Running provides an intense aerobic workout that can help you achieve the American Heart Association goal of getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Unfortunately, meeting this goal can become difficult or uncomfortable if you regularly experience problems with itching on your legs as you run. Before you can stop the itching, you must figure out the possible cause of the discomfort.
Step 1
Choose workout pants made from cotton or other natural breathable materials instead of wool or synthetic fabrics. Certain fabrics can be scratchy as well as can reduce the amount of airflow through the material resulting in irritation. This irritation can activate the release of histamine in your legs, resulting in itching.
Step 2
Moisturize your legs on a daily basis to prevent dry skin. Dry air can cause the moisture in your skin to evaporate at a faster rate than your body can replace it. This can result in dry skin, which can also cause irritation and itching, especially as your workout clothes rub up against your legs. Choose moisturizers that are also hypoallergenic to further prevent problems with itching that can occur due to an allergic reaction to the ingredients in the product.
Step 3
Change the detergent, fabric softener or dryer sheets you use to wash and dry your workout clothes. Certain people are more sensitive to the ingredients in these products. Look for detergents and fabric softeners that are hypoallergenic, and consider using fragrance free dryer sheets.
Step 4
Change your running route to avoid underbrush. Itching can occur due to contact with basic allergens like weeds or even grass, or severe itching can occur due to exposure to poisonous plants such as poison oak or ivy.
Step 5
See your doctor about possible underlying health conditions. In rare cases, your leg itching may be associated with exercise-induced urticaria. This condition occurs in reaction to the change in temperature experienced during exercise or even by the foods you eat before you exercise. Exercise urticaria and can be treated through watching what you eat before you run or through the use of antihistamines.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizer
- Hypoallergenic detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets
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