I got a surprise when my Camelbak Marathoner hydration pack gave me this stripe of chafing across my back during the Portland Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon -- despite having no problems with chafing in previous distance training. I was simply going faster and sweating more during the race, producing salt which led to the chafing.
Wherever skin meets skin meets sweat, you are liable to chafe. The salt crystals in your sweat form a sandpaper coating that rips the skin when it rubs against itself. Most of us experience this at the underarms, thighs, crotch, nipples, and under-breast areas. What can you do? Thankfully, there are lubricants that can prevent the problem if you put them on before you head out the door. I didn't think I needed any on my back, but obviously I will lubricate there next time!
Plain old petroleum jelly (Vaseline) works, but it is hard to wash out of clothing. I prefer SportShield/BlisterShield roll-on silicone lubricant. It works great and washes out easily without staining or gumming up your clothing permanently. Also, it is odorless, unlike some scented lubricant products. BodyGlide stick also works well.
Top Picks for Anti-Chafing Products
A reader asked if you can use these if you are using antiperspirant. Yes, you can. Apply your antiperspirant first and wait for it to dry. I putter around brushing my teeth, braiding my ponytail, etc. Then I apply the SportShield or BodyGlide right before I put on my shirt. No problem.
Photo © Wendy Bumgardner 2012Source: http://walking.about.com/b/2012/05/22/summer-chafing.htm
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