15 Best Running Hairstyles for Long Hair You’ll Love

Key Takeaways

Master these proven hairstyles to eliminate mid-run hair distractions and focus entirely on your performance.

• Secure with multiple elastics: Use 2-3 hair ties for ponytails and 4-7 for buns to prevent loosening during intense workouts • Test styles during training: Never try a new hairstyle on race day – practice your chosen style during long training runs first • Choose braids for maximum security: French braids, Dutch braids, and fishtail braids distribute weight evenly and stay put longer than regular ponytails • Position matters for comfort: High styles keep hair off sweaty necks, while low braids work perfectly with running hats and caps • Add headbands for flyaway control: Sports headbands absorb sweat and tame baby hairs that escape during movement

The key to successful running hairstyles lies in finding the right balance between security and comfort for your specific hair type and running conditions. Whether you choose a simple high ponytail or an elaborate braided bun, proper technique and quality hair accessories will keep your locks locked down mile after mile.

Have you ever been midway through a run when your long hair decides to completely rebel? Finding running hairstyles for long hair that actually stay put has been my personal mission ever since I started hitting the trails years ago.

As a runner with thick, long hair, I know that comfort and stability are essential for any hairstyle that’s going to last through miles of pavement pounding. A hairstyle that becomes loose mid-run can be a frustrating and unwelcome distraction! Plus, who wants stray hair getting sweat all over their face or poking into their eyes while you’re trying to focus on your form? The best running hairstyles aren’t just about looking cute (though that’s definitely a bonus) – they’re about allowing you to perform at your best without constantly adjusting your hair.

That’s why I’ve put together this collection of 15 no-slip hairstyles specifically for us long-haired runners. From simple summer styles that keep hair manageable to more elaborate braids that stay secure during your longest runs, these options combine function with style. Whether you have thick, layered, or particularly stubborn hair, I promise you’ll find something here that works for your next run.

High Ponytail

The classic high ponytail remains a go-to hairstyle for many runners with long locks, including myself. Throughout my years as both a stylist and avid runner, I’ve discovered that this simple style offers much more than meets the eye — especially if you know how to secure it properly.

High Ponytail benefits for long hair

High ponytails excel at keeping your hair completely off your neck and face during intense workouts. For those of us with lengthy locks, this positioning prevents that uncomfortable sensation of hair sticking to a sweaty back. Furthermore, a properly positioned high ponytail effectively sweeps back those annoying flyaways and bangs that constantly try to escape during a run.

I’ve found that high ponytails create that satisfying swinging motion that many runners enjoy — there’s something oddly motivating about feeling your ponytail bounce in rhythm with your stride! However, be aware that wearing your hair in the same tight ponytail repeatedly can stress your follicles over time. Consequently, it’s wise to alternate your hairstyles to prevent potential thinning or breakage.

How to secure a High Ponytail

The key to a no-slip high ponytail lies in proper technique:

1. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove tangles
2. Flip your head upside down to gather all hair at the crown
3. Secure with a strong elastic, pulling hair through completely on first wraps
4. On the final wrap, only pull hair partially through for extra security
5. Add a second hair tie an inch down if you have particularly slippery hair

In my experience, many runners underestimate the importance of quality hair ties. Instead of basic elastics, invest in seamless designs that grip without damaging your hair. Additionally, positioning matters — ensure your ponytail sits at the crown of your head rather than mid-head for optimal staying power.

High Ponytail for thick hair

Those blessed (or sometimes cursed!) with thick hair face unique challenges. My client Elsa once complained about her thick ponytail feeling too heavy and always slipping during marathons. Together, we discovered that for thicker hair types, using multiple smaller elastics rather than one large band provides better distribution of weight and grip.

Moreover, if you’re struggling with a ponytail that constantly loosens, try texturizing spray at the roots before styling. For extremely thick hair, consider a hybrid approach — secure your high ponytail first, then braid the tail itself to prevent it from whipping against your neck. This technique combines security with comfort, perfect for those longer training runs.

Braided Ponytail

As someone who has styled countless runners’ hair, I’ve discovered that a braided ponytail elevates the traditional style into something truly functional for serious athletes. After years of experimentation, this hybrid style has become my personal favorite recommendation for clients who need their hair to stay put mile after mile.

Why Braided Ponytail stays put

The braided ponytail offers remarkable stability compared to a regular ponytail. First, the braiding technique distributes tension evenly throughout your hair strands rather than concentrating it in one spot. According to Joy Kim, an avid runner and triathlete with fine, color-treated hair, “Wearing braids puts less stress on hair while running. Most runners who put their hair in high ponies have experienced hair breakage around the area where the elastic goes”.

Likewise, the interwoven pattern of a braid creates natural friction between strands, preventing that annoying gradual slippage that happens with regular ponytails. Even with fine hair, a braided ponytail stays secure because the woven structure essentially locks your hair in place.

How to braid your ponytail

Creating a perfect braided ponytail is surprisingly straightforward:

• Secure your ponytail at your desired height with a strong elastic
• Divide the ponytail into three equal sections
• Cross the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle
• Continue this pattern until you reach the end
• Secure with a small, tight elastic at the bottom

One crucial tip I learned from my client Elsa—whose thick hair constantly escaped during marathons—always wrap that end elastic tight enough. Otherwise, as she discovered during her training for a major race, “before you know it, your hair will be flapping in the wind and the ponytail holder back a few miles on the road behind you!”

Braided Ponytail for long runs

For endurance running, the braided ponytail truly excels. Throughout my career, I’ve found this style perfectly balances security with comfort. Unlike tight buns that can cause headaches, a braided ponytail distributes weight evenly while preventing annoying hair-to-neck contact during those sweaty long runs.

Many runners tell me they prefer positioning their braided ponytail lower for extended sessions. As one runner explained, “I have thick long hair and this has been my go-to: pull hair back low and tie into a low ponytail and then braid the ponytail”. This approach minimizes bounce and strain on your scalp, making it ideal for marathon training.

For those blessed with particularly thick hair, consider the “double braided ponytail” variation—an easy solution for long runs that provides maximum security through the added structure.

Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids changed my running experience completely! After years of battling with various hairstyles, I discovered this game-changing option that offers unmatched security for long-distance runners.

Double Dutch Braids for stability

Double Dutch braids differ from regular braids primarily in technique—they’re essentially inverted French braids where you cross strands under rather than over the middle section, creating a braid that “pops out”. This technique offers exceptional stability for several reasons.

First, Dutch braids provide double security by dividing hair into two separate braids. My client Elsa Claire, who coaches marathon runners, swears by them for her athletes with thick hair. “With two braids, your hair is doubly secured against movement,” she explains.

Even better, these braids distribute weight evenly across your head, reducing strain on your scalp. This balance is crucial during those longer training runs when every bit of comfort matters.

How to create Double Dutch Braids

Creating perfect Dutch braids requires practice, yet the results are worth every minute:

1. Start with a clean middle part from forehead to nape
2. Secure one side with a hair tie while working on the other
3. Begin with three small sections near your forehead
4. Cross strands under the middle section (this creates the raised braid effect)
5. Continue braiding, adding small sections from outside as you go
6. Secure each finished braid with strong elastics

One key tip I learned from Elsa is keeping the braid extremely tight while styling. “Sometimes I will braid all the hair in front of my ear and take smaller sections, pulling it super tight while braiding”. This technique ensures maximum security.

Best products for Double Dutch Braids

For truly no-slip Dutch braids, the right products make all the difference. A good braid spray like African Pride Original Braid Sheen helps add shine and prevents itching. I recommend applying it once daily to maintain freshness.

For runners with dry scalps, Elsa suggests using Tea Tree Oil as needed to prevent irritation. Edge control products can also help tame those stubborn baby hairs that escape during intense workouts.

Most importantly, never skip protecting your braids at night! Using a satin bonnet prevents premature frizzing, allowing this style to remain race-ready for days.

French Braid

French braids have been my faithful running companion throughout countless miles on the road. First and foremost, this classic style offers remarkable versatility that few other running hairstyles can match.

French Braid for long hair

What makes the French braid ideal for runners with long hair is its ability to distribute weight evenly across your head. Unlike regular ponytails that concentrate weight in one spot, a French braid keeps everything securely in place without causing headaches or scalp pain.

My client Elsa Claire, who runs marathons with hair down to her waist, swears by French braids. “It’s not even that my hair gets tangled. It’s that when it gets sweaty it slaps my back and tickles! It drives me crazy. I’ll do a French braid, bun, or just a high braid and that helps,” she explained after struggling with other styles.

For those with particularly thick tresses, a French braid feels remarkably lighter on your head. Plus, pigtail French braids allow more air to reach your scalp, providing welcome relief when wind blows against your neck.

How to do a French Braid

Creating a perfect French braid may seem daunting initially, yet it’s surprisingly manageable with practice:

1. Start with a small section at the front of your scalp
2. Divide this section into three equal strands
3. Begin crossing the outer strands over the middle one
4. As you continue braiding, gradually add small sections of hair from each side
5. Secure the end with a strong elastic

One secret I learned after years of styling runners’ hair: don’t look in a mirror! As odd as it sounds, many runners find that trying to French braid while looking in a mirror actually complicates the process.

French Braid for humid weather

Humid conditions present unique challenges for runners with long hair. Thankfully, French braids excel in taming frizz and keeping everything neat regardless of weather conditions.

After witnessing countless clients struggle with humidity-induced hair disasters, I now recommend French braids as a reliable solution. They minimize exposure of hair strands to moisture in the air, maintaining your style throughout even the sweatiest runs.

On particularly humid days, consider applying a light anti-frizz serum before braiding. This additional step creates a protective barrier against moisture without weighing down your braid.

Fishtail Braid

Looking for a braid that combines elegance with durability? The fishtail braid has become my secret weapon for longer runs. This intricate-looking style might seem complex at first glance, yet it’s surprisingly manageable even for beginners.

Fishtail Braid for runners

First and foremost, fishtail braids stay secure throughout even the most intense workouts. They’re naturally tighter than regular braids, making them much less likely to loosen up or fall out during your run. In fact, many of my clients choose fishtails specifically for their staying power.

My client Elsa Claire, who trains for marathons regularly, struggled with her hair coming loose mid-run until she discovered fishtails. “The fishtail braid is practically prom-worthy, yet tight enough to withstand a tempo,” she told me after her first race wearing one.

Even better, this style is comfortable enough to sleep on—perfect for those early morning runs! Simply fishtail your hair the night before and skip washing afterward for that same beautiful post-run wave as a French braid, but without the pressure on your scalp.

How to do a Fishtail Braid

Creating a fishtail might look challenging, but it’s actually quite straightforward:

• Start by gathering your hair as if making a low ponytail, slightly off to one side
• Divide this hair into two equal sections
• Take a small piece (about quarter-inch) from the outside of one section
• Cross this piece over to join the opposite section
• Repeat on the other side, alternating back and forth
• Continue until you reach the end, then secure with a hair tie

The secret? Keeping one finger in the middle of the braid helps maintain its structure throughout the process.

Fishtail Braid for thick hair

For those blessed with thick tresses, fishtail braids work exceptionally well. They’re particularly suited for regular to thick, wavy hair types, helping manage volume without sacrificing style.

Alternatively, try a fishtail bun—simply wrap your completed fishtail around the base of your ponytail for a secure style that’s race-day ready. As a bonus, this variation minimizes the knotting and bunching that often happens in inclement weather.

For thick hair that lacks texture, Elsa recommends using a texturizing product before braiding. “Something like a texturizing mist adds defined texture and gives your hair that beachy feel,” she explains, which ultimately helps the braid grip better and last longer.

Braided Bun

For serious distance runners, a braided bun offers unbeatable security that flat-out eliminates hair distractions. This style has saved countless training sessions for my clients with thick, long locks.

Why Braided Buns are secure

Braided buns excel precisely because they combine two secure elements—the stability of braids with the compact nature of buns. Primarily, they prevent that annoying “bun wobble” that happens during intense workouts. Undoubtedly, runners with layers benefit most, as this style keeps shorter front pieces contained that might escape from regular ponytails.

My client Elsa struggled with thick, waist-length hair until we discovered her perfect solution: “I have really long, thick hair and do a braided bun. It sounds complicated but is easy once you get used to it. In high school I did it every day during my last class to get ready for softball practice”.

How to create a Braided Bun

Creating this no-slip style requires minimal tools:

• Start with a ponytail at your preferred height
• Braid the ponytail—a simple three-strand works perfectly
• Secure the end with an elastic
• Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail
• Secure with bobby pins or additional hair ties

For extra-thick hair, try the double-braid variation: “Braid hair into two french braids, rubberband together in the back of your head, then wrap the braids around the center rubber band to make a bun”.

Braided Bun for race day

Race day demands hairstyles that won’t distract from performance. Despite looking elaborate, braided buns actually require zero adjustments mid-race.

Even with helmet wearing, this style stays put: “It stayed without issue for practice, games, etc., even with putting on and taking off my helmet”.

Finally, heed this valuable race-day advice: “Test race hair before the race, just like you would a new running shoe. You have to make sure it’s comfortable for you!”.

Top Knot

The top knot stands out as my simplest yet most reliable running hairstyle. Typically, after creating countless styles for clients, I return to this classic option for my own training sessions.

Top Knot for long hair

A top knot positions your hair securely on the crown of your head, simultaneously keeping it off your neck and face. For those of us blessed with lengthy locks, this style prevents that irritating sensation of sweaty hair sticking to your back or shoulders. My client Elsa, a marathon runner with extremely thick hair, switched to top knots after experiencing hair slapping against her back during races.

How to secure a Top Knot

Creating a no-slip top knot requires minimal effort:

• Brush hair thoroughly to remove tangles
• Create a high ponytail on the crown of your head
• Twist the ponytail around itself into a bun shape
• Secure with 4-5 thick elastic bands
• Add a giant hair clip for extra stability

For fuller-looking top knots, gently pull the bun with your fingers to create volume.

Top Knot for sweaty runs

Throughout years of styling runners’ hair, I’ve noticed top knots excel during intense workouts. Bobby pins along the front help manage those pesky baby hairs. For maximum security, don’t be afraid to use multiple hair ties – two twisted around the base generally provides reliable hold even during marathon training.

Low Bun with Headband

If you’re a hat-wearing runner like me, you’ll appreciate the game-changing combination of a low bun with headband. This duo has saved countless bad hair days during my training sessions in various weather conditions.

Low Bun for hat wearers

Hats and long hair often seem incompatible until you discover the low bun technique. Primarily, this style works because you can pull your hair into a low bun that sits perfectly through the hole in the back of your baseball cap. My client Elsa Claire struggled with this exact issue until we created a solution – placing the bun low enough where the hair meets the neck prevents any movement whatsoever.

How to pair with a headband

Creating this foolproof combination requires minimal effort:

• Pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
• Twist the ponytail and wrap it into a neat bun
• Secure with multiple bobby pins (I recommend 4-5)
• Add a sports headband to manage bangs and flyaways

The headband serves double duty by keeping sweat from dripping into your eyes – an added bonus on those extra sweaty days. Notably, bamboo headbands offer breathability during long work sessions.

Low Bun for sunny runs

For sunny outings, this combination offers multiple benefits. The hat shields your face from harsh rays while the low bun keeps hair completely off your neck. Even better, this style creates a “burpee-proof” solution that Elsa swears by for both running and high-intensity classes.

For those with particularly thick hair, consider the double bun variation – dividing your hair into pigtail buns solves problems for both fine and heavy hair types whose weight can pull single buns loose.

Jasmine Ponytail

Ever had your ponytail turn into a tangled mess after a run? The Jasmine ponytail solved this problem for me and many of my clients.

What is a Jasmine Ponytail

The Jasmine ponytail is a clever variation of the classic ponytail, featuring multiple elastics placed along the length of your hair. This princess-inspired style keeps your hair pulled back and out of your face yet still allows for some movement. Most importantly, it prevents tangling because those extra elastics keep your hair straight and firmly in place.

How to do a Jasmine Ponytail

Creating this style takes minimal effort:

• Secure your hair into a low ponytail at the base of your neck
• Add additional hair ties along the length of your ponytail
• Space them as close as needed – every inch or two works well for easily tangled hair
• Adjust the spacing based on your hair’s tendency to tangle

My client Elsa once struggled with fine hair that knotted terribly after her marathon training runs. “I’d spend an hour detangling afterward,” she told me. After trying the Jasmine ponytail, she never went back to regular styles for long runs.

Jasmine Ponytail for layered hair

This hairstyle is perfect for runners with layers! The multiple elastics secure your hair wherever layers might typically escape. For those with shorter pieces around the face, start with a slightly higher ponytail. Even through intense training, this style keeps every layer contained without constant readjustment.

You can even personalize this style using colorful elastics that match your running outfit. This makes it both functional for serious training and visually appealing for race day photos.

Space Buns

Space buns have become my unexpected favorite for both casual training runs and race days. These twin buns offer a perfect blend of playfulness and practicality that makes running with long hair so much more enjoyable.

Space Buns for fun and function

Space buns are characterized by two buns placed symmetrically on either side of a central part, typically positioned high on the head. Their popularity stems from their unique combination of retro-cool and futuristic vibes. Beyond esthetics, they serve a practical purpose by keeping hair completely off your face and neck, preventing that uncomfortable sticky feeling during intense workouts.

My client Sarah once complained about her hair constantly falling into her eyes during marathon training. After trying space buns, she was amazed by how they stayed put through 15 miles without a single adjustment!

How to do Space Buns

Creating this style is straightforward:

• Part your hair down the middle from forehead to nape
• Create two high pigtails on either side
• Twist each pigtail firmly from base to ends
• Wrap each twisted section around its base to form a bun
• Secure with bobby pins, inserting them with the ridged side facing your scalp
• Finish with hairspray for all-day hold

Space Buns for long thick hair

For runners blessed with thick, lengthy locks, Elsa Claire suggests a modification: “After creating your pigtails, braid each one before coiling it into a bun. This contains the length while creating a more compact, secure style that won’t loosen during your run.”

Classic Braid

Sometimes simplicity wins the race. Among all running hairstyles for long hair, the classic braid remains a steadfast option that I regularly recommend to clients overwhelmed by complex styling techniques.

Classic Braid for simplicity

The standard three-strand braid might seem basic, yet it’s remarkably effective. As one runner explained to me, “Don’t downplay the role of the standard braid”. Indeed, this style keeps hair off the neck, helping you feel cooler throughout your run.

My client Elsa Claire once arrived at my studio frustrated after attempting elaborate braids for her marathon. Together, we discovered that sometimes the simplest solution works best – her classic braid stayed put through her entire race!

How to do a Classic Braid

Creating this style takes minimal effort:

• Pull hair into a low ponytail
• Secure with a hair tie
• Divide into three equal sections
• Cross outer sections over the middle alternately
• Continue to the end and secure with another elastic

Classic Braid for windy days

For windy conditions, braids excel as protective styles. They keep long strands away from your face, allowing you to maintain focus on your performance. Fortunately, even a simple braid can be pinned to the side with just a few clips, creating a striking yet functional look that withstands gusty training days.

Bubble Braid

Bubble braids revolutionized my approach to styling runners’ hair. This playful yet functional style has quickly become a favorite among my marathon-running clients.

Bubble Braid for secure style

Primarily, bubble braids excel because they’re practically foolproof. Despite the name, they aren’t actually braids at all but ponytails with “bubbles” of hair separated by hair ties. My client Elsa Claire struggled with her thick hair escaping during marathon training until we discovered bubble braids—they stayed put even through her 20-mile training runs!

How to do a Bubble Braid

Creating this style is straightforward:

• Start with a ponytail at your preferred height
• Move about 1-2 inches down and secure another elastic
• Gently pull apart the hair between elastics to create your first “bubble”
• Continue adding elastics and fluffing sections until you reach the ends

For extra security, use small, tight elastics rather than loose scrunchies. Fortunately, second or third-day hair works best as it has more grip.

Bubble Braid for long runs

Although simple-looking, bubble braids withstand even the most intense workouts. As one runner noted, “You could try a bubble braid. That’s what I do with a low pony”. For extremely long hair, consider the braided bubble braid variation—it combines the security of both styles for ultimate hold.

Messy Bun

The messy bun earns its place among my favorite running hairstyles primarily because it’s deceivingly effective. As someone who coaches marathon runners, I’ve found this seemingly casual style can actually withstand serious miles.

Messy Bun that stays put

The key to a no-slip messy bun lies in strategic anchoring. Unlike traditional buns, a proper running messy bun uses multiple elastics—typically 7-10 hair ties for thick hair. My client Elsa once complained about her bun falling apart mid-marathon, so we developed a system using multiple hair ties to “basically plaster it to the back of her head”. Frankly, this style works best positioned high on your head, keeping sweaty hair completely off your neck.

How to secure a Messy Bun

For ultimate security:

• Create a high ponytail with 2-3 hair ties
• Twist ponytail and wrap into a bun
• Secure with 4-7 additional elastics around different sections
• Add spiral hair pins instead of straight pins for better grip
• Optional: use an octopus clip for extra security

Messy Bun for short layers

Short layers ordinarily escape traditional styles. For clients with this challenge, I recommend positioning your bun slightly off-center for a whimsical look that actually helps contain flyaways. Alternatively, use a giant hair clip (sometimes called an “octopus clip”) to capture those shorter pieces, creating a secure style that stays put even through burpees and sprints.

Ponytail with Headband

Adding a headband to your ponytail creates a powerful duo that tackles multiple running hair problems at once. After testing countless hairstyles on my marathon clients, I’ve found this combination offers exceptional practicality.

Why add a headband

Headbands serve multiple crucial functions beyond just looking cute. Primarily, they absorb sweat before it drips into your eyes, especially during intense training sessions. As a matter of fact, a good running headband locks down those pesky flyaways and baby hairs that constantly escape during movement.

My friend Elsa Claire discovered this solution after struggling with sweat-drenched runs. “Belle, my eyes sting so badly from sweat dripping down my forehead,” she complained after a particularly humid marathon. Once she added a proper sports headband to her routine, she reported the difference was immediate.

How to style with a headband

Creating this practical combination is straightforward:

• Pull hair into your preferred ponytail height
• Position your headband half on your hairline and half behind it for maximum effectiveness
• Ensure the headband sits comfortably without digging in
• Secure any remaining flyaways with bobby pins if needed

Underneath, the ponytail still gives you that satisfying bounce while the headband works overtime keeping everything neat.

Ponytail with Headband for flyaways

For runners with fine hair or stubborn flyaways, this style offers perfect control. Sports-specific headbands often feature plastic-like tread on the underside, preventing slipping even during sweaty sessions. Coupled with a secure ponytail, even the most wispy bangs stay controlled throughout your longest runs.

Running Hat with Low Braid

For years I struggled to find a hairstyle that worked with my favorite running hats until I discovered the perfect combination: the hat with low braid. This duo has changed the game for many of my clients with long hair.

Why a hat helps

Admittedly, hats serve as more than just stylish accessories for runners. They offer crucial protection against sun exposure, preventing potential scalp burns and hair damage. Throughout my career, I’ve noticed runners with long hair particularly benefit from hats that feature adjustable closures, which help keep ponytails secure.

Specialized “ponytail hats” now feature dedicated holes that allow for effortless management of long hair during runs. These innovative designs significantly reduce hair tangling and friction, enhancing overall comfort.

How to style under a hat

Styling hair under a running hat requires minimal effort:

• Brush hair thoroughly to remove tangles
• Create a low braid at the nape of your neck
• Position the braid to fit through the hat’s back opening
• Adjust hat for comfort, ensuring hair doesn’t pull

Low Braid for hat compatibility

The low braid works exceptionally well with hats primarily due to its positioning. My client Elsa Claire once complained about her thick hair not fitting under her favorite running cap. Together we discovered that low braids sit perfectly through the opening in baseball caps, subsequently eliminating her frustration.

This combination offers dual benefits – the hat shields your face from harsh rays while the low braid keeps hair completely contained and tangle-free.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect hairstyle for your runs should never feel like a marathon itself! Throughout my years as both a runner and stylist, I’ve learned that what works for one person’s hair might not work for another. Undoubtedly, each of these 15 styles offers unique benefits depending on your hair type, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences.

My journey with running hairstyles began much like yours might have – with frustration and constantly readjusting my ponytail every few minutes. Elsa Claire, my client who trains for marathons, once arrived at my studio with her thick hair completely tangled after a 15-mile training run. Together, we experimented with several styles until we discovered her perfect match: a braided bun that stayed put mile after mile.

Remember that the perfect running hairstyle balances security with comfort. French braids work wonderfully for humid days, while bubble braids offer a playful yet functional alternative for those wanting something different. Space buns might become your go-to for summer runs, whereas braided ponytails could be your winter savior under beanies.

Though these styles might seem complicated at first glance, they become second nature with practice. Start with simpler options like the classic braid or high ponytail before attempting fishtail braids or Dutch braids. Additionally, quality hair accessories make all the difference – invest in strong elastics, bobby pins that actually grip, and headbands that stay put.

Most importantly, test your chosen hairstyle during training before race day! Nothing ruins your concentration more than hair problems mid-race. Elsa learned this lesson the hard way during her first marathon when her hastily done ponytail came loose at mile 18.

Regardless of which style you choose, the goal remains the same: keeping your hair secure so you can focus entirely on your run. After all, running is challenging enough without fighting with flyaways every step of the way!

Which of these styles will you try on your next run? Trust me, your long hair (and your running times) will thank you!