Have questions about waist training? We have answers! If you're new to waist training, you probably have a lot of questions about what to do, how to do it, and if and how it all works. We thought it would be helpful to compile a list of FAQs to help you start out your waist training journey.

Let's look at some of the most common questions that customers ask our shapewear stylists about these garments. You may be surprised by some of the answers!

1. Do waist trainers work? Do they burn fat?

Waist trainers do work! The more you wear one, the more likely you are to see results. As for "burning fat," what waist trainers actually do is stimulate thermal activity in your core. This makes you sweat more with minimal effort, so you can maximize your workouts. Some wearers also find that they are better able to control portion size when they eat, since the compression creates the feeling of having "less room" in the stomach.

2. What size should I get? Do I want to size down in order to have the tightest fit?

Always stick the size chart for the product (see our size guide for how to take accurate measurements). When in between sizes, we actually recommend that you size up rather than down. A waist trainer that is too small will be extremely uncomfortable and will not give you the most flattering results.

3. What's the BEST one? Are workout waist trainers better?

Which one is the best really depends on your preference (here are our most popular). Workout waist trainers aren't necessarily "better," but they are designed to hold up during intense exercise, whereas everyday cinchers are designed more for the other activities that make up your day. 

4. How long do I need to wear one to see results? How soon will I see results?

Instantly! That's the beauty of waist trainers – you put them on and they immediately sculpt 1 to 4 inches from your waistline. If you're wondering about seeing results when you're not wearing the garment, that depends on a lot of factors, including changes in diet and exercise, your body type, genetics, how much you wear it daily, and how much weight you are trying to lose. Everyone is different! 

5. After I see results, do I have to keep wearing my waist trainer?

We recommend continuing to wear your waist trainer as long as you want to maintain your best results. 

6. Are they uncomfortable? Will I be able to breath? Will my organs get squished?

You might be a little uncomfortable at first, which is why we recommend gradually increasing the length that you wear one. But your body becomes accustomed to the garment surprisingly quickly. Generally the waist trainer breaks in after the first few hours of wear and most people find that it isn't uncomfortable. You absolutely should be able to breathe and you shouldn't be squishing any organs! (If you can't breathe, or you feel any pain, take off the garment immediately and consider getting another size.) 

7. Do they show underneath clothing? Do they roll up? Do they cause any bulging?

It depends what kind of clothing you wear and what kind of waist trainer you use. If you use an everyday waist trainer in a tone similar to the color of your skin, it should be invisible under must clothing. A high-quality waist trainer that is the right size should not roll up or cause bulging. 

8. Is latex better? Does the latex go against my skin? I'm allergic to latex, what are my options?

Most of our quality waist trainers are made with latex because it is effective at providing firm compression and is durable. Latex waist trainers are lined with cotton so the latex won't go against your skin. If you're sensitive to latex, try our True Shapers latex-free line.

9. Do I wear it under or over my clothing? Do I need to wash it? How and how often?

Waist trainers are designed to wear underneath clothing, although you don't have to keep them hidden. Several brands offer garments in bright, bold colors, so feel free to flaunt them at the gym and beyond. We do recommend washing after every couple of wears so that the material can contract. Hand wash in warm water using a mild shampoo or baby shampoo. Rinse but don't wring and lay flat or hang to dry.

10. How soon after having my baby should I start wearing one? It's been a year since I gave birth, is it too late?

You can start waist training within a few weeks postpartum—we recommend using a postpartum belly wrap at first until you're ready to transition to a regular waist trainer (see here for more tips). And it's never too late to start waist training! You don't even need to be postpartum to enjoy the benefits.

11. What else can I do to see the quickest results?

We can't stress enough how important it is to eat well and exercise. Not only will you be more likely to see results, but only a healthy lifestyle will create changes that last. 

12. Are they only for women?

While waist trainers are most popular with women, we do have a few options for men.

13. What's the difference between a waist trainer/cincher/corset?

"Waist trainer" is a general term that refers to any garment that you can use to slim your waist as part of a regimen. A cincher is a synthetic option usually made with latex and plastic boning (although as noted above, we also have latex-free options). Usually when people say "waist trainer" they are referring to one of these. A corset is a waist trainer that is typically constructed with steel boning and is a garment that is tightened with laces.