10 Effortless Hairstyles for Fitness Lovers and gym goers

For many active women, juggling a fitness-packed schedule with the everyday hustle can leave little time for intricate hair routines. Whether you’re commuting straight from a yoga class to the office or squeezing in a gym session between errands, your hair shouldn’t slow you down. And yet, isn’t it frustrating when a good workout becomes the launching pad for a bad hair day? Fear not! This guide is your one-stop shop for easy workout hairstyles for the gym that are not just practical but also stylish. Plus, I’ll share essential tips on post-swim blow-drying and hair care to keep your locks full of life.

Why Your Hairstyle Matters at the Gym

If you’re an active woman, you’re all too familiar with what gym sessions can do to your hair. Sweat leads to scalp build-up; tight ponytails can cause breakage, and swimming without the right routine means battling chlorine damage. The goal here is simple, to find quick gym hairstyles that keep your hair out of your face during intense workouts while still looking fresh enough to walk out the door afterward.

Hair goals? Check. Workout-ready? Double-check.

Pre- and Post-Workout Hair Hacks

Before we jump into hairstyle ideas, a few key tips can simplify your hair routine even more:

• Dry shampoo is your saviour: Pre-empt greasy roots by spraying dry shampoo on your scalp before working out. It absorbs sweat while you exercise, leaving your hair fresher post-workout.
• Use a silk scrunchie: Unlike traditional hair ties, silk scrunchies prevent creases and reduce breakage.
• Always rinse after swimming: Chlorine can wreak havoc on your hair, so rinse with plain water immediately after leaving the pool. For extra care, follow up by blow-drying your hair with a good quality hair dryer like the mdlondon BLOW hairdryer and use heat protectant to avoid damage.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to try out these fabulous hairstyles!

10 Easy Hairstyles for Active Women

1. The Classic Ponytail with a Twist

Ideal for running, cycling, or gym sessions, this isn’t your average ponytail. Part your hair down the middle, secure it with a silk scrunchie, and then twist or braid the tail. This prevents it from moving around too much during intense exercises.

Bonus Style Tip: Wrap a strand of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the hairband for a polished look.

2. Braided Crown

Want your hair out of your face entirely? A braided crown keeps your hair secure while looking effortlessly chic. Simply part your hair into two sections, braid each side, and pin them across your head to form a “crown.”

Perfect for yoga or high-intensity workouts!

3. The High Bun

Quick and versatile, a high bun is your no-fuss companion for any workout. Twist your hair at the top of your head and secure it in place with bobby pins or a non-slip hairband.

Pro Tip for Swimmers: A high bun helps keep your hair mostly dry when you’re in the pool for laps.

4. The Low Braided Ponytail

Combine functionality with style by braiding a low ponytail. This keeps your hair locked in place, reducing tangles and post-workout maintenance.

Great for long runs or gym sessions where practicality is key.

5. Double Dutch Braids

This gym hairstyle stays sturdy even during the most intense workouts. Divide your hair into two sections, braid each one close to the scalp, and tie them off at the ends.

Active women love this for its sporty yet playful vibe.

6. The Messy Bun Look

For a laid-back vibe, try a messy bun. Use your fingers instead of a brush to tie your hair in a loose bun at the nape of your neck or slightly off-centre. The casual look is perfect for post-workout brunches too!

7. Half-Up, Half-Down Knot

Perfect if you want to keep hair out of your face while leaving some down. Simply take the top section of your hair, twist it into a small bun, and secure it with a clip.

This works well for lower-impact workouts like Pilates or dance.

8. Sleek Low Bun

Want an effortless style that transitions from gym to work? Slick back your hair into a low bun using a styling gel or cream. This look is sleek, professional, and totally gym-proof.

9. The Headband Tuck

For those with shorter hair, a wide headband can be your best friend. Sweep your hair back using the headband and tuck the ends underneath it for a neat look. Additionally, it keeps sweat off your face.

Pro Tip for Runners: Opt for moisture-wicking headbands.

10. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is a trendy alternative to the classic. Start with a normal ponytail and add small elastic bands down the tail every few inches, fluffing out the sections in between to create the “bubbles.”

For an added bonus, it holds up against even the sweatiest cardio session!

Blow-Drying Hair After Swimming

If you’re a water lover, blow-drying your hair after swimming is non-negotiable. Here’s how to do it the right way without damaging your strands.

1. Rinse Thoroughly – Rinse your hair in plain water immediately after swimming to remove as much chlorine as possible.
2. Apply Leave-In Conditioner – Before blow-drying, apply a leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair and protect it from heat.
3. Use a Heat Protectant – This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat of the blow-dryer.
4. Blow-Dry on Low Heat – Pat your hair dry with a towel, then use the low-heat setting of your blow-dryer to prevent over-drying.

By following this routine, your hair will stay healthy and shiny, even with frequent swims.

Hair That Works as Hard as You Do

Your active lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing great hair. These easy workout hairstyles are designed for fitness lovers who need both practicality and style. Plus, with the right pre- and post-workout haircare tips, you can keep your locks healthy and happy, even after countless gym sessions or swims.