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Are you tired of messy hair getting in the way during your workouts? Whether you’re lifting weights at the gym, going for a run, or doing yoga, the right hairstyle can keep your hair secure, stylish, and out of your face. From long hair to short hair, these 27 modern, cute and practical hairstyles will have you looking and feeling great during your fitness routine. Let’s explore the quick and easy looks perfect for any workout!
High Sleek Ponytail
A high sleek ponytail is the ultimate workout classic. This style keeps your hair pulled tight, polished, and off your neck, making it ideal for intense cardio sessions or weightlifting. It suits those with long hair or medium-length locks. Straight hair works best for achieving that sleek, shiny finish, but you can also flat iron curly hair before tying it up. Avoid this style if you have very short hair.
For care, use Redken Frizz Dismiss Smoothing Oil to tame flyaways and add a glossy finish. To hold the ponytail in place, apply L’Oréal Paris Lock It Bold Control Hairspray. A soft scrunchie or a metallic band can elevate the look while being gentle on your hair.
Braided High Bun
The braided high bun combines practicality and elegance, making it perfect for yoga, pilates, or low-impact workouts. Start by braiding your hair into a single or multiple braids and twist them into a tight bun on top of your head. This style works for long hair and medium-length hair but might be challenging for short hair. It’s especially great for hot days when you want to keep your neck cool.
To keep the bun secure, use Goody Ouchless Hair Ties, and apply Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray for added grip and texture. Add a decorative pin or a subtle headband to enhance the style.
Messy Low Bun
A messy low bun is perfect for a quick and casual look. This style works for any hair type, including curly hair, and suits all face shapes. The loose, effortless style is ideal for lighter workouts like stretching, pilates, or walks in the park. If you have short hair, let a few strands fall for added softness.
To maintain volume, use Batiste Volumizing Dry Shampoo before styling. Secure the bun with spiral hair ties like Invisibobble Original Hair Ring to avoid creases.
French Braided Ponytail
The French braided ponytail is an elegant style that keeps your hair secure and fuss-free. Start with a French braid at the top of your head and tie the rest into a ponytail. This style is perfect for those with long hair or medium-length hair, especially straight or wavy textures. It stays in place even during high-intensity workouts.
To create a clean braid, use Aveda Brilliant Anti-Humectant Pomade to prevent flyaways and frizz. Secure with a high-quality elastic like Scünci No Damage Elastics.
Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are a trendy and secure style, perfect for intense gym sessions or outdoor activities. This style involves creating two tight braids from the front to the nape, keeping hair firmly in place. It’s ideal for all hair types, including curly hair, and works well for medium to long hair lengths.
For easier braiding, apply Living Proof No Frizz Styling Cream to add smoothness and control. Use a setting spray like Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Spray for hold. Add a sporty headband for flair.
Low Bubble Ponytail
The low bubble ponytail is stylish yet practical, perfect for quick workouts. Start with a low ponytail and tie sections with elastics to create “bubbles.” This hairstyle works well for long hair or medium-length hair and adds a playful touch to your gym look.
For shine and definition, apply Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil. Use clear or colored elastics for styling, like Kitsch Elastic Hair Ties.
Twisted Half-Up Half-Down
The twisted half-up half-down hairstyle is ideal for lighter workouts or post-gym errands. It involves twisting small sections of hair on each side and securing them at the back. It’s versatile, working well for short hair, medium, or long hair.
To achieve the look, use Ouai Wave Spray for added texture and finish with Tigi Bed Head Manipulator Matte Wax for hold. Small claw clips or pearl pins add a decorative touch.
Boxer Braids
Boxer braids are perfect for keeping hair secure during intense workouts. This look involves two tight braids running from the front to the back of the head, making it ideal for long hair and medium-length locks. This style works especially well for thick or curly hair.
To ensure grip and definition, use Oribe Gold Lust Dry Texturizing Spray. Finish with a shine serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum.
Braided Headband with a Low Ponytail
The braided headband with a low ponytail is a cute and practical hairstyle that keeps hair off your face while adding an elegant touch. This look starts with a small braid that acts like a headband across the top of the head, while the rest of the hair is pulled into a low ponytail. It works well for long hair and medium-length hair and suits straight or slightly curly hair. It’s perfect for pilates, barre, or low-intensity workouts.
For styling, apply Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Frizz Control Cream to keep the braid smooth and frizz-free. Secure the low ponytail with a soft elastic like Slip Pure Silk Hair Ties to avoid hair damage. Add a small decorative clip for extra charm.
High Space Buns
High space buns are a playful and trendy workout hairstyle. The look involves dividing your hair into two sections and securing them into buns on top of your head. It’s ideal for medium to long hair and works for all hair textures, from straight to curly hair. This style is perfect for high-energy workouts like Zumba or HIIT.
Use Kristin Ess Working Texture Spray for volume and grip before styling. Secure the buns with strong elastics and bobby pins like Scunci No-Slip Bobby Pins to keep them in place. Add subtle metallic accessories for a stylish twist.
Wavy Ponytail with a Hair Wrap
The wavy ponytail with a hair wrap is a stylish twist on the classic ponytail. It involves soft waves flowing from a mid-level ponytail, with a strand of hair wrapped around the elastic for a polished finish. This look suits long hair or medium-length hair and works beautifully for straight or wavy textures.
To create soft waves, use TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Gel or a curling wand. Set the style with OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Hairspray for shine and hold. A small silk ribbon or scrunchie adds a chic touch.
Fishtail Braid Ponytail
The fishtail braid ponytail combines a secure ponytail with intricate braiding. The style starts with a high ponytail, transitioning into a fishtail braid. It’s ideal for long hair or medium-length locks and works best for straight or slightly textured hair. This hairstyle stays put during high-impact workouts while looking effortlessly chic.
To achieve this look, apply Garnier Fructis Style Curl Sculpt Cream Gel for control and texture. Secure the end of the braid with a clear elastic. For added elegance, use a decorative barrette or wrap a small strand of hair over the tie.
Low Braided Pigtails
Low braided pigtails are a playful yet practical option for workouts. Start with two low ponytails, braid each one, and secure with elastics. This style works for long hair, medium lengths, and even short hair with extensions. It’s especially suitable for outdoor runs or casual yoga sessions.
For added grip, apply Maui Moisture Curl Quench Curl Milk before braiding. Secure with soft ties like Kitsch Satin Sleep Scrunchies to minimize breakage. A sporty headband can keep stray hairs in place.
High Ponytail with Curtain Bangs
A high ponytail with curtain bangs is the perfect blend of trendy and functional. The high ponytail lifts the hair off your neck, while the soft curtain bangs frame your face beautifully. This style works for long hair and shoulder-length locks, particularly for straight or wavy textures.
Use OUAI Matte Pomade to smooth the ponytail and prevent flyaways. For volume in the bangs, spritz with Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast. Add a sleek scrunchie or hair cuff for a polished finish.
Twisted Side Ponytail
The twisted side ponytail is a stylish and functional look for workouts. Start by twisting two sections of hair from the front and securing them into a low side ponytail. This style works beautifully for long hair and medium-length locks and adds a cute touch to your gym outfit.
Use Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream for smooth, shiny hair. Secure the ponytail with an elastic and add a decorative clip for flair.
Cornrow Braids with a Bun
Cornrow braids with a bun is a sleek, protective style perfect for keeping hair neat during intense workouts. Start by braiding cornrows along the scalp, gathering them into a secure bun at the crown or nape. This look works beautifully for medium to long hair and is ideal for textured or curly hair. It’s a long-lasting style that stays put during gym sessions and outdoor runs.
To care for this style, use Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner for moisture and shine. Apply a lightweight oil like Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Oil to keep your scalp healthy and hydrated.
Top Knot with Face-Framing Strands
The top knot with face-framing strands is a stylish and easy hairstyle that keeps hair off your neck while leaving soft pieces around your face. Ideal for medium to long hair, this look adds a relaxed vibe perfect for yoga or pilates. The strands soften the face, making it flattering for most face shapes.
To achieve this look, use Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer to add shine and control. Secure the top knot with a spiral tie like Teleties Large Hair Ties. Use a curling wand for soft waves on the face-framing strands.
Slicked-Back Low Ponytail
The slicked-back low ponytail is a minimalist and polished style that keeps hair secure and chic during workouts. This look works well for short hair, medium, or long hair, particularly straight or smooth textures. The sleek finish ensures no flyaways, making it ideal for weightlifting or spin classes.
Use Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray for a frizz-free, glossy look. Apply Oribe Gel Sérum Radiance, Magic, and Hold to smooth down baby hairs and flyaways. Secure with a classic hair tie or wrap a thin strand of hair around the base for a polished finish.
Voluminous High Bun
The voluminous high bun is perfect for keeping hair off your neck during intense gym sessions. This style works for medium to long hair, creating a fluffy and lifted look with added volume. It’s ideal for both straight and curly hair textures.
To achieve volume, use Kenra Volume Spray 25 for extra lift and hold. Secure the bun with Goody Spin Pins for a strong, crease-free grip. Finish with a lightweight hairspray to lock the look.
Pull-Through Braid Ponytail
The pull-through braid ponytail creates a voluminous, intricate look perfect for medium to long hair. This style involves tying sections of hair with elastics and pulling through for a braid effect. It’s ideal for workouts that require secure hairstyles.
To maintain structure, use Pantene Pro-V Flexible Hold Hairspray and secure the ponytail with soft elastics like Invisibobble Original Hair Rings.
Textured Low Ponytail with Braided Detail
The textured low ponytail with braided detail is a chic and practical style. Start with a low ponytail, add a small braid to one side, and gently tousle the ponytail for texture. It’s perfect for long hair or medium-length hair and suits wavy or straight textures.
Use Drybar Triple Sec 3-in-1 Texturizing Spray for volume and texture. Secure the ponytail with a decorative elastic like L. Erickson Grab & Go Ponytail Holders.
These 25 easy hairstyles for workouts will keep your hair stylish and secure no matter the intensity of your fitness routine. From sleek ponytails to intricate braids, there’s a look for every hair type and length. Which hairstyle will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!
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