’t always have time to hit the gym and those articles that tell us to “work out over lunch” make us laugh. Why? Because we sweat.

Sweating is exercising’s dirty little secret. It’s especially a pain for those of us who seem to sweat more than the average person. But before you give up and accept excess sweat as a part of your life, there are some things you can do to reduce your sweat.

First, let’s dive into this topic.

Types of Sweat

Before you can reduce sweat, you have to understand it. There are three types of sweat.

• Body Sweat: Body sweat is the odorless type that pours off you during a workout or when you’re standing out in the sun. It’s especially noticeable on your forehead and spine.
• Palm & Feet Sweat: There’s also perspiration on the palms and soles of your feet. This sweat helps you increase your adherence and grip.
• Armpit & Genital Sweat: This last type of sweat is the worst. It’s what causes body odor, mainly due to bacteria.

The Purpose of Sweat

Sweating doesn’t mean you’re out of shape. Sweating happens when your body starts to heat up either externally from high temperatures or internally from muscle exertion. The truth of the matter is that the more you train your body and the more time you spend in the heat, the more efficient you become at sweating. That means that you’ll actually start to sweat more and all over your body.

That’s why if you’ve ever watched a basketball game or another sport, you’ll notice that the highly-trained athletes are covered in sweat. It’s because their body is better able to respond to the demands of heat and exercise and, ultimately stay cooler.

The unfortunate fact is that how much you sweat is determined when you are just a kid, around age two. Whether you sweat buckets or stay as fresh as a daisy on hot days is determined by your genetics, though body composition does play a role as well. It’s really determined by how active you are as a toddler. If you were a super-active toddler who ran around a lot, you probably developed a greater sweating ability. If you were not very active, you’ll probably never be able to sweat like you need.

Reduce Sweat

So, how can you reduce the amount you sweat?

First, remember that sweating is good for you. It helps your body regulate its temperature so that you can work out harder or stay in the sun longer. However, if you’re tired of the sweat, there are a few things you can do.

• Antiperspirant: Antiperspirants that are high in aluminum-based compounds can help clog your sweat glands. Just be careful, it could increase your risk of breast cancer.
• Botox: You can inject Botox into your armpits to block the secretion of the chemical that turns on your sweat glands.
• Food: Did you know that you can sweat out what you eat? If you’re worried about sweat that smells, eat healthy foods and enjoy strong scents like curry.
• Cold Showers: Anything that lowers your body temperature can help you stop sweating, so jump into a cold shower.
• Avoid Caffeine: Instead of drinking a cup of coffee, stick with tea. Coffee can activate sweat glands.

Yours in fitness,
Your Tea