Are Waist Trainers Safe?

You've most likely seen or heard of waist trainers before. As Spoon University informs us, the Kardashians and other famous names are big fans of endorsing this modern-day girdle. But what are we looking to accomplish by wearing a band around our waists? According to Medical News Daily, a waist trainer is meant to pull a person's middle section in as tight as possible, thus providing the image of a more hourglass shape. While an hourglass figure is a goal for many, we can't help but wonder, are waist trainers safe?

Advocates of this snug-fitting elastic compression band believe that they aid in weight loss and help permanently slim the midsection, but others remain skeptical. Health states that any weight loss caused by waist trainers is temporary, and is likely water weight from sweating more around your midsection. Any permanent shrinking of your stomach is explained because you are less likely to overindulge in food if you are constantly wearing a constricting band around your waist.

Before we scare you away from your Spanx, it's important not to confuse a waist trainer with your shapewear. The former is meant to be worn much tighter and regularly, shares Health, while shapewear is not. 

And despite waist trainers giving you an instantly slimmer appearance, exercise and healthy eating should still be prioritized. Fitness coach Nicolle Harwood-Nash of The Workout Digest shares her concern that waist trainers can are being used as an alternative to a healthy diet. She tells Byrdie that some women report "feeling full all the time" when they wear waist trainers, and, "In a way, you're committing to a fake form of diet. Obviously, this isn't a good alternative to eating a healthy diet," she says.

It is also worth noting that while waist trainers may feel like they are bringing your abs together, they can actually weaken your abdominal muscles. Casey Palazzo, Certified Lagree Instructor, at The Studio (MDR) explains to Byrdie, "Constricting air flow and compressing your midsection can prevent your abdominal muscles from engaging in core movements," she says. "Over time, you'll actually be losing strength and definition." Other serious negatives to consider before wearing a waist trainer stated by Health are possible nerve damage, gastrointestinal issues, and organ damage.