While gym memberships spike and exercise routines ramp up at the start of every year, with nearly one in five UK adults now gym members in a notable increase from last year1, new national research2 from Sudocrem® has revealed an overlooked issue that could be sabotaging our fitness resolutions.

According to the research, 59% of Brits say skin irritation or chafing has taken the enjoyment out of exercise or left them feeling less motivated to stay active, highlighting how discomfort can take the shine off even the best intentions.

And for many, the impact goes far beyond a lack of motivation. Fitness goals are being derailed altogether, with 60% of Brits admitting to cutting back on exercise or stopping entirely as a result. Of those affected, 40% say chafing has caused them to avoid certain workouts like running or gym classes, while 17% admit they now exercise less frequently due to skin irritation.

The study also reveals where friction hits hardest for those trying to stay active. Inner thighs (63%) emerged as the most common chafing hotspot among Brits hitting the gym, closely followed by the chest (18%) and feet (16%). The top five most affected areas are:

Inner thighs (63%)
Chest or nipples (18%)
Feet (16%)
Underarms (13%)
Waist or stomach area (8%)

For many, the irritation comes as an unwelcome surprise. 30% say they were caught off guard by where skin irritation developed on the body, suggesting that chafing isn’t always confined to the areas people expect or prepare for.

The hidden impact of chafing is also changing how the nation approaches exercise. The research found that almost half (49%) have changed what they wear to work out, 30% have avoided certain types of exercise, and 7% have stopped exercising in public due to concerns about skin irritation.

Chafing doesn’t just affect routines – it disrupts workouts in real time. When irritation strikes mid-exercise, a third (32%) say they shorten their workout, 29% modify their movements, and a further 32% push through but feel distracted or uncomfortable.

Shockingly, only 6% say they’re able to continue exercising as normal when irritation strikes, highlighting just how much skin irritation can take a toll on fitness goals.

Despite this, few people take steps to manage discomfort. The research found that 40% think to apply a product to help ease irritation, such as a barrier cream or plasters, meaning many people simply put up with the problem as it gets in the way of staying active.

Sudocrem® spokesperson, Amira Seffar said: “Many people use the start of a new year as an opportunity to exercise more and build healthier habits, but discomfort can quickly knock their confidence and consistency.

“Skin irritation and chafing are common when keeping active but are rarely spoken about. Our research reveals just how much it can affect people’s exercise routines and motivation to stay fit. No one should feel held back from staying active because of something that’s easily managed.

“Having something on hand that helps to soothe irritated skin can make a real difference to staying comfortable and confident when working out. Thankfully, Sudocrem® Antiseptic Healing Cream can be used to treat surface wounds or burns caused by chafing, containing a mild local anaesthetic to help alleviate discomfort associated with friction.

“And for those exercising on the go, My Little Sudocrem® is a handy, portable option that helps to soothe the skin and reduce the appearance of redness. Small enough to pop into a gym bag or pocket, it’s ideal for keeping skin feeling comfortable and calm when you’re out and about. It can also be used as a protective barrier to help to protect the skin from irritation occurring in the first place, so you don’t need to wait for discomfort to strike.”