Could Exercising Without Clothes Improve Performance?

The ancient Greeks embraced nudity for its practicality and comfort, often wearing garments that could be easily removed. They discovered that athletic training without clothes offered numerous advantages. Historical records also indicate that students attended lectures completely unclothed. This practice was so widespread that it became a defining feature of the Olympic Games.

The origins of the Olympics trace back to 1100 B.C.E., with records from the seventh century B.C.E. revealing Spartans competing nude. Their success in competitions while unclothed led others to adopt the same approach. Nudity soon became an integral part of the Olympic tradition, continuing until the games were banned by Emperor Theodosius in 393 C.E. due to their association with polytheistic beliefs.

After a 1,500-year hiatus, the Olympic Games returned in 1896, but nudity was no longer acceptable. From the Olympics to professional baseball, competing without clothes is no longer standard. But what if it were? Could we be overlooking potential advantages by wearing clothing during exercise or sports?

Modern athletic wear is highly specialized for each sport. Golf attire has evolved from polyester to advanced lightweight fabrics. Crossfit participants use footwear designed specifically for their needs. Runners opt for moisture-wicking shorts with integrated liners. Shirts with antibacterial properties are now a staple in athletic apparel.

"Advancements in technology have driven the industry to create products tailored for specific activities—whether it's working out, running, cycling, or anything else," said Bjorn Bengtsson, a fashion marketing professor at Parsons School of Design in New York, in a January 2017 interview with Men's Health. "It's no longer just about hitting the gym."

Given the widespread popularity of workout attire, whether for exercising or casual 'athleisure' wear, the idea of going without clothing altogether deserves a closer look, doesn't it?

Better to Bare It All?

Do our clothes cause us to overheat or restrict our movements? Or maybe they conceal the very thing we aim to enhance through exercise: our bodies. Would it be more beneficial to have a clearer view of our muscles while working out?

Robert Herbst, a personal trainer, coach, and professional powerlifter, firmly believes so. Residing in New York, Herbst has earned 18 World Championships, 33 National Championships, and a place in the AAU Strength Sports Hall of Fame.

"Wearing clothes can negatively impact performance if they cause overheating, restrict movement due to tightness, impede blood circulation, or become a hindrance if too loose," he explains.

Herbst points out that baggy pants, for instance, are unsuitable for deadlifting as the bar rubbing against the legs creates friction, slowing the lift and increasing difficulty.

"For maintaining healthy skin, it's essential to avoid clothing that causes chafing, irritation, or traps sweat, which can lead to fungal or bacterial growth," he adds.

While clothing can limit movement, exercising without it can enhance performance. Going nude during workouts ensures maximum flexibility and range of motion for stretches and exercises.

"Even more beneficial," Kat Setzer, a personal trainer from Boston, explained to WBUR Radio in 2014, "is that removing the slimming panels from high-end workout gear forces your muscles to engage more, helping stabilize your spine and hips. Many people are aware that exercising barefoot enhances balance, as your feet can better connect with the ground without the interference of cushioned shoes. Similarly, skipping workout attire allows individuals to better understand their body alignment during exercises, potentially leading to greater workout benefits."

The Protection of Pants and Shirts

However, some experts highlight the drawbacks of hitting the gym without proper attire.

"Forget about going naked," advises Alex Roher, a physician from San Diego. "The idea that exercising without clothes is beneficial is a myth. It can actually lead to yeast and bacterial infections since there’s nothing to absorb sweat. Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking clothing is essential. They help draw moisture away from your skin."

While weightlifting champion Herbst advocates for the advantages of nude exercise, he also recognizes the value of wearing appropriate clothing. Striking the right balance is key for every athlete.

"Clothing should be chosen wisely to ensure comfort and effectiveness during exercise," Herbst explains. "Depending on the type of clothing and activity, it can either enhance or hinder performance. For instance, clothing can protect against weather conditions like heat, cold, or rain, helping regulate body temperature by wicking sweat or keeping muscles warm. It can also improve performance through compression or added support."

Additionally, most gyms require closed-toe shoes to prevent injuries, and clothing acts as a barrier between users. Following reports of infections like MRSA spreading in gyms, minimizing direct contact with others' sweat is crucial.

If you want the advantages of both approaches, you can wear clothes at the gym or yoga studio and exercise nude at home. Just be cautious with equipment like javelins.