Tired of your long hair sticking to your face mid-workout or falling loose halfway through a set? You’re not alone. Finding the perfect gym hairstyle that’s both stylish and sweat-proof can feel like a full-time job. That’s exactly why we’ve pulled together 27 gym hairstyles for long hair all designed to stay put, keep you cool, and look good while doing it. From sleek braids to twisty buns, these styles aren’t just pretty, they’re practical. Whether you’re lifting, running, or stretching it out in yoga, you’ll find options that work with your routine, not against it. Let’s dive into styles that keep up with your grind.
Creative and Functional Gym Hairstyles for Long Hair
1. Double Dutch Braids into a Bun
Start with two tight Dutch braids on each side of your head. Braid them straight down toward the nape. Once done, twist both into a single bun and pin it in place. This style holds firm during intense workouts and keeps all your hair tucked away.
2. Bubble Ponytail with Clear Elastics
Pull your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Add more clear elastics every few inches down the length. Gently tug each section to form bubbles. This look is playful, practical, and keeps your hair from sticking to your back.
3. High Slicked-Back Braid
Brush your hair upward into a tight, high ponytail. Smooth it with gel or spray to control flyaways. Braid the ponytail down and tie it off at the end. This sleek style won’t budge during cardio or weightlifting.
4. Low Braided Chignon
Start with a low ponytail, braid it, then wrap the braid into a chignon. Pin securely underneath. This elegant look stays close to your neck and avoids bouncing during movement. It’s perfect for both light and heavy gym days.
5. Twin Space Buns with Middle Part
Part your hair down the center. Create two high pigtails and twist each into a bun. Secure with pins or ties. This fun, balanced look keeps your hair out of your face and works well even for high-impact routines.
6. Side Dutch Braid into Ponytail
Start a Dutch braid on one side of your head, pulling in sections as you go. End it at the back and tie it into a ponytail. This keeps hair controlled and stylish, especially for long layers that fall forward easily.
7. French Braid Crown Wrap
Begin braiding near one ear and wrap the French braid over your head like a crown. Tuck the end underneath and pin it in place. This keeps all hair lifted and secure, while adding a pretty and cute frame around the face.
8. Low Loop Braid
Tie a low ponytail, braid it halfway, then loop it through itself. Pin the ends underneath the loop. This style gives a clean look and reduces whip-back during fast-paced workouts. It also works great with medium to long hair.
9. Knotted Rope Ponytail
Divide your ponytail into two sections and twist both. Then wrap them around each other to create a rope effect. Secure the end with an elastic. This rope style keeps long hair tightly bound and prevents flyaways during movement.
10. Half-Up Boxer Braids
Part the top half of your hair and split it down the center. Braid each section into Dutch braids, ending in small ponytails. Leave the lower half loose or tie it up. This gives a breathable feel while keeping your upper layers fully controlled.
11. Twisted Top Knot with Wrap Tie
Pull your hair into a high ponytail and twist it tightly. Wrap it into a topknot and secure it with pins. Finish with a fabric tie or scrunchie for added grip. This keeps your hair off your neck and stays put during active workouts.
12. Multi-Sectioned Ponytail Bubbles
Start with a high ponytail and add elastics every few inches down the length. Gently pull each section to form bubbles. This look reduces tangle and movement. It’s easy to do and holds well during both cardio and strength training.
13. Cornrow-Inspired Triple Braids
Create three narrow braids, one in the center and one on each side. Start close to the scalp and braid downward. Tie all three into one low ponytail. This style keeps every strand locked in, even during high-impact training.
14. Twisted Side Pony with Scrunchie
Sweep your hair to one side and divide into two sections. Twist them together and tie with a scrunchie. It adds style and holds the twist firmly. Ideal for medium to long hair, this look stays secure without pulling.
15. Fishtail Braid to the Side
Gather your hair to one side and split it into two parts. Cross small sections alternately to form a fishtail braid. Tie the end firmly. This textured style controls layers and works well for low-impact gym routines.
16. Braided Headband with Bun
Braid a small section of hair from behind one ear and pull it across your head like a headband. Pin it near the other ear. Tie the rest of the hair into a bun. This style keeps the front secure while looking polished.
17. Flip-Through Ponytail Tuck
Make a low ponytail and create a small gap above the tie. Flip the ponytail through the gap. Tuck the end under and pin it in place. This creates a soft twist that keeps hair tidy without needing a full braid.
18. Sleek High Pony with Hair Wrap
Brush your hair into a high ponytail and secure tightly. Take a small section of hair and wrap it around the elastic. Pin it underneath with claw clip. This sleek look prevents movement and holds firmly for all workout types.
19. French Braid into Low Bun
Start a French braid at the crown, working down toward the nape. Gather the remaining hair and twist into a bun. Pin it securely. This style distributes weight and keeps long hair anchored throughout your session.
20. Crisscross Elastic Style
Section the top layer of hair into small parts. Use mini elastics to criss cross strands across the back of the head. Tie the rest into a ponytail. This look is fun, functional, and keeps shorter layers under control.
21. Inside-Out Ponytail Braid
Begin with a high ponytail and flip it inside out through a gap above the hair tie. Then braid the ponytail downward. This twist-braid combo keeps the style close to your head and reduces bounce during fast movement.
22. Textured Top Knot with Curl Spray
Apply curl spray and scrunch your hair to enhance texture. Pull it into a high bun and leave a few loose ends. Pin securely. This relaxed topknot gives a soft, sporty look and holds well through high-energy workouts.
23. Wrapped Twin Pigtail Braids
Part your hair down the middle and braid two pigtails tightly. Wrap a small strand around each elastic and pin underneath. This style is secure, balanced, and great for evenly distributing hair weight during longer sessions.
24. Minimalist Twisted Ponytail
Gather hair into a low ponytail, then divide into two and twist each section. Twist them together and secure them. This look is sleek, subtle, and easy to maintain while keeping long hair managed.
25. Side Swept Braid with Undercut Illusion
Brush all your hair to one side and braid it diagonally downward. Tighten the braid at the scalp to mimic an undercut. This edgy look holds firm and prevents any strands from falling across your face.
26. High Braid-Wrapped Bun
Tie a high ponytail and braid it completely. Wrap the braid into a bun and pin tightly. This version adds grip and texture to the regular topknot. It stays stable even during fast-paced gym circuits.
27. Boxer Braids into Low Pigtails
Create two Dutch braids starting at the front hairline. Continue braiding tightly toward the nape and finish as low pigtails. This classic gym style keeps every strand in place, no matter how intense your workout gets.
Final Takeaways
Styling long hair for the gym doesn’t have to be complicated. The right look can boost confidence and eliminate distractions. These 27 hairstyles give you versatility, control, and comfort no matter how intense your workout gets. Choose one that suits your session, secure it well, and focus on crushing your goals.
