Wearing the right workout hairstyles can make or absolutely BREAK your gym sessions, am I right?! Check out the hair inspo in this post for your next workout!
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Nothing ruins a great workout quite like hair in your face or a loose ponytail that won’t stay put!
A lot of us struggle to find gym hairstyles that are both functional and cute.
We often settle for basic ponytails that fall flat or come undone halfway through our workout.
These 12 hairstyles for active women will keep your hair secure and stylish through even the most intense training sessions, whether you’re hitting the weights or crushing a cardio class!
There are some styles in this list that are a bit more intricate, while others are super quick gym hairstyles that’ll take barely any time at all.
Cute Workout Hairstyles
Let’s be real – the right hairstyle isn’t just about looking good (though that’s definitely a bonus!).
When you’re focused on proper form and pushing through those last few reps, the last thing you need is hair falling in your face.
A secure gym hairstyle can help you stay comfortable, keep sweat out of your eyes, and prevent you from getting distracted from your workout.
Plus, when your hair is on point, you’ll feel more confident!
1. Flipped Over Ponytail
2. French Braids with a Clip
3. High Updo with Headband
4. Low Braid
5. Claw Clip Hairstyle with Barrettes
6. Double Dutch Braids
7. Add a Wide Athletic Headband
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8. Ponytail with Double French Braids
9. Fishtail Braid Ponytail
10. Single Dutch Braid
11. Dutch Braids with Low Pigtails
12. Sleek High Bun
Hair Essentials for Your Workout
Here’s a quick list of some game-changing hair tools and accessories that’ll help keep your hairstyles in place:
Hair Ties
- Thick, seamless elastics
- Spiral hair ties that prevent dents
Pins and Clips
- No-slip bobby pins
- Barrettes or mini claw clips for securing layers and bangs
- Large claw clips
Headbands
- Wide, non-slip athletic headbands
- Silicone grip headbands for high-intensity workouts
Pre-Workout Hair Tips
- Apply dry shampoo before your workout to prevent greasy roots
- Keep bobby pins handy for securing flyaways
- Invest in quality workout headbands
…and here’s what NOT to do:
- Pull hairstyles too tight, causing headaches and breakage
- Use too many products that can run with sweat (ouch, your eyes!)
Hairstyles for Different Types of Exercise
Different exercises call for different styles – here’s are some awesome options for each type of workout:
Cardio and HIIT
For high-impact movements, braided workout hairstyles or other very secure updos work best
These styles prevent your hair from bouncing around and keep hair completely out of your face during intense movements.
Weight Training
When you’re strength training, a hairstyle that keeps your hair way up high (high bun or ponytail) works well, especially if you’re doing moves where you’ll be lying down or holding a bar across your back.
Avoid loose styles that might come undone during bench press/ab workout type of movements.
Yoga and Low-Impact Workouts
For low impact classes like barre, pilates or yoga, try a secure low bun that won’t get in the way when you’re in inverted positions.
You could also wear a claw clip hairstyle for these workouts.
Quick Styling Tips for Different Hair Types
Fine Hair
- Use dry shampoo or texture spray for better grip
- Wear a headband to stop flyways from getting in your face
- Layer multiple hair ties for extra hold
Thick Hair
- Section hair before styling to manage volume
- Use larger, stronger elastics and use multiple clips/elastic to accommodate all of your hair
- Try creating multiple smaller braids to weave into one
Curly Hair
- Use silk scrunchies to prevent moisture loss and dents in your hair
- Use silk-lined headbands to prevent frizz
- Try protective workout hairstyles or pineapple updos to preserve your curls
FAQ’s
When it comes to workout hairstyles, comfort is key. You want your hair out of your face and secure, especially for high-intensity workouts.
Braids are your best friend for thick hair—they’ll keep things neat and prevent tangles.
For medium-length hair, a solid ponytail works wonders, and for shorter hair, try mini braids or clips to keep those bangs and layers in place.
If you have curly or coily hair, consider protective styles that can go the distance through your workouts.
To make your gym hair look cute and stylish, it’s all about adding little details to your go-to styles.
Switch out a regular ponytail for a fun fishtail braid, or add a small accent braid along the side of your head.
If you’ve got medium-length hair, double Dutch braids or a crown braid are great for looking polished while staying secure.
You can even jazz up a simple high ponytail by wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic or adding two small braids at the temples.
The best gym ponytail workout hair has three things: height, security, and comfort.
Position your ponytail high—right around the crown of your head—to keep it from swinging around. But don’t pull too tight at the hairline to avoid headaches and hair loss!
If you’ve got super thick hair, try using two hair ties for extra hold.
Finding the perfect hairstyle for the gym makes your workout so much easier and more fun, and I hope you found some hair inspo for your next fitness class!
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