Gym Etiquette

Ahh yes, the gym! 

It’s a place to go to burn off steam, get your frustrations out, and focus on YOU. 

When you’re there you feel like it’s all yours, you own it and you get in the zone but we all have to remember the place we love so much is a shared space. There are written and unwritten rules to gym etiquette. Following these guidelines means a more enjoyable experience for everyone. So let’s do our best to remember the rules.

Equipment and space is shared.

If the gym is quite and space is available, feel free to circuit train all you want. If the gym is busy, be prepared to share and let other people use equipment as well.

Clean up after yourself.

Remove weights from bars when done. Put equipment back where you found it and wipe down your space. Be considerate of other members and help keep a clean and safe environment to workout. Putting things where they belong will make it easier for all to find next time.

Minimize cell phone use.

Stay focused and goal oriented. Be present in your workout. Don’t let your cell phone distract you and others from a successful workout.  If you must take a call, please do so in the designated cell phone areas.

Take care of the equipment.

We all want a gym with nice, functioning equipment so remember to not toss weights around, rest dumbbells on upholstery, or damage things in other ways. If you do find machines or equipment that is broken or damaged, please notify staff so it can be fixed in a timely manner.

Be courteous and help out new members.

Remember that we were all a beginner in a gym at some point. Be courteous to others, offer help if needed. Reaching out to others creates a positive and comfortable environment. Don’t be afraid to seek out a trainer or staff member to assist with questions or schedule a personal training session for more one-on-one attention.

Use locker room etiquette.

Some people are completely comfortable with their body and don’t mind walking about in the nude. However, everyone may not feel this way so covering up with your towel on the way to the shower might not be a bad idea.

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Going to the gym is not a fashion or talent show. Appropriate clothing with sufficient coverage is ideal. Safe and clean sneakers are a good idea as well.

Say no to perfume/cologne.

When you’re at the gym working hard, the last thing you want to do is inhale someone’s overwhelming perfume. Some members are overly sensitive and even allergic to fragrances and have to end their workout early.  Please avoid the spray before hitting the fitness center and especially do not spray perfume in the locker rooms.

If you’re sick, take a day off!

Allergies, the flu, bronchitis or whatever it may be, stay home if you’re sneezing, coughing and spreading germs all over. People take germs and their gym equipment seriously.

Blog post by Farran Jalbert.