As much as we all love our hair, it can totally ruin a good workout. I know I’m not alone when I say that there is absolutely nothing worse than having to stop mid-sweat sesh to remove the sticky strands of hair that have somehow found their way outside your ponytail or bun and onto the side of your face.
If you’re in agreement, then it’s time to stop letting your hair be an afterthought each time you go to the gym. Instead of defaulting to the same tired ponytail every single time, why not opt for a new style that’s just as workout-friendly? To help you out, we pulled together an assortment of sporty hair inspo from top fitness influencers and instructors that are sure to survive even the sweatiest and toughest gym sesh.
Ahead, our 10 workout-friendly hairstyles to help you upgrade your gym hair game.
Bubble Pony
Switch out your everyday pony for a more playful style like this bubble pony seen on Reebok athlete Taylor Rae Almonte. To get this look, you’ll want to tie a bunch of hair bands along the length of your ponytail, tugging at the hair in between each tie to get the “bubble” look.
Curls Free
Some days you just want to leave your hair down and let your curls do their thing. Consider adding a simple side part to your lock like health coach Massy Arias to dress up this more chill look.
Space Buns
Looking for a fun way to keep your hair out of your face while you work out? Two words: space buns! Rock them on their own or take some inspo from Soul Cycle instructor Kat T. and pair them with straight locks for a cool half-up look.
Braided Ponytail
For an easy style that’s sure to stay in place on all your runs, opt for a pretty braided ponytail. Just braid your locks into a low pony, fasten with a colorful hair tie like Lululemon ambassador Colleen Quigley, and you’re good to go!
Add a Headband
The easiest way to add some flair to any workout hair look is to add a pretty headband as Peleton instructor Ally Love proves.
High Pigtails
Few things are cuter or more workout-friendly than a set of pigtails. Rock them a little higher up on your head like fitness coach Melissa Alcantara for a fun look that won’t ruin your hair’s part.
Half-Up Half-Down
For days when you can’t decide whether to wear your hair up or down, meet in the middle with a simple half-up half-down look like Peleton instructor Kendall Toole. As an added plus, this style will transition well from the gym to any of your post-workout dinner plans.
Braids on Braids
Combine two amazing styles — a chunky braid and a high top knot— for a gym look that’s sure to make a statement. And, don’t worry you don’t have to be rocking braids like yoga instructor Dr. Chelsea Jackson Roberts to pull off this style.
Messy Bun
You can never go wrong with a messy bun as KKSweat founder Kara Liotta. They are simple, easy, and will be sure to keep all of your hair out of your face during your most grueling workouts.
Braided Pigtails
Take your pigtails up a notch by adding some pretty braids into the mix like Peleton instructor Robin Arzon. We loved how she adorned each of her pigtails with metal hair charms!
Will you be trying out any of these hairstyles? Let us know in the comments below!
