What Is The Difference Between a Waist Trainer And a Corset?

The advancement of technology and rise in demand has now lead to a number of waist trainer designs that vary in form, material, uses, and more. This is to cater to the many different preferences the waist training market holds, and it probably will not stop here.

What Is The Difference Between a Waist Trainer And a Corset?

Today we are setting our focus on what we consider to be the two major types: waist trainers in general and corsets. To understand the difference between the two, we have to touch on a little bit of history.

How did waist training begin?

These garments date all the way back to the 1500’s simply because the queen’s consort of France at the time had mandated it. Catherine de’ Medici banned entry of thick waists at court and losing weight required too much time to achieve, so waist training then rose to popularity as an instant solution and rapidly became a part of a woman’s daily attire.

To achieve this, women (and sometimes even men) would tightly bind their waistlines under their clothing in an attempt to appear more slender than they actually are. The material used was embedded with steel bones in order to keep the hourglass figure secured throughout the day.

They were also usually reinforced with laces at the back to constrict the garment as far as it could go. The more frequently the body had to adapt to its new environment, the easier it was to tighten and constrict as weeks passed.

Do the early corsets still exist today?

While there have been necessary adjustments and safety protocols applied, today’s classic corset is actually patterned after the original. Modern materials used are much more breathable, elastic, and versatile so that you can wear one without disrupting your usual hectic day.

It is also embedded with steel bones, though these are made more flexible and durable. Not only will you be able to retain the hourglass figure, you will also be able to comfortably move about with little to no restrictions.

How is it different from other waist trainers?

The classic corset’s difference from all the rest are the flexible foundations embedded within the garment. This makes it more ideal for aesthetic purposes and special occasions, rather than casual or athletic activities. We highly discourage performing exercises in a boned corset as this can heighten risk of injury or warping your garment.

Other compression bands are better suited for those incorporating workout sessions into their waist training routine as they are made more for motion and pliability.

Which one is better?

Each has an advantage over the other, without one necessarily ranking better. It all depends on the type of waist training routine you are planning and what is best suited for your personal situation. In fact, we recommend alternating between 2-3 kinds!

Waist trainers we recommend

The Everyday Waist Trainer – Best for daily use

The Gym Compression Band – Best for workouts

The Classic Corset – Best for special occasions

 

 

Author Bio

Hannah - Manager at Hourglass 

Hannah is a certified personal trainer based in Australia. Since 2017 she has inspired women across the nation through honest & educational content. Her dietary and fitness expertise are trusted across the fitness community.