Dressing for the Gym as a Hijabi

In the few months since I reverted to Islam, I've made big changes in my wardrobe. Overnight, many pieces I've worn for years became unwearable outside my home and female-only spaces. This especially affected my gym outfits. I maintain an active lifestyle, prioritizing daily exercise and movement. While I don't go to the gym 7 days a week, I need to do some physical activity every day or I just don't feel right in my body. If you want to hear more about going to the gym as a hijabi, check out this article I wrote!

My previous gymwear consisted of pieces on the more modest end of what you'd expect at a typical American gym. Of course, I still wear many of these pieces in the privacy of my dwelling on days I exercise at home. But since reverting, I've made a few swaps and additions to my gym outfits that enable me to continue my active lifestyle! Here are some tips I've picked up that you can implement as well.

1. Get a High Quality Workout Hijab

My go-to workout style is a pull-on instant hijab made of activewear material from Lululemon. I don't need an undercap to wear it, and it stays put through all my activities. It's the style I'm wearing in the main image for this post. I think having an exercise-specific style is necessary for all hijabis!

2. Wear Your Jersey Hijabs

If you don't have an exercise-specific hijab made of activewear material, you can use a jersey hijab! Jersey styles are comfortable and stay in place well for lower-intensity activities. One of my favorite styles is this bamboo jersey hijab in Plum from Veiled Collection. I prefer wearing this style on days I go for long walks because I know I won't be sweating but still need the flexibility and comfort of the soft material.

 3. Ditch the Undercap

You shouldn't be wearing an undercap during your exercise. It will trap in sweat, a total nightmare for your hair and scalp.

I love wearing cotton sweats to the gym, especially coordinating sets. However, I've noticed it's difficult as a woman to find sweats that aren't tight! My #1 tip is don't be afraid to shop the men's section. Many brands make women's sweats fit like leggings, but make nice loose ones with deep pockets for men. Total sexism, but nothing is stopping you from borrowing from the boys. I've also found that men's sweats are always long enough, but women's styles stop at an annoying place above my ankle. If anyone knows brands that make loose womens styles that are long enough and 100% cotton, please email me or DM me on IG!