Going to a gym is an important step in getting fit. For some, walking inside a gym for the first time can be intimidating. When you first signed-up, the salesperson probably went over the membership rules with you. However, it's highly unlikely he told you about proper gym etiquette. Yes, Etiquette is everywhere for everything and the first thing you want to think of when you head to the gym is your etiquette.
Just like you had to learn good table manners as a child, there are also some firm rules to follow for sharing a workout space with others. Even if you feel like you're in your own little world when you're exercising, keep in mind that others are trying to use that space too. Here are some general guidelines that will make your next gym experience pleasant for everyone:
- Share the equipments
A gym is a community, so sharing is required. And no, you can't lay claim to a machine by simply laying your towel on it. If you're doing multiple sets on a machine, it's common courtesy to let others work in during your rest periods. This may not always be practical, but offer to share whenever you can.
- Put your weights away after use in the gym
Nothing is more annoying than weights that are left on the floor. If you put weights on the bar, please take them off when you're done. Leaving dumbbells, bands, exercise balls, and other equipment on the floor is a tripping hazard and makes it difficult for other members to find the equipment they need. Don't assume that the next person who comes along has the ability (or desire) to clean up after you.
- Clean up yourself and the equipments you worked on
Always bring a towel with you and wipe the machines down when you're finished. There's nothing worse than getting covered in someone else's sweat. You don't want to sit in someone else's sweat, so why make them sit in yours? After using any type of equipment at the club, be sure to wipe it off. Also, use a towel to separate yourself from the machine while you make use of it.
- Watch your Body Odor
Everybody smells, especially when they workout. Do yourself and others a favor, and just put a little deodorant on. You can wash it off right after if you don't like it. Be sure to clean your workout clothes on a regular basis. Take a shower after your workout as well.
- Don't drop the weights
When you're finished cranking out a set of dumbbell presses, lay them down like a normal person. Don't just drop them off your shoulders. First, it's dangerous to do so. You don't know if there are any feet or hands that the weight can land on. Second, it's bad for the weights and the floor. Even if your gym has those rubber floors, dropping the weights from great heights will eventually cause some wear and tear. Finally, it is very distracting for others too.
- Proper clothing
Loose clothing is optimal. Clean T-shirts, sweatpants, athletic shorts, and sneakers will do. Please leave the cut-off jean shorts and pajama pants at home. That's just poor gym etiquette.
- Leave the cell phone in the car
One of the most obnoxious things to see at a gym is a person yapping away on their cell phone while walking on the treadmill. Nothing is more annoying than a man whose focus is somewhere else and is also distracting others.
- Respect People's Privacy
It might not seem like a private atmosphere but a lot of people would just rather tune out when they're at the gym. Learn the signs. If someone is reluctant to respond to your conversation with normal social cues of interest, please just leave them be. It's not that they don't like you. Some people just need to be left alone when they are working out.
- Competing
When you compete with the person next to you, you look like a fool! It does not make you any stronger, it does not make you look any better and it doesn't make your workout any more efficient. Do you really think lifting 20 lbs more than the guy next to you matters to anyone?
- No Grunting
If you are lifting heavy weights, focus on proper breathing; you should be exhaling as you contract the muscles and if you do so loudly, that's fine, but no grunting or screaming.
- Don't offer advice
If you are going to help prevent an injury, go ahead, offer tips on proper technique. But unless you are asked, keep your advice to yourself.
Being a newcomer to a health club is tough for anyone, especially when you're not sure how things work. Things will typically go much more smoothly if you take the time to follow the rules and be a pleasant gym-goer.
