Get ready, set, sweat? Not so fast! With the new athleisure movement in full swing, looking good doesn’t just extend to your clothes. Yes, that means a haphazard bun simply won’t do anymore — but you don’t need to look like you’re headed to a ball while getting your fitness on. Here are 20 sleek workout hairstyles that will still look killer even after you’ve sweated off some serious calories.
[ Tutorial: 3 Fuss-Free Hairstyles for Dirty or Post-Gym Hair ]
Sweaty Chic: 20 Gym-Friendly Hairstyles to Try Now
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Faux-Messy Pony
Messy hair can be a good thing, especially for high-impact routines like jogging.
Image: @fannylyckman
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French Braids
Classic French braids are a stylish way to look chic while enjoying a rigorous workout session.
Image: @kristinsundberg
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The “Workout-Ready” Bob
Shorter styles are ideal for physically demanding workouts. They’re fashionable and easy to style.
Image: @margaret__zhang
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Capped Waves
Who wants to straighten hair before an arduous workout? Find the perfect cap to complement your perfectly imperfect locks.
Image: @ponysmakeup
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Cornrows
Kickbox your way fit with impeccably braided cornrows that will hold up for days after your class.
Image: @thesmartista
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High Tousled Pony
Tousle your locks for a touch of effortlessness. The higher and longer the ponytail, the better.
Image: @kristin_ess
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Curly Pom Poms
This sports-friendly take on pigtails will motivate you to whip yourself into shape.
Image: @laeldivine
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Traditional Bun
You can’t go wrong in a classic bun. Just make sure to use a good holding spray or gel and a few extra pins for extra support.
Image: @lobosworth
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Braided Mane
Lara Croft pulled off this sexy athletic look—and you can too in your next spin session.
Image: @latoyaforeve
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Double Buns
Doubly chic and infinitely effortless—glitter not included.
Image: @riawnacapri
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Twisted Goddess Crown
Channel Aphrodite in the gym by experimenting with a twisted crown instead of the traditional braided option.
Image: @vashtie
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Remixed Top Knot
If you’re ready for a fresh take on this minimal yet sporty style, trail a single large braid into a top knot from the back for a flirty twist.
Image: @missysueblog
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Top Knot-ch
Bantu knots are perfect for on-the-go moments—and fitting for a day at the fitness center.
Image: @kieraplease
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Neat Pony
Yes, you can challenge yourself to a calorie-burning power walk and whip that long ponytail around in style.
Image: @alealimay
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Gym Waves
Waves aren’t just for the beach. You can flaunt your tresses en vogue at your favorite yoga studio (though we recommend wearing it up for hot yoga).
Image: @thinkreese
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Half-Up Bun
Can’t decide whether to wear your hair up or down? Have it both ways with this easy look.
Image: @glamtwinkels1
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The After-Workout Chignon
After a strenuous workout at the gym, you want to look chic and refreshed to run errands or see girlfriends. A quick chignon is an easy fix.
Image: @anniesforgetmeknots
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Super Curls
Rock your natural curls and enjoy your sweat session fuss-free.
Image: @joiechavis
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Low Bun
This workout fave has stood the test of time for a reason. Low maintenance + glamorous = hair perfection.
Image: @mercedehallen
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The 5-Strand Braid
Breathe life into the standard single braid with this 5-strand plait worthy of a red carpet (as well as the gym).
Image: @aurorabraids
