Let’s face it, gym floors and locker rooms are a little more crowded during January/February and therefore things can get a little bit weird out there. Therefore, we always feel like this is a good time of the year to review gym etiquette, that unwritten code of conduct on how to behave at the gym.
It’s pretty safe to assume we all want some of the same things from our fitness experience... a clean space that we feel comfortable to workout in. Here are some points that may lead to a better shared experience:
Share The Equipment Between Sets. While resting in between sets, allow someone else to “work in” on the machine you’re using. Gyms are crowded, sharing is cool. There will come a time when you need to work in with someone so always make the offer.
Be Nice to the Newbies. This could be an overall lesson in just being nice. Sometimes it comes across that people who are “regulars” at the gym get annoyed with people who are new and still figuring things out. If you fit in this category, then it’s time you go out and try being the new guy somewhere so that you remember how it feels. If someone looks lost, maybe even ask if they need help.
Put Your Personal Belongs in a Locker. The gym is shared space and that space gets tight at times. Jackets, backpacks and snow boots are not only a tripping hazard in the gym but look sloppy and take up unnecessary space. There are locker rooms available for these items. Don’t be lazy, Use them. Also, there is never a need to be eating food in between sets out of a plastic container on the fitness floor.
Being Barefoot is Generally Not OK. So, we don’t mean your socks, we mean full on barefoot. You can see my there would be a hygiene and safety issue walking around a public place like the gym with your toes out. Studio spaces/yoga are a different story.
Clean Up After Yourself. This one should be common sense, unfortunately…. it isn't. Wipe down your cardio machine. Put your towel in the dirty towel bins. Re-rack your weights. Leave the gym in better shape than you found it.
Stop Staring. Whether it’s because someone looks different than you, is really strong, is really weak, is really attractive...whatever it may be, staring can be perceived as rude and can make someone uncomfortable. It’s also pretty embarrassing for a gym employee to have to call you out for making someone feel uncomfortable for being creepy.
Not Everyone Wants to Chat With You. Gyms can be a great place to be social, meet people and find a great community of healthy friends. However, there is a time and place to chat. Not everyone wants to converse in between sets. Just be mindful of the other person. If they are wearing headphones, it is generally an indication that they are not looking for conversation while training.
Stop Giving Unsolicited Advice. Did someone ask you for help on their form? Are you getting paid to give them advice on their form? Leave that for the professionals. Just because you like to go to the gym, doesn’t make you an expert. If you do not fit in these categories, think twice before offering your input to a stranger. If you notice someone performing something with poor form, maybe ask a trainer who works there to help them.
Phone Etiquette In General. A couple different things come to mind with phone use in the gym. The first is a long loud phone conversation. It can be distracting and not everyone wants to hear you fight with your spouse, yell at your kids or make a business deal during their workout. It’s even worse if you’re fielding calls while sitting on a machine or squat rack other people need. You could always take the call in the lobby or outside. Also, the locker room is not a good space to take selfies. No one wants to be the background of your photo while they are getting changed.
Keep in mind that the gym is a shared space where hygiene, and respect for personal privacy and space can help us all have a better experience.