In gymnastics, every detail matters—from the tightness of your handstand to the firmness of your hairstyle. Hair that falls loose during a back handspring or obscures your vision on beam doesn’t just look messy—it can be a real distraction or even a safety hazard.
The USA Gymnastics Women’s Development Program makes it clear:
“Hair should be secured away from face – should NOT obscure vision of apparatus.”
And yes—failure to follow this guideline can result in a deduction of 0.20, especially if it remains uncorrected after a warning.
(Source: USA Gymnastics Development Program Code of Points, p. 7)
That’s why gymnasts and coaches alike prioritize hairstyles that do more than look good—they hold up under pressure.
Braids: Built for Movement
Braids are a gymnast’s best friend. They hold tight, lay flat, and keep hair completely controlled—no matter how many flips, twists, or passes are in the routine.
Unlike loose ponytails or simple buns, braids grip close to the scalp, distributing tension evenly while reducing the chance of painful snags or messy fallout. They’re ideal for both daily practices and high-stakes meets, and with a few variations, you can find the right braid to suit any hair type or length.
Here are the most reliable and gymnast-approved braided styles:
1. Classic French Braids
French braids are timeless for a reason. They start at the top of the head and incorporate hair gradually as you work down toward the nape, keeping everything tight and close to the scalp.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Distributes pressure evenly, reducing scalp strain.
- Flat against the head—ideal for bridges and rolls.
- Looks clean and elegant for meets or casual for practice, depending on how it’s styled.
💡 Pro tip: Use a touch of gel or styling cream before braiding to reduce flyaways and hold shape longer.
2. Dutch Braids
Think of Dutch braids as the reverse of French braids—the hair sections cross under instead of over, making the braid sit on top like a rope.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Tighter than French braids and more voluminous.
- The raised braid offers bold style and great grip.
- Ideal for gymnasts with thicker or layered hair.
This is a great look for competitions when you want a little extra flair without sacrificing function.
3. Boxer Braids (Double Dutch Braids)
Boxer braids are simply two Dutch braids that run parallel down each side of the head, parted straight in the middle.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Offers symmetrical balance—perfect for staying secure during flips.
- Less likely to shift or slip than a single braid.
- Works well under sweatbands or practice helmets.
Boxer braids are particularly popular for high-energy training sessions or long meet days.
4. Double Braids into a Bun
This hybrid style starts with two French or Dutch braids, which are then twisted together into a tight bun at the base or crown.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Combines the stay-put power of braids with the clean, elevated look of a bun.
- Keeps the neck cool and free from hair contact—especially useful in summer or high-volume training.
- Ideal for competitions where both neatness and durability matter.
5. Cornrow Braids
Cornrows are narrow, tightly woven braids that lay flat to the scalp. They can be worn straight back or in fun patterns depending on personal style.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Extremely secure and low-maintenance—can last for several days.
- Great for textured hair and reduces tangling or damage during practice.
- Withstands even the most demanding routines.
💡 Pro tip: For multi-day meets or training camps, cornrows are a practical, stylish choice.
Buns: Sleek and Strong
Buns are a tried-and-true choice for gymnasts who want their hair completely secured with zero distractions. Whether you’re vaulting, tumbling, or doing press handstands on beam, a well-placed bun keeps your hair off your face, off your neck, and out of the way.
From classic ballet buns to creative twists, these styles are competition-approved and practice-ready. They’re easy to customize based on hair length, thickness, and the intensity of your routine.
1. High Ballet Bun
The high ballet bun sits at the crown of the head. Hair is pulled into a ponytail, twisted into a coil, and secured with bobby pins, a scrunchie, or a hairnet.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Keeps hair off the neck and away from mat contact during rolls and bridges.
- Looks elegant and professional—perfect for meets.
- Easy to dress up with a scrunchie or bow in team colors.
💡 Pro tip: Use a bun donut for added volume and smoother structure, especially if your hair is fine or layered.
2. Braided Bun
Start by braiding your ponytail, then wrap it into a bun and pin it in place. This version adds grip and holds tighter than a regular twist.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Adds extra friction, reducing slippage mid-practice.
- Works well for long or thick hair that tends to shift.
- A stylish twist on the basic bun with more texture.
3. Low Nape Bun
This bun sits low on the neck, just above the collar. It’s ideal for gymnasts who wear helmets during conditioning or find high buns uncomfortable.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Comfortable and quick to do.
- Works well for shorter hair that won’t reach the crown.
- Minimizes head pressure and is great for lying flat on the back.
4. Messy Gym Bun
A casual twist-and-wrap bun, secured with a strong elastic and a few pins. It’s more relaxed than competition buns but still functional.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Fast and low-effort—perfect for conditioning or home practice.
- Can be redone in seconds if it loosens.
- Comfortable and keeps hair out of the way without being overly tight.
5. Twisted Buns (Single or Double)
These buns are formed by twisting sections of hair before wrapping them into one or two coiled buns.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Space buns (two side buns) offer cute symmetry and excellent hold.
- Distributes weight evenly—great for thick hair.
- Popular for themed practices or team spirit days.
💡 Pro tip: Add gel before twisting to keep layers from popping out, and use mini claw clips or pins to hold them in place.
Fun but Functional Styles
Not every gymnastics hairstyle has to be serious or slicked-back. Some days, gymnasts want to express a little personality—without sacrificing practicality. These fun but functional styles strike the perfect balance: they’re creative, eye-catching, and still tough enough to stay in place through tumbling passes, conditioning drills, or a full meet rotation.
1. Bubble Ponytail
This playful style begins with a high or mid ponytail. Small elastics are spaced every 2–3 inches down the length, and each section is gently tugged to form “bubbles.”
Why gymnasts love it:
- Adds volume and bounce without looseness.
- Easy to do in under 5 minutes—great for younger gymnasts.
- No braiding required, but still keeps hair locked in.
💡 Tip: Use clear or color-matching elastics for a cleaner look, or go bold with team-colored bands for practice spirit.
2. Twist Backs into Bun or Ponytail
This style starts with two small sections of hair near the temples, twisted back along the scalp and pinned or tied into a bun or ponytail.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Keeps shorter strands or bangs away from the face.
- A great quick fix when you don’t have time to braid.
- Versatile—can transition from practice to performance with ease.
💡 Tip: Add a little gel before twisting to prevent flyaways.
3. Rope Braids
Instead of using three strands like a traditional braid, rope braids twist two sections of hair in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Simple and fast, but holds tight once secured.
- Ideal for accent braids, side braids, or finishing off ponytails.
- Looks polished with minimal effort.
💡 Tip: Works best with slightly damp hair or a touch of styling cream to prevent unraveling.
4. Accent Braids or Mini Braids
These are thin braids placed along the hairline, temple, or through the ponytail. They’re not structural but add style and help lock in layers or flyaways.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Adds visual flair without taking over the entire style.
- Can be easily combined with buns or ponytails.
- Great for gymnasts growing out bangs or short layers.
💡 Tip: Secure with mini elastics and pin the ends under the rest of the hair for a seamless look.
5. Space Buns (Double Buns)
This fun, youthful style features two buns—one on each side of the head. Start by parting hair down the middle and forming two high ponytails, then twist or coil them into buns.
Why gymnasts love it:
- Even weight distribution—ideal for thick or long hair.
- Adds personality for themed practices or low-pressure meets.
- Surprisingly stable when secured properly.
💡 Tip: For added hold, braid each ponytail before twisting it into a bun.
In closing, a hairstyle that holds isn’t just for looks—it’s part of the performance. It reflects the same care and control gymnasts put into their skills on the mat. With the right tools, a little preparation, and some creativity, every gymnast can find a hairstyle that works as hard as they do—secure, stylish, and ready to move.
