Are these pants see through?

As a newcomer to the group fitness community, I’ve discovered many challenging, unique, full body workouts. I’ve also discovered that most classes engage all different types of movements and positions from squats to burpees to down dog, there’s a move in nearly every class where your pants are going to be stretched to their limits of opacity.

To be fair, manufacturers and clothes designers probably don’t go around intentionally making pants or shorts see through if stretched in the wrong directions or because my butt is...sizable. As well-intentioned as that fact is, it is also a fact that this does happen and it happens way too often not to check your bum out before you go work out.

My rule of thumb: Just ask. If you’re too modest to ask someone in the store if your downstairs is visible, always take a buddy with you or take a butt-selfie and do the “see through pant test.” Keep your legs just wider than hips distance apart, bend forward, focus on pushing your bum as far back as possible, creating the widest stretch you will see across the widest part. Now this is where your friend comes in, so make sure they’re a true friend. Honesty is key. “Can you see my downstairs?” if the answer is “yes” “eh”, “kind of” or “maybe”, DO NOT BUY THOSE BOTTOMS (unless you have other intentions than fitness).

PROTIP: Have your friend take a flash photograph of your butt. The light from the flash will reflect off of your skin more so than it does on the pants and show you a true level of their transparency.

When you are working out, you are thinking about giving it your all - thirty more seconds - when the next water break is - maybe even quitting - and then pushing through it. You are not thinking, “Gee, I wonder if everyone knows that I didn't wear any underwear today when I am in downward dog.” And if you are thinking that, you are not getting the workout you were hoping for, because, I guarantee you’re going to be modifying that position to the point where it is no longer effective.

DO NOT SACRIFICE FORM OVER FUNCTION!

I find it a little strange how taboo this topic is. Nobody wants to talk about it. Ignorance is not bliss on this one my friends... Everyone notices the person with see through pants. It is uncomfortable. For some unknown reason, NOBODY, tells the person with see through pants what’s up with their downstairs. At least nobody has ever told me. We tend to pretend not to notice because it’s uncomfortable. HELLO?! Imagine how much MORE uncomfortable it is for the person wearing their windex washed pants time and time again to class!

I’ve been THAT girl. The one with the see through pants, I unknowingly shared both Victorias’ and my secret with way too many people at a single studio for over a month. My only “saving Grace” moment was when I was bent over to re-tie my shoelaces. When I looked back I was greeted with my pink undies in full view. Upon closer inspection and third party validation, I, to my total horror and dismay, realized everyone could see a lot more than just my undies.

I have bought new pants since then. I went to a gym and flashed everyone regularly and no one said anything - Seriously world? I almost feel worse for everyone that subjected themselves to that than I do for exposing myself. I get it though, no one likes having those uncomfortable talks. Having a nearly naked person in your workout classes is weird for everyone. However, If you notice someone with some transparency issues, don’t just gossip about it, discreetly mention it to them after class. If they aren’t too embarrassed in the moment, they will thank you later.

But most importantly, be proactive. Remember that your clothes will wear over time and get thinner. Spend a few seconds in front of a mirror with your head through your legs before your next workout.

Love,

Grace

P.S. I won't make you ever look at my butt like this again.

Grace B.

Founder of Sweat and Sweets

Grace is a Chicago area native who grew up on the beautiful north shores of Lake Michigan. Walking before she learned to crawl, her path was always just that, hers. Even as a twin she developed her own individuality and personality that has been the driving force for her success.

From Chicago, Indiana, Iowa, New Hampshire, Hawaii, and now Charlotte, Grace’s journey has taken her many places. Swimming the 100m, 200m backstroke and butterfly, she competed on division-one swim teams throughout her collegiate career.

Grace continued her fitness career as a triathlete, marathon, and half-marathoner with a quest to complete a half marathon in every state before she turns 30. Trained in Olympic style lifting, she has always tried to develop a diverse fitness skill set.

After working as a project manager for 3 years, Grace traded in her hardhat and business clothes for sweatbands and Nikes when she moved to Charlotte. Grace made it her goal to share her love for adventure, health and fitness to help people live happier lives. New to Charlotte, this journey will be as new for her as it will be for you sharing all of the Sweat and Sweets.