Hello,

I tried doing a search about this but couldn't really find anything. I will be getting a tattoo on my back and I go to the gym on a regular basis. I also do a lot of running.

Obviously I won't be doing any heavy exercise that require extreme back movement/lying down on my back etc... but what about running? It is going to be really hard not to exercise for the three weeks or so it will take to heal. Will sweating a lot with a fresh tattoo be a big problem?

Any suggestions/tips appreciated.

While sweat does cary some dirt, grease, and bacteria... it still comes from your body, so it's not too dangerous to you. The real problem with gyms is other peoples sweat from the machines or different things. Also, I'm sure the other people would not appreciate your tattoo funk on the machines either.
The easy remedy for all of your worries.. just shower as you probably do anyway after a work out. Simply washing the tattoo off, and freeing it from sweat and dirt will keep it, and your skin happy. Simple enough eh? Good luck

Great - thanks for your advice!

I'd also wait 3 or so days after you get the tattoo for any type of gym style exercise.

Running should be ok but sit-ups are a bad idea, I did some the day after a session with HEAVY shading, OUCH!!!

I think most professional trainers would agree taking three or four days off would not hurt your fitness, and may even be benefital.

I'm thinking of getting a tattoo right below my waistline. Thing is, I'm a cross-country runner and I make it a point to run every morning to keep fit. Is anyone positive that I can still run and sweat daily with a fresh tattoo?