As a fitness enthusiast, the first thing I look for when I move to a new area is a gym. I have been to several gyms, and I have seen some things that drive me crazy with rage, especially when it comes to being orderly and neat. It does not sit well with me when I find a 5 lb plate where the 45 lb plate is supposed to be. I always feel that simple courtesy goes a long way.
Surely, leaving things how they were or better than we found them will not hurt. In the gym, etiquette is something every gym user should read into. Being respectful to fellow gym users and observing a little decorum goes a long way even during workouts. Below is an ultimate guide to gym etiquette that we should all strive to follow.
Leave Things As They Initially Were
After working out, it is common sense to return things where we picked them. Such items include the weights, dumbbells, yoga mats, and workbenches. Leaving them lying around could be dangerous; for example, another gym user may trip and injure themselves. Leaving other people to clean up after you is counterproductive to their gym time and a waste of their time and energy. If anyone feels that cleaning up after themselves is a burden, I would advise placing back the dumbbells in their rightful place as a form of workout.
Clean Up After Ourselves
After a workout session, we are bound to get all sweaty. Every piece of equipment that we have been using gets drops of sweat and germs. It is courteous and common sense to wipe down the equipment you have used at the end of the session. This makes it easier for the next person to use the equipment. Also, there will be no cross-contamination in case the first user had any infectious diseases. Just as we would clean up after ourselves in our houses, why not do it at the gym?
Watch the Surroundings
In the gym, there are very many chances of getting badly injured. Before walking to get those dumbbells, scan the surrounding. If a fellow gym user is lifting weights, it’s wise not to pass by their side. Accidents are prone to happen, and one might slide or let go of the weight and get badly injured. It is also important not to move so close to someone working out because we might ruin someone’s sets and rhythm.
Watching one’s surroundings also applies to taking care of the gym equipment. Avoiding dropping heavy equipment protects the floor, walls, and even the gym equipment.
Always Ask
If one is new in the gym, it is possible they are not very familiar with how to use various equipment. Misusing equipment can be hazardous, and one might end up causing more harm than good to themselves and others.
Also, it is important never to assume anything. For example, don’t just pick up and start using equipment from someone. It’s courteous to politely ask the other person if they are done using that machine before just jumping onto it. They might be taking a break, and it will be a big inconvenience if they have to wait or look for another machine.
Personal Space
Unless there is an agreement to work out or spot together, it’s very awkward to be all up in someone’s space. It doesn’t matter if someone is lifting or stretching; I would advise to leave them enough space. Invading someone’s area may end up disrupting their ability to focus, which makes them very uncomfortable. Being mindful of other people’s personal space is crucial because instances of accidents and injuries are minimized.
