13+ Workout Hairstyles: Best Hairdos for Intense Workouts?

Key Takeaways

• Check out these 13+ easy workout hairstyles, from braided ponytails to high buns, that will keep your hair in place and stylish! Scroll down to look at a dose of inspiration to wear for your next gym session.
• Come to Livicor Hair to open up a new world of options for 100% virgin Remy human hair extensions. Whether you want extra volume or length, we’ll give you everything you need to create your gym hairstyles like your own natural hair.

1. High Ponytail

Old but never out of style! The classic high ponytail is the perfect choice to keep your hair off your face, no matter how much you sweat during intense running, cardio, or other high-impact exercises. Simply hold your hair up to the crown with a hair tie, smooth it with a cream to prevent tangles, or wear a lovely ribbon for a sleek, chic look.

Love this hairstyle, but is your hair too short or thin? Then, go for micro link hair extensions, which add length and volume without tensioning your natural hair. You can feel comfortable and confident during strenuous workouts, as you can be sure that your extension will not move anywhere.

2. Braided Ponytail

Add some edge to the classic ponytail with the easiest add-on: the braid. This effortless style adds a cuteness factor to your overall look. It keeps your hair from tangling or touching your neck better than a regular ponytail, especially during high-intensity movements like burpees, jump rope, or boxing.

Just secure the ponytail at the bottom of your head, braid it to the end, and secure it with a ribbon or elastic.

3. Messy Bun

Try a messy bun if you just want to keep your hair neat and away from your neck and face during low-intensity exercises like yoga or Pilates. Pull all your hair back or to the top of your head and pin it up for a carefree, pretty bun. Use a few bobby pins to secure stray hairs underneath so your neck can breathe.

4. Double Buns

Are you looking for easy, cute gym hairstyles? Have fun and get electrified with double buns on either side of your head. This hairstyle is not only super easy to create, but it is also great during any mat workout when you wouldn't want your head to get hurt while lying down or when you want to keep your hair intact after long sessions in dance or aerobics classes.

5. French Braid

When it comes to gym-friendly hairstyles, French braids are a great choice. Not only do they keep your hair in place by braiding from your forehead and incorporating sections as you go, but they also reduce the risk of hair falling out or tangling while you sweat. Opt for sleek, tight French braids for running, cycling, and sports that require continuous movement.

Also, consider adding hair extensions to create more elaborate and outstanding braids, making each workout session exciting.

6. Top Knot(~80 words)

If you really hate the feeling of your hair flying in your face and neck when you work out, try a top knot. Simply flip your hair upside down, gather the strands neatly on your head, twist, and secure with an elastic band.

This hairstyle is perfect for strength training, gym workouts, and heavy lifting—especially when you want to focus all your energy on your workout instead of blowing your hair out of your face!

7. Fishtail Braid

Yet another excellent hairstyle for people with long hair is a fishtail braid. This style takes a small strand from the outer edge of one side, two equal sections of hair, and crosses it over the inner edge of the other side to create a textured, sturdy effect. Not only does it add a bit of flair to your look, but it also keeps your curls tangle-free during outdoor workouts, runs, volleyball, and sweaty activities.

8. High Bun

Like a top knot, a high bun will keep your hair secure and entirely out of your face and off your neck during a vigorous cardio workout, an hour-long bike ride, or another high-intensity workout.

Pull your long hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a tie. Want a bigger, more dramatic bun? Add a few clip-in extensions to add volume in a flash. If you like sleeker things, smooth down your strands with a light-hold hairspray. Easy peasy, right?

9. Side Braid

Another trendy idea for low—to medium-intensity workouts, like yoga or brisk walking, is a side braid styled over one shoulder. Pull all your hair to one side, split it into three equal sections, and braid it tightly to the end for a neat, feminine look that doesn't put that much pressure on your scalp.

10. Ponytail with a Headband(~80 words)

Feel like a true athlete with a sports headband below your hairline! This style is the perfect way to keep those bangs out of your face and add extra hold to your classic ponytail, no matter how hard you work out—whether running, lifting weights, or doing HIIT. You can switch to a scarf headband to look stylish while keeping you from feeling too hot and sweaty.

Ponytail with a headband workout hairstyles

11. Bubble Ponytail

If you want to add some fun to your regular ponytail, create playful “bubbles.” Pull your hair up and 1 or 2 inches from where it's tied, tease the strands to add volume, and secure each section with a hair tie, continuing until you reach the end of the ponytail. This simple yet cute hairstyle will make you feel carefree and stand out in dance or aerobics classes.

12. Dutch Braid

When it comes to braids, in addition to fishtail and French braids, you can also consider an inverted Dutch braid. It's safe and elegant, or you can rock it with a zig-zag part, a staple of the 2000s. Adding accents like these will help you look more stylish while releasing endorphins during high-intensity workouts, such as running and cycling.

13. Braided Bun

Double the neatness and hold during your intense workout, even after sweating, with a hairstyle where hair is braided and twisted into one bun. Smooth on your favorite oil or wax to ensure your hair stays in place, even when you give it your all in medium—to high-intensity exercises that require constant head movement.

We recommend adding length and volume to experiment with these trendy workout hairstyles for maximum flair and impact. Contact us today for a consultation on which hair extension option best suits your needs and hair texture, whether straight, curly, or wavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to wear your hair down at the gym?

Yes, depending on your preference, you can wear your hair down. However, it is always good to keep your hair up to prevent tangling, discomfort from sweat, and distractions during exercise, especially if you have very long, thin hair. If you still like having your hair down, use gel or wax to keep it in place.

How to style bangs when working out?

For sleek, polished-looking bangs that don't get in your face during a workout, apply a little gel through them and smooth them down, bobby-pinning them to the sides. You could also wear a sports headband lower than your hairline, which absorbs all that sweat and further prevents your hair from falling on your face.

Is the gym ruining your hair?

No, the gym doesn't directly destroy your hair. However, salty sweat can block follicles, dry, and discolor your hair. Therefore, after any workout, wash your hair gently with a mild shampoo and hydrate your hair with a mask. Also, put on a headband to avoid sun exposure, and don't wear your hair too tightly because such actions might lead to hair breakage and loss.