Sweating while running is normal and even essential for the body to function properly. However, some people find that they sweat much more than others when running!

This excessive sweating while running can become bothersome, cause irritation, impair performance and leave lingering odors on sportswear.

Understanding why we sweat, what the consequences are and how to remedy them allows us to run more comfortably and for longer.

The benefits of sweating when running

Sweating is primarily a natural thermoregulatory mechanism. During exercise, such as running, the body produces heat. To maintain a stable internal temperature, the body secretes sweat, which evaporates to cool the skin and prevent overheating.

Without this function, the body would quickly risk heatstroke. Sweating while running is therefore a positive sign: it means that the body is adapting to the effort and protecting itself.

Why do some people sweat more than others?

There are huge variations from one individual to another… Genetics, gender, age, weight, training level and even environment play a role in sweat secretion: Two runners subjected to the same intensity can have very different sweating.

People who are overweight or less accustomed to exertion tend to sweat more because their bodies have to dissipate more heat. Humidity and temperature also strongly influence the amount of sweat. Finally, some suffer from hyperhidrosis , a condition that causes excessive sweating while running and in other everyday situations.

What are the consequences of excessive sweating?

While sweating is beneficial, excessive sweating can be problematic. Significant loss of water and mineral salts leads to dehydration and diminishes performance. Maceration promotes irritation, blisters, and sometimes fungal infections.

Sweaty clothes become heavy and uncomfortable. Finally, the lingering odor that permeates technical textiles is often a source of social embarrassment. That's why it's essential to adopt good practices when you're prone to excessive sweating while running.

How to reduce sweating during a run?

There are several solutions to help you cope with this discomfort. The first step is to stay well hydrated before, during, and after exercise to compensate for water and electrolyte losses. Exercise-specific drinks help maintain fluid and mineral balance.

Clothing choices also play a key role. It's advisable to avoid cotton , which retains moisture and promotes maceration. Breathable technical fibers or merino wool wick away perspiration and dry quickly, keeping the skin drier.

Wearing suitable socks, seamless at the toes and with good support, limits friction and blisters despite sweat.

Otherwise, some simple habits reduce excessive sweating while running:

run at cooler hours,
choose shaded paths,
reduce the intensity in high heat
and gradually get used to the effort to improve thermal regulation.

Photo: Trail des Cimes

How to remove sweat odor from sportswear?

Technical textiles easily retain odors. To eliminate them, it's best to rinse or wash your clothes quickly after exercise, rather than leaving them in a bag to dry.

A pre-wash in cold water with a little baking soda or white vinegar added effectively neutralizes odors before washing. Detergents specifically designed for sportswear, often enriched with antibacterial agents, also help restore freshness to your fabrics.

Excessive sweating: when should you see a doctor?

Sweating while running is normal, but excessive sweating while running can reflect a larger imbalance.

If sweating is disproportionate to the exertion, if it also affects rest or other daily activities, or if it has a real impact on social life, it is useful to consult a health professional.

In short, sweating while running is an essential natural process. But when it becomes excessive, it can affect comfort, performance, and hygiene. By understanding its role, adapting your equipment and habits, and using specific products if necessary, every runner can limit the discomfort associated with excessive sweating while running.