hair styling · occasions
Best Hairstyles for the Gym ThatStay Put
The best hairstyles for the gym, for short, medium, long, and curly hair, with sweat tips, how to protect your hair from tension, and quick post-workout fixes.
Hairover Team
The best gym hairstyles hold your hair off your face without pulling on your hairline. Dutch braids stay put through the toughest sessions, low ponytails or buns are the easy everyday choice, and headbands keep short hair in check. Use soft ties, and change where you tie your hair, since constant tension can cause breakage.
Long hair
Two Dutch braids. The strongest hold, even during high-intensity sessions. They also help avoid tangles and look neat. See Dutch vs. French braids.
Low ponytail. Fine for weights and yoga, and it won’t interfere with lying on a bench.
Braided ponytail. A ponytail braided all the way down keeps your length controlled, for fewer tangles.
Low bun. Good for yoga, swimming, or anything with fast movement. Avoid a high bun if you’re lying on your back.
Medium hair
Half-up with a band. Secures the front, and leaves the rest free.
Two small braids at the front. These hold the shorter pieces back. Add a stretchy headband if you need one.
Low pony with clips. Use clips for the layers that fall out. Layers and cuts like butterfly cuts often need a little help here.
Short hair
Wide headband. Holds everything back in a second. Great for pixies, bobs, and short layers.
Small clips. Use them to pin back a fringe.
Sweatbands. They absorb sweat, and they keep your fringe drier.
Nothing at all. Short cuts are the easiest of all. See pixie cut ideas. For men, look at low-maintenance haircuts.
Curly and coily hair
Pineapple. A loose ponytail high on your head with a soft scrunchie preserves your curls.
Satin-lined headband. Reduces friction at your hairline.
Two-strand twists or braids. They keep your hair stretched and protected, with less to do after your session.
Post-workout, rinse or mist your hair with water, and add some leave-in to refresh it. See our 3B hair and 4C hair guides.
Men’s options
Buzz cuts and tapers need nothing at all. For medium or long hair, try a headband or a loose man bun. Don’t tie it too tight, as it can strain your hairline.
Protect your hair and hairline
- Use soft, wide bands. Thin elastics can snap strands.
- Change your style. Tying your hair in the same spot every day stresses it.
- Don’t tie it too tight. Tender temples or bumps are a warning sign.
- Don’t sleep in sweaty ties. Take them out once you’re done.
- Avoid wet tie-ups. Wet hair is more fragile.
Sweat and swimming
After a sweaty session: rinse with water, or apply dry shampoo once your scalp has dried. Keep your brushes clean too. Our guide on how often to wash your hair can help you find a routine, and how to stop greasy hair covers oily roots.
Before swimming: wet your hair, and apply a little conditioner before you put on a swim cap. Rinse straight after, as chlorine can dry out hair and fade color.
Related guides
- Hairstyles for Nurses: Easy Looks for 12-Hour Shifts
- Ponytail Hairstyles: Sleek, Bubble, Braided, and More
Choose a cut that works out
If you train often, a cut that ties back easily can save you a lot of trouble. Upload a clear photo to Hairover, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
Preview active-friendly cuts on your own photo with Hairover.
FAQ
What is the best hairstyle for working out?
Dutch braids hold best for long hair because they stay in place during movement. A low ponytail or bun suits lighter sessions, and headbands work well for short hair.
Is it bad to work out with your hair in a tight ponytail?
Doing so repeatedly can stress your hairline and cause breakage. Tie your hair loosely, use soft bands, and change the position from time to time.
Do I need to wash my hair after every workout?
Not necessarily. Rinsing with water or using dry shampoo can be enough, depending on your scalp. Curly hair often does better with a rinse and a little conditioner.
