The Dos and Don’ts of Gym Etiquette

I’m sure you have been to the gym a million times and there always seems to be that one guy or girl who becomes the center of attention. From grunting while lifting to talking your ear off when you’re already rushed for time. I am a personal trainer (which means I am at the gym all day and get to witness each and every act of poor gym etiquette) and I have seen everything under the moon. Is it really that hard to put your headphones on and hit the cardio, weights, and then shower without causing a scene? Well, for some people it is. Below are the top gym dos and don’ts!

Top 5 Gym Don’ts

1. No grunting please: If the weight is really that heavy, you probably need to use less weight before you hurt yourself or someone else.
2. No cell phones: The majority of people go to the gym to exercise and get away from the world for a little bit. The last thing they want to hear is an annoying cell phone ring or someone on the next machine yapping on the phone.
3. No children please: Seriously, who wants little children running around the gym and causing a disaster? It can be a danger to them and other gym goers. That’s what the nursery is for; please take advantage of it.
4. No long conversations: Everyone is at the gym for one reason – to exercise. Keep your conversations to a minimum so that everyone can workout and then get on with their lives.
5. No “borrowing” trainers: Most trainers are at the gym working with paying customers; so their attention is focused on them. If you have a question or need a spot, find a trainer who is not busy and ask them, they should be more than willing to help.

Top 5 Gym Dos

1. Clean machine/equipment after usage: Please wipe off the sweat and tears from the machines/equipment after you use them. This will help prevent the spread of germs and such.
2. Respect the equipment: Please re-rack your weights and put back your equipment. This will help keep the weight room clean and will help out the next person tremendously.
3. Be courteous to others: Ask before jumping on a machine and vice-versa; don’t be a machine hog.
4. Dress appropriately: Please wear non-revealing workout clothes. This goes for both males and females of all shapes and sizes. If you want to show off your goods, go to the beach or the local pool.
5. Hygiene: Good hygiene is a must – before and after your workout. No one wants to be running next to someone on the treadmill with horrible body odor. Exercising is hard enough by itself, let alone having to breath someone else’s unclean scent.