TW/CW: discussion of sensory difficulties, sweat, itching, bodily functions.

Hey everyone! In the last year or so I've managed to get into a semi-regular exercise routine. I'm proud of that, even if the other areas of my life are riddled with executive dysfunction and just generally shit, lol. But, I keep slowing down with exercise -- and sometimes stopping for a week or two altogether -- because sensory issues keep putting me off.

It's mostly with touch and physical sensations like sweat. My biggest sensory issue was always with hearing before this, so I didn't anticipate this. But basically, the moment I get sweaty, I'm immediately put off. Itching too -- I get a little warmed up, as is normal with exercise, but suddenly the touch sensitivity kicks in and the itchiness of my regular clothes is painful. Even the sensation of my hair on my head will suddenly become painfully itchy and sensitive.

Sometimes I can get through the sweat discomfort and the itchiness, but obviously this isn't a long-term solution! Getting through it is easier if I'm in a gym, but I've had COVID twice now and I need to start exercising at home more, if only because gyms are closed where I live right now (Canada)... I keep being told to just "power through it" by the neurotypical people in my life (often lovingly), but obviously this isn't a solution either, since we can't just "get over" sensory issues.

Autistic folks who exercise regularly but also suffer touch sensitivity issues (or anyone else who has advice!), how do you get over the issues with sweat and touch sensitivity/itchiness? Both with clothes and with your hair? (For example, do you wear specific clothes or a headband/cap while exercising?)

Thanks so much! :)