Maintaining a healthy life shouldn’t come at the cost of your beauty and style. If you are someone who loves both long nails and exercising, you likely believe you can’t have both of them together. Many of you think your long-ass press-on nails will crack or pop off if you work out or lift weights. Some are also scared of scratches caused by long and pointy nails or even infections.
How to Lift With Long Nails?
What if we tell you that it is possible to maintain your press-ons with an active lifestyle? Win-win, isn’t it?
Here’s a complete guide to understanding workout limitations with long nails and what you can do to continue having your beautiful press-on nails even if you are a gym freak.
What are Press-On Nails?
Press-on nails are ready-made false nail enhancements you can use in your at-home manicures. These are pre-designed, stick-on acrylic nail tips that serve as a great alternative to salon nail extensions in terms of appearance and durability. If you are someone who loves DIYing your manicure at home, press-ons can be your best bet against traditional nail polishes.
Workout Limitations with Long Press-On Nails
It is generally considered a myth that you cannot work out with long nails or acrylic nail enhancements. Yes, it is difficult to protect your long claws from cracking or popping off, but it isn’t impossible. All you need to do is choose an appropriate length and shape so you can carry it comfortably without any interference in your physical activities.
However, it is not a complete lie. There are chances that your press-on nails will be uncomfortable and prone to breakages if you don’t take proper care during your gym sessions and weight lifting.
1) The easiest way is to opt for short to medium lengths for your press-ons. This can be a win-win situation for all your physical chores and not just exercising. There are many problems people generally face with long nails and working out is just one of them. Instead, if you opt for manageable lengths, you can make life easier for you.
2) Also, avoid sharp edges and opt for shapes like almonds and ovals to prevent cracking and breaking. If your nails have too many edges or are pointed, there are high chance you may scratch yourself or someone else in the gym and that can be scary! Go for versatile and natural-looking press-ons to make them durable.
3) The safety and longevity of your press-ons also depend on how well you’ve applied them. Using the right glue in the correct proportion is key to stronger and more durable nails across all your physical activities. There is a high chance your press-on nails will pop off while you’re lifting weights or doing your cardio if you haven’t glued them properly.
4) If you’re sure of all the precautionary measures, then too you should protect your nails during your workouts. It is wise to wrap your nails with tape as an added precaution, especially when you are lifting weights or engaging with any heavy machinery.
Preparing for a Gym Session with Press-On Nails
Before hitting the gym, prep your press-on nails correctly to ensure a safe experience with your workout.
1) As mentioned above, choose the right nail shape and size to minimize the risk of breakages or hurting. Ensure comfort and flexibility to withstand the pressure of physical activities. This is also quite relevant to sizing your press-ons correctly during application. If the nail tips are bigger or smaller than your natural nail beds, there will be discomfort and risks during exercise.
2) Consider wearing gloves and covering your long-ass nails before indulging in heavy weight-lifting to protect them. Gloves will provide a cushion and reduce the stress on your press-ons. You may also coat a layer of added strength by putting on a top coat over your press-on nails before going to the gym. Don’t do this every day but the initial 2-3 layers of top coat will provide exceptional support to your long nails even if they’ve grown out.
Post-Workout Nail Care
After your hardcore session at the gym, indulge in post-workout nail upkeep and maintenance to ensure longevity and prevent infections.
1) Wash or sanitize your hands properly and make them completely dry to prevent fungal buildup. Be extra clean about the space under your press-ons and around your cuticles.
2) Consider getting your manicures done or DIYing them regularly to maintain hygiene. Regularly wipe your nails with acetone-free nail polish remover.
3) Actively keep your nails in good condition to ensure their longevity and upkeep natural nail health.
4) Check for any gaps or lifting in your press-ons. If there is a small gap, fill it with nail glue and seal it with a top coat. For significant lifting, consider removing your press-ons carefully, storing them properly, and reapplying them after a day or two.
5) Avoid moisture accumulation and keep your nails dry to prevent infections.
Tips to Maintain Your Press-Ons with an Active Lifestyle
You need to keep certain things in mind for maintaining your press-ons if you wear them regularly and for longer durations along with having an active lifestyle daily.
1) Ensure proper nail prep and a strong natural nail base before applying press-on nails to avoid future hassles.
2) Invest in good-quality, handmade press-on nails. Instead of getting tempted by cheap drugstore products, look for salon-made customized press-ons made using good acrylic tips and quality nail gels.
3) Look for good-quality, strong nail glues. Opt for liquid nail glue rather than adhesive tabs. Properly apply the glue in the right amount every time.
4) Think practical and realistic when choosing the length and shape of your press-ons for a comfortable and safe workout.
5) Always carry your press-on nail kit in your gym bag. Have a nail glue and some extra tips handy along with a nail file and nail buffer. This will save you from accidental pop-offs or lifting of your press-ons.
Wrapping Up
Hitting the gym with press-on nails can be a nail-biting experience! But armed with the right knowledge, you can confidently lift, run, and stretch without fear of losing a nail or two. Understanding the limitations of long nails during workouts is key to avoiding potential mishaps and enjoying your fitness routine to the fullest. Whether you opt for shorter press-ons, choose styles that offer flexibility, or simply take extra precautions, your nails can complement your workout rather than hinder it. So, lace up those sneakers, grab your gym bag, and let your press-on nails add a touch of glamour to your next sweat session!
