Kim Kardashian (and all the various “K” sisters) have managed to make waist-training corsets quite a craze. Everyone seems to think these Victorian throwback girdles (read: medieval torture devices) are the key to teeny waists. But do they actually work? Does slipping one on mean your waist will actually get (and stay) “trained”? Hold your horses and don’t order one until you’ve read this piece which explores the pros and cons of this Kardashian-approved phenomenon.
The real deal
Kiran Krishnakumar, fitness trainer, Mumbai, explains, “There is a reason why waist trainers have been a rage. They definitely help, at least to people who want to look slim instantly for a particular occasion. However, from a fitness point of view, just clutching your waist, and not focusing on your entire well-being doesn’t make sense. Besides, if you have a sensitive skin, the corsets may do more harm than good.”
Translation: Yes, Kim and Khloe’s curvaceous bodies and tiny waistlines are desirable but putting your body through excruciating discomfort probably isn’t.
The Pros
It is believed that when you wear the corset, it reduces your regular appetite and suppresses cravings. Reema Sarin, fitness expert, Delhi, adds, “Not only do you get an instantly-curvaceous waistline, but you also tend to eat less so as to not feel stuffy. Its definite an appetite reducer which helps curb over-eating.”
Translation: Ice-cream and you will stop being BFF.
Cons
The corset is an uncomfortable piece of clothing, especially if you are planning to wear it for a long time, like for work or picnics. “It has absolutely no health benefits as such and is just a cosmetic device that tucks your tummy in,” clarifies Reema.
But Kiran links it to other major issues like mental wellbeing and states, “Waist-training is known to affect the mind, as it serves as a continuous reminder that you haven’t yet reached your ideal measurements. It can also cause a dislocation of internal organs, displacing them due to all the pressure it puts, alongside giving backaches and reducing the flexibility of the muscles.”
Due to material and allergy concerns, there is now a more advanced latex corset on the market, but that doesn’t solve the problem either. “Even a good quality, allergy-free material would not help with the red marks and rashes you may get after wearing the corset. Also, keep an eye out for the acid-reflexes or heartburn since the corset puts needless pressure on the internal organs around the abdomen,” he adds.
Translation: Step away from the corset, girl.
Long-term goals
Wearing a waist-training corset has no long-term effects. Shweta Tejekar, Dietician, Currae Gynaec, IVF, Birthing Hospital, Thane, Mumbai says, “Waist-trainers are a short cut to the goal of fat reduction. They work like vibrators that help improve blood circulation and mobilise extra fats that are passed out in the form of urine or waste. But it is no match for a healthy exercise and diet routine.”
Translation: Sorry, but you’re going to have to work out anyway.
