16 Gymnastics Hairstyles for Competition That Stay Put

Precision matters during a gymnastics routine. Your hair should be the last thing on your mind when performing.

Competition days require styles that withstand flips, twists, and landings. Flyaways can be a major distraction under bright stadium lights.

We have curated the most secure options available today. These looks combine professional elegance with maximum structural durability.

Discover the perfect style to keep you focused on your performance. These 16 hairstyles ensure total confidence on the floor or beam.

1. Classic High Bun

The classic high bun remains a staple for competitive gymnastics because it centers the weight of the hair. By placing the bun at the crown, the athlete maintains better balance during rotational movements.

To ensure this style stays put, use a high-quality hair donut or padding that matches the hair color. This provides a structural base that pins can grip into more effectively than hair alone.

Finish the look with a generous coating of firm-hold hairspray and a fine-tooth comb to eliminate bumps. A matching scrunchie can be added over the base for extra security and flair.

2. Double Dutch Braids to Bun

Double Dutch braids provide exceptional security by anchoring the hair directly against the scalp. This prevents the “bounce” that often leads to hairstyles loosening during high-impact landings.

The braids should be pulled tight and converge at the nape or the crown. Once the braids meet, the remaining hair is coiled into a tight, compact bun.

Using this method ensures that even shorter layers are pinned down securely from the forehead to the bun. It is one of the most reliable styles for long sessions on the uneven bars.

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3. Triple Braided Ponytail

The triple braided ponytail is an excellent choice for athletes with very thick or heavy hair. By dividing the hair into three sections before braiding, the tension is distributed more evenly.

Start by creating a high, sleek ponytail secured with a heavy-duty elastic. Divide the tail into three even sections, braid each individually, and then braid those three braids together.

This “braid-within-a-braid” technique creates a dense, sturdy rope that will not whip around or unravel. Secure the end with a clear elastic and a secondary wrap to prevent slipping.

4. Modern Bubble Braid

Bubble braids offer a high-fashion look while providing multiple points of security along the length of the hair. Each “bubble” is anchored by an elastic, making it nearly impossible for the style to fall out.

To achieve this, start with a sleek ponytail and place elastics every two inches down the length. Gently tug the hair between elastics to create the rounded bubble effect.

This style is particularly effective for gymnasts who dislike the weight of a traditional bun. The multiple elastics ensure that if one section moves, the rest of the style remains perfectly intact.

5. Crown Braid with Pins

A crown braid wraps around the circumference of the head, keeping hair completely away from the face and neck. This style is ideal for athletes who find ponytails distracting or uncomfortable during floor routines.

The braid acts as its own support system, distributing the weight of the hair across the head. Use U-shaped hairpins to anchor the braid to the scalp hair every few inches.

This style is incredibly aerodynamic and stays flush against the head. It provides a sophisticated, polished appearance that judges often appreciate for its neatness and lack of movement.

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6. Fishtail Low Bun

The fishtail low bun is a sturdy alternative to the traditional ballet bun. The intricate weaving of the fishtail braid creates a much tighter grip on the hair strands than a standard three-strand braid.

Start by creating a low ponytail at the nape of the neck and weaving a tight fishtail braid. Coil the finished braid into a flat circle and secure it with several large bobby pins.

This style sits low, which can be preferable for certain types of head-positioning in tumbling. The density of the fishtail weave makes the bun very resistant to loosening over several hours of competition.

7. French Braid into a High Pony

Combining a French braid with a high ponytail offers the benefit of scalp-level security and a dynamic look. The French braid starts at the hairline and pulls in all fringe or bangs.

Once the braid reaches the crown, it is merged with the rest of the hair into a high ponytail. This prevents the front sections of the hair from sagging or falling forward during flips.

For maximum hold, use a small amount of hair wax or pomade while braiding. This creates “grip” between the strands, ensuring the braid stays tight even during the most intense movements.

8. Cornrow Accents with Bun

Cornrow accents involve creating small, very tight braids along the top or sides of the head. These accents feed into a main bun, providing a modern look and incredible structural integrity.

Because these braids are so close to the scalp, they hold back even the shortest flyaways and “baby hairs.” This eliminates the need for excessive clips that might fall out on the mat.

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The bun at the back can be styled as a donut bun or a braided knot. This combination is widely considered one of the most “bulletproof” styles for high-level competitive gymnastics.

9. Wrapped Ballet Bun with Hairnet

The wrapped ballet bun with a hairnet is the ultimate solution for ensuring no hair escapes. While it is a traditional look, the addition of a matching hairnet provides an extra layer of containment.

The hair is first slicked back into a ponytail, then twisted and pinned into a bun. An invisible hairnet is then wrapped over the bun and secured with a final round of pins.

This technique is perfect for gymnasts with layered hair that tends to poke out of braids or buns. It creates a smooth, uniform surface that looks impeccable from every angle of the arena.

10. Twisted Side Braids

Twisted side braids offer a secure way to manage hair without the complexity of traditional braiding. By twisting two sections of hair around each other, you create a rope-like effect that stays tight.

These twists should follow the curve of the head and meet at the back. They can then be finished in a low ponytail or a braided bun for a clean finish.

Twists are often easier to tighten than braids, making them a great option for quick adjustments between events. Use a light gel to keep the twists smooth and prevent stray hairs from popping out.

11. Multi-Elastic Segmented Pigtails

Segmented pigtails use multiple elastics down two separate paths to ensure total control. This style is excellent for distributing weight and keeping hair away from the spine during rolls.

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Each pigtail is divided into sections, with a new elastic added every few inches. This creates a ladder-like effect that keeps every inch of the hair secured.

This is a particularly strong choice for athletes with medium-length hair that is too short for a single high bun. The dual-sided nature of the pigtails helps maintain perfect symmetry during leaps.

12. Diagonal French Braid

A diagonal French braid starts at one temple and moves across the back of the head to the opposite side. This unique path provides a different tension point that can be more secure for some.

The diagonal movement helps capture hair from both the top and the bottom of the scalp. It ends in a side-swept bun or a side ponytail that stays out of the way of the neck.

This style is visually striking and stays very flat against the skull. The lack of bulk at the center-back of the head makes it comfortable for back-extension rolls and similar skills.

13. Top Knot with Under-Braid

The under-braid involves braiding the hair from the nape of the neck upwards toward the crown. This is the opposite of a traditional braid and is designed to catch the “flyaways” at the base of the skull.

Once the braid reaches the top of the head, the remaining hair is gathered into a high top knot. This ensures that the back of the head remains completely smooth and secure.

This style is a favorite for those who perform many floor skills where the back of the head might touch the mat. It prevents the friction of the mat from loosening the hair at the neck.

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14. Pull-Through Braid

The pull-through braid is not actually a braid but a series of interconnected ponytails. Because every section is secured with its own elastic, it is one of the strongest styles available.

Each section “pulls through” the one above it, creating a voluminous but incredibly stable chain. It does not loosen like a traditional braid can when the athlete moves vigorously.

This style is ideal for creating a thick, professional look that requires zero maintenance during a long meet. It provides a modern aesthetic while meeting all the rigors of high-impact gymnastics.

15. Braided Space Buns

Braided space buns divide the hair into two equal parts, creating two buns on either side of the crown. By braiding the hair before pinning it into buns, you double the security.

The dual buns help balance the weight of the hair, preventing the “tilting” sensation some athletes feel with a single bun. They stay firmly in place during rapid spins and rotations.

Secure each bun with at least four large bobby pins placed in a cross-pattern. This ensures that the buns will not budge even during the most powerful landings on the vault.

16. Sleek Back Slicked Ponytail

The sleek back slicked ponytail is the pinnacle of minimalist competition hair. It relies on high-quality styling products to create a shell-like finish that prevents any movement.

Use a combination of water and a strong-hold gel to pull the hair back into a mid-height ponytail. Secure it with two elastics instead of one to prevent the ponytail from drooping over time.

For the final touch, wrap a small section of hair around the elastics to hide them and pin it underneath. This creates a professional, streamlined look that stays perfectly in place from start to finish.

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How do I prevent flyaways during a long competition?

The best way to prevent flyaways is to apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair before styling. Once the hairstyle is finished, use a clean toothbrush with hairspray to smooth down any remaining stray hairs around the hairline.

Is gel or hairspray better for gymnastics hairstyles?

For the most secure hold, you should use both. Gel is best for the initial styling to provide grip and sleekness, while a high-performance hairspray acts as a final “seal” to protect against humidity and movement.

Should I style the hair while it is wet or dry?

Styling on slightly damp hair is often more effective for competition. Damp hair is more pliable and allows you to create tighter braids and smoother buns, which will then set firmly as the hair dries.

how do I secure a heavy bun so it doesn’t bounce?

To secure a heavy bun, use a “cross-pinning” technique where bobby pins overlap in an ‘X’ shape. Additionally, using a hair donut or bun shaper provides a structural anchor for the pins to grip into.

Are scrunchies allowed in professional gymnastics competitions?

Yes, scrunchies are generally allowed and are often encouraged to match the athlete’s leotard. However, they should be used as a decorative element over a heavy-duty elastic rather than as the primary hair fastener.

How can I make a hairstyle last through multiple events?

Use multiple elastics at every base point to ensure that if one snaps, the style remains intact. Additionally, using “spin pins” or U-shaped pins instead of just flat bobby pins can provide a much deeper and more secure hold.