Workout Hair and Hairstyles

Hairstyle for women to workout at the gym — Photo: Bigstock

Sometimes, I think that keeping my hair in a cute pixie cut would be so much easier for so many reasons, one of them being gym upkeep. I am the type of girl that feels like I need to shower immediately after working out because all that sweat grosses me out and I know I'm not alone.

Showers, gym, and sweat seem to go hand in hand, which is why the shorter the hair, the quicker the clean-up. But what happens when the only time you have to do your pilates is during your lunch break from work or when you are in between work and school or work/school and a night out? You get an hour, the gym is around the corner and you're desperate to take twenty minutes for yourself, but you wonder how you can go from gym sweat to business casual and still look presentable without smelling like body odor, especially if you don't have time to shower off the workout.

The odor part seems to be easier to solve, as we have body sprays, deodorants, body lotions; a variety of products specifically made for the skin and scents, so not using soap is not the end of the world. You might be lucky enough to get a quick rinse off, but what about your hair? What happens to the style that you spent all morning (or maybe the previous night) perfecting? Does that just fall by the wayside because you decided to work out, take a quick jog or yoga class?

Hair Solutions

We have a few cute hair solutions if you don't have the time or luxury of styling after working out so you can look great as you head back to the office, feeling energized and glamorous. If you have a pixie cut, you are in luck as all you will need is some pomade or gel to restyle and reset your locks before you clock back in. Cute clips work wonders, as do headbands, which leads me to headbands specifically.

Headbands are an amazing option when you work out because they are so versatile, colorful, or simple, and they can be used during or after a workout for a fun and chic look while keeping flyaways at bay. Cute wraps can also be a fun alternative, depending on the type of job that you have. But I'm sure you can find something that suits your needs, especially if you pair it with whatever the outfit of the day is. There are some nice bejeweled headbands that can be classy and work wonders.

Woman wearing a headband during a workout — Photo: Dragon Images/Canva

If you are wondering about dry shampoo since you had to skip a regular washing, experts suggest that you use dry shampoo before working out, not when your hair is all sweaty, as it will just be counterproductive. So, yes, you can bring it, but use it earlier in the day and try to bring a hair dryer with you, though many gym locker rooms have them ready for your use. It is best to attempt to get all of the sweat out of your roots after a workout, especially if you got extra sweaty.

You may not have a lot of time, but drying on a lower temperature will also open the follicle and allow any odors to be released, which will make you feel a bit more confident. If you are among the lucky ones who have bone-straight hair that is naturally anti-frizz, you can get away with a quick wash and then let your hair air dry, maybe adding a loose ponytail for a fun style, but that is all up to you.

Post-workout Looks

As for looks to wear to the gym that will translate post-workout, a ponytail or bun that has been slicked back with gel is a good idea. It is low maintenance but still classy and adding a little hairspray after the gym will keep the sleekness. Because sweat contains salt more than oil, you can use a texturizing spray after you have worked out to create some fun beach waves, regardless of the time of year. This can be fun and liberating.

Hair slicked back into a short ponytail — Image: AI illustration

Messy buns are always a great option because if they get even messier in the workout process, it will look natural and intentional, not like you were doing too much downward facing dog. Braids are highly recommended. Not only are they super cute but when you take them out after the gym, you can have loose and sultry waves with the addition of some texturizing spray.

There are a lot of hair options for the professional woman and even men with long hair. I actually approve of the man bun, and if you can pull it off, more power to you. If you have long, wavy hair as a man but are going to the gym on your break, don't be afraid of wearing a headband because it will keep your hair out of your face. Then, remove the headband and throw some water or spray in your hair and back to work you go and no one will be the wiser and in fact, the gym look might feel even more relaxed and somewhat liberating.

Be Prepared

In the end, it is all about working with your hair type as well as what is permitted by your job. Make sure to spray the dry shampoo before going to the gym, use a blow dryer to get rid of excess sweat or use the saltiness along with a texturizing spray to create a fun and natural beauty look. Play up waves and curls by braiding your hair for your workout, know that sleek and low ponytails can work wonders, and headbands will be your best friend.

If you have bangs, which many women do, always carry a bobby pin to clip them to the side. In the end, they may be the only part of your hair that needs the most attention. So, bring whatever brush you use to dry your bangs as well as the hairdryer so that you can at least tame the bangs.

No Excuses

Do not use the excuse that you have long hair or bangs or your hair is too frizzy to avoid going to the gym. If you're going to be like that, you might as well chop all of your hair off, but it's not great hair or a great body.

You can have both. You can work out and then go back to work or even head out to meet friends for dinner and dancing. The only person who can limit you is, well, yourself and don't do that when your options appear to be limitless. You can do this. You've got this! Good luck and have a great workout!

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