If you’re embarrassed by underwear talk, move on to the next blog. We’re talking about ladies underthingies and working out. Gentlemen, take a deep breath.

This is a question I’ve had for awhile, but I didn’t really know how to bring it up.

What is the best underwear to wear when working out?

The few times I’ve worn a pair of cotton underwear to work out, I’ve regretted it. So, I know that those are definitely out (I only have a few anyways, I prefer the good stuff). I’ve already moved beyond cotton socks and am slowly working on my non-cotton workout wardrobe.

But now, I’m at the underthings stage and am not sure where to start. Add my larger size to the mix and it gets complicated. Any larger ladies have this problem?

While some runners love to talk about their running clothes, they become a little more reserved when it comes to undergarments and — as a result — suffer in silence wearing uncomfortable underwear. The “synthetic material/no cotton” rule also applies to underwear. Make sure you wear tight-fitting, non-cotton underwear so any moisture is wicked away and you avoid chafing. Most uncomfortable underwear issues can be avoided by following that rule. Some running shorts do have “built-in” underwear. It is perfectly fine to wear just these shorts — you don’t have to wear another pair of underwear underneath them. Some runners, especially men, prefer to wear spandex under their shorts instead of underwear. Some female runners I know swear by running thongs and claim that they’re extremely comfortable. It’s really a matter of personal preference, so you just have to figure out what works for you. (SOURCE: About.com)

First of all, I don’t wear thongs. I don’t find them comfortable, and let’s be honest… when you get to a certain size thongs just aren’t practical. Why would I willingly let my booty hang out? This baby got back – junk in the trunk – and it just wouldn’t be right to have it go uncontained.

Perhaps I’ll change my mind once I’m at my goal weight, but in my experience over the past 4 months, I have found that the Body by Victoria Bare Ultimate high leg briefs are the most comfortable for working out. They help suck in the gut and keep everything where it’s supposed to be, without riding up my booty. The Body by Victoria seamless bikini briefs and Body by Victoria Hiphuggers aren’t bad either.

What hasn’t worked? My Body by Victoria boyshorts. They will NOT stay put when I’m walking, running or lifting weights. I’ve also had problems with the top bands rolling down.

I’ve looked into some of the “runners underwear” but I’m a little hesitant to spend $20+ on a single pair of underwear I might not like or that might not fit. I’m looking at the following options:

• Under Armour mesh hipster, $19.99
• Patagonia Active Briefs, $20
• ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boy-Cut Briefs, $18

Do you have any suggestions? Feel free to post a comment below, or if you’d prefer to remain anonymous, send me a message using the contact form.

Ok, and because the picture of these has been cracking me up all afternoon, I just have to ask what is up with these? Are they the granny panty of workout gear? I mean, REALLY?

Oh, and don’t get me started on those shorts with the built-in underwear. I don’t get those at all.

Coming soon: Keeping the girls under control when running (aka, How do I keep my boobs from giving me whiplash?)