Dicey situations: showing up unprepared for an Algebra exam [with only a pen in your backpack]; measuring a three-point shot [your weakest skill] with two seconds left on the clock; wearing thick cotton clothes to practice [one of the longest of the season].
Don’t be that guy. Be primed and ready to roll. Yes, that even includes knowing what to wear to practice so you can avoid skin chaffing and focus on what really matters—improving your performance and helping your team.
This often painful condition occurs when skin rubs against skin or clothes repeatedly. The friction causes tiny breaks on the skin’s surface, leading to irritation, soreness and an unsightly red rash. It typically occurs in hot spots like the inner thighs, waistband, armpits and feet.
Dodge discomfort from chaffing with these tips from Livestrong.com:
Can Cotton
Avoid wearing loose cotton clothes during workouts. Unlike moisture-wicking fabrics [click here to read about sweat-wicking apparel], cotton is rough on skin and doesn’t absorb sweat well.
Lubricate
Prevent or alleviate pain by applying a lubricant/balm [e.g., Vaseline or BodyGlide] to the hotspots. Apply pre-workout to minimize chaffing.
Hydrate
When salt from sweat crystallizes, it can irritate skin, contributing to chafing. Drink water pre-, during and post-practice to dilute some of the salt.
Apply Powder
Pre-workout, rub baby power, cornstarch or talcum powder on the hotspots; it helps absorb sweat so your skin stays dry.
Sources:  nih.gov, livestrong.com
Photo:  BodyGlide