4 Quick and Easy Natural Hairstyles for Working Out

It’s been a few months since I started working out again, and I’m seeing results. I created a schedule to work out at least three times a week, which has worked well, especially since I have free time after work. Unless I go swimming, I stick to my regular hair care regimen by washing my hair weekly.

Figuring out easy natural hairstyles for the gym was NOT something I thought I needed to worry about. There are occasions where I have gone to the gym or group fitness class with “free hair,” but like playing mas, the best hairstyles are when my hair has been out of my face. I admit I am lazy when doing my hair in general, but these hairstyles are simple enough for anyone.

Quick and Easy Natural Hairstyles for Working Out

If you’re starting your fitness journey or trying to figure out how to style your hair for the gym, here are the best natural hairstyles for working out:

Puffs

If you have an old twist-out, braid-out, or wash-and-go style, a puff is an easy style to transition to using an old knee-high stocking or long elastic hairband. Puffs are a quick fix and a low-manipulation hairstyle that keeps your natural curls intact during intense workouts. When converting an old hairstyle into a puff, I usually don’t have to worry about styling until the next wash day, which usually ends on the weekend.

To maintain the health of your hair while in a puff, moisturize your natural hair with a leave-in conditioner and seal it with your favorite oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil. This will keep your curls hydrated and prevent frizzy edges after your workout.

Buns

Buns are great protective styles for the work week and easy hairstyles for working out. To achieve a “perfect bun,” use an old sock or purchase a foam donut from your local beauty supply store. Remember to lay your edges down with a headscarf and gel or pomade for a polished look.

A high bun is a great option if you want to keep your hair off the back of your neck during low-impact workouts like yoga or Pilates. For an intense workout, consider securing your bun with a silk scarf to prevent it from unraveling and keep your natural hair protected.

Twists

If my hair is in a two-strand twist, a few days later, I can convert it to a twist out or put it in a puff. Twists are versatile and can be styled into a twisted updo, where the front twists hang down or are unraveled for a more playful look. This style works well for short and long hair, offering flexibility in your daily routine.

Adding light oil to your twists before a workout can help maintain the natural oils in your hair and reduce unwanted frizz. Twists are also a great way to preserve your natural textures, allowing you to focus on your fitness goals without worrying about your hair.

Braids

Braids work similarly to twists. They can be converted to a braid-out or worn as a regular protective style if extended with box or knotless braids. The possibilities are endless. Braids are one of the best options for keeping your natural hair secure during various activities, from an outdoor run to a high-intensity workout.

For gym hairstyles, you can opt for mini braids or French braids, which keep your hair neat and reduce the amount of sweat that reaches your scalp. If you prefer a low ponytail or space buns, braids can be easily incorporated into these styles as well.

Tips for Healthy Hair During Workouts

1. Use a Leave-In Conditioner: Before your workout, apply a leave-in conditioner to keep your curls moisturized and protected. This is especially important for black hair, which can be prone to dryness.
2. Secure with Bobby Pins and Hair Ties: Keep bobby pins and hair ties in your gym bag for quick adjustments. These tools are essential for securing your hairstyle during a sweat session.
3. Wear Dri-Sweat Headbands: To manage the amount of sweat and prevent frizzy edges, wear a dri-sweat headband during your workout. This will help absorb sweat and keep your hairstyle intact.
4. Protect with Silk Scarves: After your workout, tie your hair down with a silk scarf to help smooth any frizz and maintain your style for the rest of the day.
5. Refresh with Witch Hazel or Cool Water: If you’re concerned about sweat build-up, dab your scalp with witch hazel or rinse with cool water to refresh your hair without disrupting your style.

Best Hairstyles for Different Workout Routines

Whether you’re doing a low-impact workout or an intense sweat session, there’s a natural hairstyle that suits your needs. For instance, a top knot or high ponytail is perfect for keeping hair off the top of your head during cardio, while a messy bun works well for a quick yoga session.

If you have short hair, consider simple styles like braid-outs or twist-outs that can easily transition from gym to work. Protective styles like knotless braids or a low ponytail are great workout hairstyle options for long hair, preventing tangling and breakage.

Finding the best hairstyles for working out doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating protective styles like braids, twists, and buns, and using hair accessories like head wraps and dri-sweat headbands, you can achieve a great workout hairstyle without compromising the health of your hair. Remember to maintain your hair’s moisture with natural oils and leave-in conditioners, and don’t forget to protect your edges with a silk scarf post-workout.

The best part about these hairstyles is that they are easy to do and can fit seamlessly into your workout schedules, allowing you to focus on your fitness goals while looking and feeling your best.

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What are some other good natural hairstyles for working out?