It's a new year, and with that comes an increased number of people joining the gym. The gym is a community like any other that requires respect from its members. That being said, if your plans for getting fit this year include a fitness centre, it is time to learn the rules so everyone can have a positive experience. Here is your guide to gym etiquette 101:
#1 Re-Rack
If you use weights, the number one rule is to put them back where you found them. This will spare you the dirty looks from fellow gym-goers.
#2 Take Down Those Plates
If you pulled off a one-rep-max, don't leave the bar that way and let someone else deal with it. It's so annoying and time consuming for other people to have to do your job for you.
#3 Stop Hoarding
Don't walk into the gym and pick up all the equipment you need for your session so no one else can use it. You're gypping people of their workout! Pick up what you need at the time you need it.
#4 Be Polite
Looking for a weight on the rack, only to find someone else is using it? Ask them politely if they are almost finished, or occupy yourself with something else until they complete their set. You can also join them by using the weight while they rest, but make sure to ask first.
#5 Don't Be Messy
Leaving your towel or water bottle lying around is poor gym etiquette. Pick up your things and stay organized.
#6 Maintain Personal Space
Joining someone in a workout means maintaining reasonable personal space. Give them plenty of range of motion to complete their set and feel comfortable.
#7 Move Away From The Rack
Keep a good distance from the rack to let others come and go as they please. Don't hover around the rack!
#8 Don't Chat With People Who Have Headphone On
If someone is wearing headphones while they lift, it's pretty clear they don't want to chat about the weather. Respect their need to workout solo and find someone else to strike up a convo with.
#9 Wipe It Down
Do you sweat a lot? It's essential you wipe down the equipment after using it so you don't spread germs or gross people out.
#10 On The Phone? Keep Quiet
If you like to make business calls or catch up on the latest gossip with a friend while on the treadmill, try not to talk loudly. You may end up disrupting others workout time with your conversation.
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#11 Stay Drama-Free
Don't be that person who dramatically drops their weight after a big set and breathes like a bull just for attention. We know you're smashing your workout, keep it to yourself.
#12 Be Patient
If you're looking to get some pointers from a more experienced gym-goer, wait until they're done their workout. Interrupting people is rude, even if it's well-intentioned.
#13 Don't Be Selfie-Ish
Keep workout snaps and Instagram selfies to a minium. It's just good practice and won't annoy others who are waiting for your equipment.
#14 Put That Phone Away
Phones at the gym are allowed, but they can be super irritating. Especially, if you chill on the equipment and text while others are waiting.
#15 Don't Drop It Like It's Hot
Dropping weights on the floor is disrupting of others workouts and poor etiquette. Place them back neatly where you found them.
#16 Hygiene Is Key
Wash your gym clothes, use deodorant and shower. Enough said.
#17 Stop Checking Yourself Out
Spending too much time looking at your booty in the mirror could distract everyone else.
#18 Keep Your Opinions To Yourself
If you spot someone who is lifting with bad form and could hurt themselves, by all means step in. But giving useless pointers to others is annoying.
#19 Move Along
Keeping people waiting while you fill your entire water bottle at the drinking fountain? So uncalled for.
#20 This Isn't Tinder
For everyone who wants to join the gym to hit on people, you're out of line. The gym is a place where people come to train, not grab a date.
These rules aren't written on the walls, but they are important for getting along in the gym community. Share your pet peeves about the gym with us! What are your top tips for gym etiquette?
Source:
HTV
