7 Workout Hairstyles to Keep You Looking Cute—and Feeling Cool

Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, hiking, or heading to yoga, don’t underestimate the power of looking and feeling your best. Wearing a cute workout hairstyle can definitely help with that, and it’ll ensure your hair stays out of your face so you can focus on achieving your personal best. From anything-but-basic buns (no pun intended) to literal twists on a standard pony, we’ve got cute gym hairstyles for everyone. 

1. Braided, Knotted Bun

If you have a lot of hair and are doing something intense—like a HIIT class or going for a run—you can have faith in this sleek updo that won’t budge. “It stays out of your face and you don’t have to worry about it coming undone,” says NYC celebrity hairstylist Christina Giarrizzo. “To recreate this look, use a strong hairspray or gel to slick your hair back into a ponytail and then create two braids with your remaining hair. Wrap them around into a bun and secure it in with an elastic band or soft scrunchy.” 

2. Double Dutch Braids 

This two-minute gym hairstyle is the perfect way to keep your hair from getting in the way while you’re hitting those PRs. You’re essentially creating two inverted French braids on either side of your head, then securing at the bottom. “This is just about a step above a simple braid that creates a really fun pattern,” says Sarah Potempa, celebrity stylist and founder of the Beachwaver. “As a plus, once you are done wearing your braids, you can reveal a fun textured wave pattern to the hair!” 

3. Claw Clip and Hat 

Trying to salvage that blowout? We got you. “This hairstyle is great for a low impact workout like pilates,” Giarrizzo says. “To recreate this look, simply find your favorite hat to keep your hair out of your face and then use a claw clip and twist hair up and clip it into your hat so it stays secured.” 

4. Parted Slick Bun 

This simple, slicked-back bun is perfect for low maintenance days—or when you’re trying to hold out one more time before that shampoo. “Using a tight bristle or boar bristle brush, part your hair down the center about two to four inches back from your hairline,” instructs hairstylist Katie Kopach. “Brush everything slightly down and back away from the part towards where you would like to position your ponytail. Throw it in a messy bun to finish off your ‘gym hair don’t care’ look!” 

5. French-Braided Bun 

This one’s a bit fancier, but if you’re determined to impress—or know there’s going to be lots of pictures taken—this is one of the cutest workout hairstyles you can try. “A braided bun is a cute and easy way to elevate your standard slick back bun,” Potempa says. After French braiding, create a low bun and then wrap the braid around the base before pinning. A little hairspray will keep everything in place. 

6. High Rope Braid

Whether you’re tossing ropes in the gym or sweating through a cycling class, a classic rope braid is a must-try workout hairstyle. Potempa says, “This is an easy way to elevate your simple ponytail. I love a style that looks a lot more complex than it is and this is a super easy style that looks more elaborate.” Start with a high ponytail, then split it into two sections and twist each toward the right. Next, twist the two together and secure.

7. French Bubble Braid 

For a twist on traditional braids, opt into the cute bubble braid trend. Kopach says it looks more complicated than it is, so don’t be intimidated (just like how you wouldn’t think twice about trying a heavier weight). 

“Just part your hair in two sides and make sure you have plenty of rubber bands,” Kopach says. “Start by gathering the very front section from the top of your eyebrow to the top of the part and create a ponytail in the center of your section.” Continue with large or small sections, depending on your preference. Once you have all of your rubber bands situated, gently pull the sections of hair to puff them up.”