Gym etiquette: Things to do (and not do)
People should maintain a consistent level of consideration in most public domains. Working out in a public place can be uncomfortable for a lot of people, but there are things that every gym-goer can do to make sure that everyone has a positive experience.
I have been going to the gym for a number of years, and it’s baffling to see how many inconsiderate people there are out there who have no issues blowing their nose in the water fountain. With that said:
Don’t blow your nose or spit in the water fountain. When I’m filling up my shaker or bottle, I prefer to add my own supplements. While we are on that, if you are filling up a large bottle, let the person who just needs to quickly hydrate in front.
Do put your weights away when you are done using a machine. Yes, we’re all impressed that you can squat 200 kilos, but if you pick up 10 plates, then put away 10 plates. Not only is this considerate, but also safer.
Don’t use two machines at once. Use one machine at a time. While it can be annoying waiting for someone taking their time on one machine, putting your towel down on one machine while you use another is quiet disrespectful.
Do share equipment. If someone is waiting for you, don’t be afraid to offer them the machine in between rest periods.
Don’t sit on your phone. If I’m waiting for you to finish on a machine, and you’re sitting there for extended periods of time taking selfies, my faith in humanity will die.
Do wipe your sweat off the equipment. Most gyms require you to take a towel for this very reason, and many actually have spray there for patrons to disinfect the area. If I sit on a machine and my shorts get wet, it’ll be one of the rare occasions where I actually hope I’ve had an accident.
Don’t give random people unsolicited advice. Unless they ask you for it, you’re a trainer, or you see someone literally about to die, leave the advice to the professionals. It doesn’t make you look informed, it makes other people defensive, and if you get it wrong, you will be culpable.
Do ask for help. If you’re struggling or worried you might hurt yourself, don’t be afraid to ask someone who works there for advice on how certain machines work. That’s what they are there for.
Don’t take your shirt off. This actually happens more often than people think. Aside from the fact that your already-bad smell just became worse, it makes you look very insecure. Leave the window posing for the bedroom.
Do wear thongs in the bathroom. If people spit in water fountains and leave their sweat on equipment, imagine the kind of things they do in showers and toilets.
Don’t try and pick up. Now this one is mostly aimed at men, and although I haven’t seen it myself, I’m sure women can be guilty of this too. The gym can be a great place to meet someone with similar interests, but be warned, it’s easy to get a reputation as a creep.
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