That's Fit

This is a delicate subject, I know. Many of us are not willing or ready to discuss the delicates we do or don't wear while we are on the yoga mat or tromping away on a treadmill hill. But most of us have -- admit it -- done a little sneaky peeky around the locker room just to check out what the other women are wearing under all that spandex and microfiber.

Those of you who don't want to discuss are probably asking (if you're still reading, that is) why in the world you'd need special panties for Pilates or for jogging laps around the rubber track (which sounds strangely like a euphemism, but I swear isn't). The answer is: You don't.

You are welcome to pull on those granny panties or Victoria Secret specials and go to town. There is no judgement in just going for it everyday-undie style.

It's just that some of us sweat. A lot. Or get chafed in sensitive places. And some of us just like to buy special fitness gear -- down to the skivvies -- to help us motivate from behind the laptop to get the blood pumping and endorphins flying. For all of us who like or are curious about workout underwear, here are a few kinds you might consider slipping into your gym bag:

Boy shorts. I love boy shorts for their comfortable cling and for the seamless styling that eradicates any nasty visible panty lines. For those of who've had babies or even lunch, they are much friendlier than low-rise underwear, holding bellies in without cutting into your waist. Look for a breathable microfiber or similar fabric that will wick away moisture and feels really good to slide on. (Pictured here is the Moving Comfort Solstive Boy Short, $15.)


Briefs. For those of us who wear and love low-rise yoga pants, running shorts and track pants, briefs that sit on the hips are a great way to be sure your backside's covered but your underwear's waving hello at everyone behind in you in class. Just be sure to take the time to find the right size and the cut that's as full as you want it to be. If you end up with briefs that have a saggy bottom or are stretched tight, you may end up with the chafing and other irritations of focusing more on your under-gear than your workout that you were trying to avoid in the first place. (Pictured here are the Patagonia Women's Capilene Hipster Briefs, $18.)

Thongs. If you have a tolerance for thongs, especially in the middle of step aerobics or strength training, then more power to you, sister! I always seem to end up doing the yanking dance when I wear a thong to exercise. If that's you too, then skip back to the briefs. But if you are confident and comfy in a thong that fits your curves and class perfectly, then choose a brand that boasts some kind of stay-fit design, is tagless and won't shrink. And just in case, I advise all thong shoppers to buy a size up just to ensure they stay tug-free after lunadry day. (Pictured here is the Ex-Officio Seamless Sport Thong, $15)

Inner briefs. Shhhh, no need to worry about buying special workout underwear at all if you opt for shorts that have a hidden brief built in. Before you buy, be sure to check out the weight and fit of the inner brief to make sure it isn't too flimsy or snug for your personal comfort level. If you like a little up-breeze as you run, then you will be all set. (Pictured here is the Danskin Women's 02 Performance Cross Training Mesh Knit Short, $34.)



Organic. Some undies are now made out of organic cotton, especially for yoga lovers and people who get eco-conscious down to their drawers. You can find fabric that's not only silky to the touch but also antimicrobial to help prevent infection and dampness. (Pictured here is Gaiam's Silver Lining Bikini, $19.)



Commando. Yup, I said it. You know you've done it. And if you haven't, why not give it a try? If you're wearing snug capris or bike shorts or similar, opting out of underwear can be freeing and help you feel flexible. Of course, you will wash your pants every single time you wear then. And of course, you will double-check in a mirror that your poses, squats, stretches and other aspects of your routine won't become a peekaboo for everyone else and an embarassment for yourself. If you're oogied out or need a bit more hygiene in your commandoness, you can always try these.


Whatever really is (or isn't) under there, choose to be comfortable, feel good and at ease in how much you choose to bare. Now gear up and get moving!