Shorts Story Long: Fitness Influencer Esther Nwachukwu Explains Her Pants-Free Gym Policy
In a world saturated with leggings and gym tights, one fitness enthusiast is breaking free from the mold, quite literally.
Actress, Esther Nwachukwu, aka Esther Sky, has said that she finds wearing underpants to the gym inconvenient and uncomfortable.
Esther Nwachukwu, a rising figure in the online fitness community, has sparked curiosity and conversation with her decidedly pants-free approach to working out.
While many opt for the traditional athletic pants or shorts, Nwachukwu is a steadfast advocate for ditching leg coverings altogether, and she’s not shy about explaining why.
“Yes, I’m the girl at the gym who’s almost always in just a top and underwear or very short shorts,” Nwachukwu stated in a recent interview that has gained significant traction across social media platforms.
“And no, it’s not for attention, though I do appreciate a good confidence boost. It’s actually for a multitude of reasons that make my workouts better, and honestly, just more enjoyable.”
In an interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “Why should I wear underpants to the gym? When I want to go to the gym, I don’t need to inconvenience myself by wearing underpants or bras, because they are too tight and I won’t be comfortable. To go to the gym, just wear your normal gym wear. If you wear those, how will your butt shake?
You need to put something out there for men to look at, for people to be attracted to you, as long as you’re not married.
Nwachukwu, who shares her fitness journey and workout routines with a growing online audience, outlined several key factors behind her unconventional gym attire choice. Chief among them is comfort and freedom of movement.
“Pants, even leggings sometimes, can feel restrictive,” she explained.
“Especially when you’re doing squats, lunges, or anything that requires a full range of motion in your legs. Feeling fabric clinging to you, getting bunched up, or even just the feeling of being constricted can be a real distraction and hinder your performance.”
She elaborated further, highlighting the issue of overheating. “Gyms, even air-conditioned ones, can get really hot, especially during intense workouts. Wearing layers, especially thicker athletic pants, just traps heat.
Working out in less clothing allows my body to breathe better, keeps me cooler, and ultimately helps me push harder for longer without feeling suffocated.”
Beyond the practical benefits, Nwachukwu also touched upon a more personal and empowering reason: body positivity and self-acceptance.
“For a long time, I was self-conscious about my body, like many people are,” she confessed.
“We’re constantly bombarded with images of ‘perfect’ gym bodies, and it’s easy to feel insecure. For me, choosing to wear less clothing in the gym is a way of saying, ‘This is my body, it’s strong, it’s capable, and I’m not going to hide it.’ It’s a form of body acceptance and a way to build confidence in myself.”
Nwachukwu acknowledges that her choice is not for everyone and understands that cultural norms and gym environments can vary.
However, she encourages people to consider what truly makes them feel comfortable and empowered in their fitness journey.
“Ultimately, what you wear to the gym is a personal choice,” she concluded in her video. “If pants make you feel comfortable and ready to crush your workout, then by all means, rock those pants!
But if, like me, you find freedom and comfort in less restrictive clothing, don’t be afraid to ditch the pants and do what feels right for you.”
While her views have sparked some debate online, with some praising her confidence and practicality and others expressing reservations due to modesty concerns or gym dress codes.
Tolu Adebayo
Reporter/Social Media Manager