When it comes to gym hairstyles for curly hair, there are many things you may need to consider, such as the right haircare and the right hairstyle to keep your curls happy and healthy while you work out. It’s no secret that a workout can affect curly hair, causing build-up, frizz and a loss of definition, to name a few. However, it is possible to keep your curls protected before, during and after your workout.
If you were wondering which styles fit the bill, then you’ve come to the right place. Below, we share ideas on the best gym hairstyles for curly hair, as well as how you can refresh your curls afterwards.
Best Products for Styling Curly Hair
As curly hair is often drier than other hair types, using the right products before styling is essential. You’ll need products that lock in moisture, minimise frizz and keep your curls defined. You may also wish to factor in any additional needs your curls have prior to your workout.
Here are some of the products you may want to use beforehand:
Curl Cream
Curl creams hydrate curls while offering definition to enhance their natural pattern. They also provide a soft, flexible hold, resulting in smooth and bouncy curls without stiffness.
Foam
Curl foams are ideal for achieving an effortless lift. They help strengthen and define curls while delivering lightweight volume and can be layered with other styling products.
Mousse
Mousse holds curls without weighing them down. It provides volume and enhances natural shine by creating a soft, bouncy cast around the curls.
Jelly
Curl jelly is a great alternative for curl gel. It glides easily through curls, coating them evenly to deliver soft, defined and frizz-reduced results without added weight.
Gel
Curl gels are long-lasting stylers that provide definition and frizz control to keep curls in place. They define curls without flaking or build-up.
7 Curly Hair Gym Hairstyles
Braids
Space buns
Space buns are one of the easy gym hairstyles. Not only do they keep curls secure but they’re also super stylish and a great way to tap into a bit of 90’s nostalgia. To achieve the style, part your hair in the middle and tie each section of hair in two high ponytails. Wrap each ponytail around its base to form buns and secure the buns tightly with bobby pins and elastic bands to finish the look. If you want more of an edgy vibe, pull the buns apart for some added volume.
Slick back bun
Slick back buns are one of the easiest styles to achieve on curly hair, but they require gel and a good technique in order to get it right. The great thing about slick back buns is that they keep your hair away from your face, so you don’t have to worry about it getting sweaty. To achieve the style, apply gel to slightly damp hair and brush it back tightly into a high or low ponytail and wrap it into a bun. You can use a smoothing brush to address any flyway's before finishing the look with bobby pins and a strong hold hairspray.
Pineapple bun
This is one of the most popular gym hairstyles for curly hair because of how quick and easy it is to achieve. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to keep their hair away from their face while also wanting to show off their curl pattern. To achieve the style, flip your head over and gather all of it at the very top of your head. Secure it loosely with a hairband of your choice once or twice, allowing the hair to form a ‘pineapple’ shape.
Plaits
If your curls are in need of a wash and you’re looking for a style that can temporarily revive them and keep them away from your face, then you might want to consider giving plaits a try. There are many options to choose from, including French plaits and fishtail plaits. While plaits are easy to achieve, they may be better suited to those who have looser curls. To achieve the style, start with a three-strand braid at the top of your head and add more hair as you move down. Keep the braid as tight, small and even as you can.
Braided ponytail
If you tend to go all in at the gym, then you might be looking for a style that won’t tangle your curls and that’s where braided ponytails come in. As one of the best gym hairstyles for long curly hair, they can keep your hair secure and they’re pretty stylish. To achieve the style, pull your hair into a sleek ponytail and then divide the ponytail into three equal sections. Then create a three-strand braid all the way down the ponytail and then secure it at the end with a band of your choice.
Wear a Hairband
Another low-effort option for those who don’t want to spend too much time manipulating their curls. Hairbands are a good choice as they can soak up any moisture on your head before it reaches your hair. To achieve this style, place a headband of your choice over your head and position it near the forehead or behind the ears to prevent damage.
How to Refresh your Curls After the Gym
Once your workout is complete, you may be wondering how to refresh curls to keep them feeling fresh and smelling good. The CurlFit Reviving Mist is a must-have for your gym bag as it has been created with the sole purpose of reviving your curls post-workout. It’s a curl-friendly alternative to dry shampoo which visibly reduces the appearance of oil on your scalp and hair, neutralises odour and instantly cools and refreshes the scalp. To use, simply follow the steps below.
Step 1: Shake well to activate the formula.
Step 2: Spray your roots in sections.
Step 3: Massaging gently.
Step 4: Mist lengths to refresh and redefine your curls. Do not rinse the product.
Gym Ready with Curlsmith
If you are looking for gym hairstyles for curly hair, then you’ll be pleased to know that there are many options to choose from that won’t compromise the health of your curls. The key is to apply the right styling products and follow the best techniques for your style of choice, and your curls will be gym ready in no time. Post-workout, you will need to care for your curls, and you can do this with the help of the new CurlFit Reviving Mist, which will reduce the appearance of oil and instantly cool and refresh the scalp, it’s the perfect curl friendly alternative to dry shampoo.
