We all love working out — the sense of accomplishment, the feeling of burning up those calories, and the pride of busting through a good ol’ sweat session. But the side effects that can come from all that sweat — namely, the odor— we could probably do without. Because after all, hittin’ those goals becomes a little less satisfying when our partners have to hold their breath while congratulating us with a, “great job honey (cough cough), no seriously, you look great (short gasp of air), keep up the good…(face beginning to turn purple) work.”

So for your benefit, and let’s be honest, the benefit of those around you, we’re gonna run through how to reduce body odor and make your sweat smell better with some simple tips. Trust us, do these and your husband, wife, kids, gym bud, mailman, doctor, accountant, and tailor (especially your tailor) will thank you. 

Cleaner Eating, Less Excreting

The main cause of sweat odor comes from a buildup of bacteria. However, before we jump into those microscopic representatives-of-reek, let’s look at a simpler source. Certain foods we eat contain enzymes that tend to stink up our pores. So if you plan on working out in the next 12 hours or so, try to avoid eating garlic, onions, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, cumin, curry, and hot peppers. I know, we love indian food too, but the Aloo Gobi is just going to have to wait. 

Buh-Bye, Bacteria

Since bacteria is the major culprit behind those cartoony wavy lines that emanate off of us (at least it feels like that), you’ll want to target them first. So though I know it seems like a waste of time to rinse off before your workout, do it because if you don’t, when that body bacteria mingles with that clean sweat, well… it stinks! So, take a 2-minute rinse pre-workout. It’s worth it. And pick up a good strong antibacterial body wash, and make sure to do some extra scrubbing in those trouble spots (you know the ones we’re talking about). A really powerful, all natural ingredient that gets the job done is tea tree oil. No doubt you’ve seen this wonder-stuff used in all sorts of products, but if you get the pure essential oil, you can mix a few drops in your body lotion, or even dilute it and spray it over your gym equipment. 

Wicky-Wicky What?

The ever-expanding fitness industry is always on the front lines of innovation, and stymieing stink is no different. You’ll want to snag some workout clothes made with special sweat-wicking fabrics. This workout gear draws the sweat from your body and absorbs it, meaning less sweat lingering on the skin, less bacteria, and less B.O. We know it can be hard to part with those 7th grade gym shorts that’ve been hanging on for dear life, but come on, time to move on! 

Pony Up

For those of us with long, flowing locks, bacteria just loves to hide underneath them. Little moist crevices at the nape of your neck, behind your ears, between your curls and your shoulders — these are basically the bahamas for bacteria. So don’t give them that chance. Put your hair up in a ponytail, a bun, a tight braid, anything to get it away from contacting your skin, and bacteria’s little vacation will be put on hiatus. Sorry, little guys. 

Break the Smell Cycle

Now, obviously you’ll want to wash your clothes after every workout. But getting them truly clean goes a little further than just using a hot cycle. Get yourself some sporty laundry detergent that’s been specially designed to eliminate the majority of bacteria. And if you’re still finding the stink, soak your gear in vinegar and baking soda before you wash them. Ah, Arm & Hammer, is there anything you can’t do?

Listen to the Science

Ok, you’ve tried all of those techniques and remedies, and you’re still reeking to high heaven – it might be time to see a doctor. Hormonal fluctuations, thyroid issues, metabolic disorders, liver and kidney issues could all be possible explanations for your continued body odor. As it happens, bad B.O. might be just the beacon you need towards getting yourself checked out for a medical condition. How’s that for a silver lining!  

We hope we’ve given you some insight into how to reduce body odor while working out; we hope your aromas will be intoxicating and not infuriating; and we hope you can sweat it up without scarring your partner for life. Now you need something to sweat to, and we’ve got just the thing! An All Access Pass from Studio SWEAT onDemand gives you everything you need to ring every inch outta ya: unlimited onDemand workouts, a huge variety of classes, passionate trainers, plus a worldwide community of members pushing you to your best. Sign up for our 7-Day Free Trial, and you can start working out, like, right now. 

Happy sweating!