Written By: Tiffany Smith

Yeah, I want to work out but what about my hair? This question is on the top of Black women’s minds every time they decide to start exercising more. Our connection to our black roots has been the focus of our culture and an expression of who we are--our crown! How we rock our hair and the visual display matters. Not only culturally in our own community but additionally how we wear our hair truly reflects how the world views and treats us. Messy buns may be a cute style for Sally but if Shaniqua walked into work with her hair untamed she will be called unprofessional and not taken seriously. There a way too many instances of black men and women not being treated fairly, even down to employment opportunities. Our hair matters.

I’m here to let you know that you are not alone sis! As a woman who has lost over 85 pounds naturally, I truly understand the struggles of wanting to get healthier yet wanting to not look crazy as hell during the process. However, I want to stress the importance of still maintaining your health goals even as you are conquering your "go-to" style during your workout days. Always remember, you can walk into any salon, on any day, to fix your hair. Whereas you can't say the same for your health, no matter what gym you walk into, no day's worth of work will change you immediately. So in keeping your goals in mind, here is a quick list of some options you can try to make sure your hair looks fly as ever, even when you’re working out.

5. Protective styles such as braids, weaves, or wigs will be the easiest way to maintain your hairstyle without jeopardizing your health goals. Not only do these choices give you options in styles. But they can be as versatile and beautiful all while keeping your natural hair protected.

4. Skip the bone straight looks and embrace your naturally curly hair. If weaves and wigs aren't your things, try embracing your curls instead. I personally sweat in my scalp after a good workout. That could make it really hard to maintain sleek edges as your hair curls to revert back to a natural state. Already embracing a natural curl during your workout time will help you look amazing and easily style your hair during its natural state.

3. Schedule your workouts around your already scheduled wash days and hair appointments. Meaning, if you typically wash your hair every Saturday get that good workout in on Friday evening or Saturday morning that way you stay on a routine yet you still prioritize your health.

2. You gotta stay ready! Come to the gym with your hair prepped for success. Utilizing products like do-rags, bonnets, or stylish products like Nicole Ari Parker's Gym Wrap will keep your hair protected and will illuminate the moisture that will naturally hit your roots helping you keep your defined style. Pro tip: if you decide to wrap your hair before a good work out, make sure you use the cool setting up your blow dryer to gently dry your hair before unwrapping. If you try to unwrap while your hair is still damp, Sis, your style will not be Poppin!

1. Make sure your hair is a part of your wellness and health routine. Considering how much you may naturally sweat and your hair you may need to bump up your wash days. Make sure you were nourishing your locks with ACV, quality shampoos, deep conditioners, and hair masks. 

With a full plan in place, you can definitely ensure that you have a gorgeous look and style even when you are working out. Skip the heat! You don't want to overwork your flat iron during this time and end up with a cute waistline and scraggly hair. Since you are skipping the heat, eating clean, drinking water, and minding yo business-- you may also notice hair growth, hair retention, and less shedding during this time. Embrace it, Sis! You are absolutely beautiful regardless of how you decide to manage your hair. You are taking the necessary steps to create health goals that are a priority. Here's to your success!

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