How to Keep Leotards From Riding Up in the Back

Leotards are the uniform of choice for female gymnasts, ice skaters and dancers. The smooth, snug fit of a one-piece leotard enables complete freedom of movement, emphasizes the musculature of your upper body and creates a crisp, clean look in your arms and torso. The downside to such a close fit is that the fabric is likely to ride up in the back. A leotard that rides up is uncomfortable and distracting, but constant tugging at the seat of your bodysuit downgrades the quality of your performance and can cost you points during a competition. Instead of fussing with your leotard when you should be focusing on your technique, prevent it from riding up.

Things You'll Need

  • Leotard
  • Body adhesive
  • Hair spray
  • Panty liner
  • Double-sided tape
  • Skin-colored bodysuit or briefs
  • Gymnastics shorts
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase the proper size and style leotard for your specific body type. While you want a snug fit, avoid buying a leotard that is too small or too short in the torso. Leotards are available in a large variety of sizes -- including extra long – so there is no need to settle for an improper fit.

    • 2

      Apply body adhesive or hairspray to your rear end before pulling on your leotard. You can purchase body glues as liquids, sprays or with roll-on applicators. Apply the glue or hairspray, position your leotard correctly across your buttocks and press the fabric against the sticky surface of your skin. Hold the fabric in place until the adhesive or hairspray dries.

    • 3

      Wear an extra-long, thin panty liner. Reveal the adhesive strip, and stick the panty liner to inside of your leotard, spanning the area that tends to ride up.

    • 4

      Apply a strip of double-sided tape to each of your buttocks. Gently stretch the bottom of your leotard across your rear end until it lies smoothly against your skin, then press the fabric against the tape to secure it in place.

    • 5

      Wear a skin-colored bodysuit or ballet briefs under your leotard. These tight-fitting, seamless underclothes are discreet and will not be visible to audiences or judges.

    • 6

      Purchase and wear a pair of gymnastics shorts over your leotard. Shorts keep the rear end of your leotard in place, preventing it from riding up.