9 Hairstyles for The Gym and Women With Natural Hair | Essence (2024)

All too often the stigma associated with the gym and natural hair discourages black women from exercising, many of whom believe that natural hair won’t last past a strenuous work-out. To debunk those problematic imputations, we’ve rounded up low-maintenance hairstyles that are great for the gym and curly-girl approved. You’ll never have to forgo your post-work-out plans, because these manageable hairdos will carry you from the gym to the office, to happy hour and beyond. Check them out.Cornrows

Photo: Instagram/ @followhelitaCornrows are a hairstyle that requires a lot more than sweat to shift shape. Because this hairstyle weaves your hair together, your strands will rarely come undone. What’s even better is that the intricate parting keeps your scalp accessible for a post-work-out detox with your favorite dry shampoo.Pineapple

Photo: Instagram/ @aminamarieThere are a few reasons why we love this hairstyle for the gym. The pineapple, which involves using a headwrap to plop your curls on top your head like a pineapple, not only keep your strands from sticking to your neck but the hairdo also prevents your work-out routine from disrupting your curls.Goddess Locs

Photo: Instagram/ @deannarobsinsonfitEnter the realm of protective styles: Goddess locs are a protective style that keeps your hair on lock. Because synthetic hair is wrapped around your natural hair, you can shield your strands from moisture and frizz.Ponytail

Photo: Instagram/ @hannahbrofmanAside from being every girl’s favorite low maintenance hairstyle, we love ponytails because they keep our strands from clinging to our skin and they’re easy to manipulate. A rake of pomade is all it takes to polish up this look for a business meeting or brunch with bae.Rope Twist

Photo: Insatgram/ @brittnebabeIf you want the safety of protective styles like box braids or faux-locs, but also want a hairdo that’s lighter in weight, try rope twist.Faux-Hawk

Photo: Instagram/ @allymissloveIf you’re looking to have a bit more fun with your gym hair, then a faux-hawk may be your coiffure du jour. The edgy look is functional and stylish for working out.Top Knot

Photo: Instagram/ @tamsgoinhamThe top knot may be the G.O.A.T. of gym hair. It’s super chic and isn’t too stressful on your strands either. When it comes to figuring out if you’ve just left the gym or the runway, we can’t tell.Box Braids

Photo: Isnstagram/ @massey.ariasBox braids may not seem that exhilarating until you’ve exercised in them. They’re tough enough to withstand grueling drills and pretty enough to slay all day.Undercut

Photo: Instagram/ @mynameisjessamynA short undercut is the easiest of hairstyles for slaying at the gym. They’re light as a feather and require little to no maintenance. You can also wash your hair on the go to remove musty odors without disrupting your style.