When you head to the gym to get in a workout, you just want to sweat, burn some calories, and come out with some of those feel-good endorphins that come along with getting your heart rate up. However, you may be doing some things that are inconsiderate to that person next to you on the elliptical or waiting for you to get off the phone while using the weights. Here are a few gym no-nos to avoid moving forward.
1. Don’t hog all the equipment – share with your fellow gym-goers!
It’s called common courtesy. Hoarding multiple machines or weights while other people wait is a major gym faux pas. Do a set or two, then move on and let someone else have a turn. Remember, everyone else is trying to get their workout in too. Think of sharing like gaining good workout karma – it’ll come back around to you! Besides, a little rest between sets might even improve your burn.
2. Keep the primal screams to a minimum – we all want to focus.
Everyone appreciates a little grunt of exertion, but constant bellowing or screaming is disruptive and unnecessary. Save those animal noises for when you’re truly pushing your limits, and keep the gym a place where everyone can focus on their workouts. Instead of screaming, channel that energy into another powerful rep! Your muscles will be more impressed with the extra work than the vocal theatrics.
3. Unless someone’s about to hurt themselves, keep your workout tips to yourself.
Unsolicited advice, even if you legitimately mean well, can be annoying and undermine someone’s confidence. If you see genuinely dangerous form, it’s best to alert a gym employee rather than butting in. Otherwise, let people do their thing. Maybe they’re trying a new exercise or just prefer doing things their own way. Unless they’re about to drop a barbell on themselves, keep your training tips to yourself.
4. Wipe down your sweat – it’s basic hygiene.
No one wants to use a machine covered in someone else’s bodily fluids (ew!). It’s common courtesy and helps keep the gym a healthy environment. Most gyms provide sanitizing wipes since the pandemic, so make sure you’re using them so you can help keep the gym a cleaner place. Plus, no one wants to be known as “that sweaty person who doesn’t clean up”.
5. Put down your phone and get your workout done.
Endless scrolling or texting while occupying a machine slows everyone down. The gym is for getting your sweat on, so save the social media catch-up for after your workout. Plus, focusing on your workout rather than your phone might even make it more effective! The endorphin rush from a good workout beats any social media notification.
6. Save the heavy PDA for outside the gym.
A supportive high-five or quick kiss is fine, but full-on make-out sessions are a bit much. The gym is a place to focus on yourself, and a couples’ workout routine can be distracting. Show some consideration for other gym members. Your significant other won’t disappear if you focus on your fitness for an hour. Plus, who wants to see someone else’s PDA while they’re trying to lift weights?
7. Remember, the locker room is a shared space.
Don’t spread your belongings over every surface or hog the mirror for an hour. Be mindful of other people who need to get ready too. It’s a locker room, not a penthouse suite! Changing rooms are for quick changes, not a full-on fashion show. And hey, rushing around helps you get that heart rate up before your actual workout.
8. Learn to use the equipment properly – ask if you’re unsure.
Misusing a machine can lead to injuries and makes you look clueless. Don’t be afraid to ask a staff member for guidance, or check online tutorials. Better safe than sorry! Not only will you avoid injury, but you’ll also get more out of your workout by doing exercises correctly. There’s no shame in asking for help – it shows you’re committed to your goals.
9. Gym floors are not barefoot-friendly, so always wear shoes.
Walking around barefoot in a gym is a recipe for picking up nasty bacteria and risking slivers or worse. Protect your feet and do your part to maintain a hygienic gym environment. Besides, no one wants to see your feet up close anyway, so this is a win-win. Other gym-goers don’t get grossed out and you don’t end up with athlete’s foot.
10. Skip the excessive perfume or cologne.
Strong scents, when mixed with sweat, can create a pretty unpleasant atmosphere. Keep your fragrance subtle or go without if possible. The other gym members will thank you. Consider it a favor to everyone with sensitive noses! Don’t bombard everyone with your excessive aftershave or perfume — save it for your post-workout shower.
11. Keep your voice down – the whole gym doesn’t need to hear your conversations.
The gym is a shared space, and loud phone calls or excessive chatter can be incredibly disruptive. If you have to take a phone call, save the in-depth conversations for the cafe afterward. Respect everyone who’s trying to concentrate and keep your volume down. Let the music you’re listening to or the sound of your own breathing be your soundtrack. Plus, you can’t be working all that hard if you’re maintaining a conversation!
12. Don’t hog the mirror – everyone needs to check their form.
Sure, admire those gains, but don’t camp out in front of the mirror and block everyone else’s view. A quick check is fine, but be sure to share the mirror love with your fellow gym-goers. Everyone’s working towards their fitness goals. Besides, focusing too much on the mirror might take your mind off your actual workout (and it might make people think you’re a bit of a narcissist!).
13. Come prepared with a workout plan, even if it’s a basic one.
Wandering aimlessly takes up space and time. Jot down a few exercises before you arrive. Even a rough plan helps you feel more focused and efficient. Think of it as your roadmap to workout success! Plus, the confidence boost from a plan will make your workout even better.
14. Stay home if you’re feeling under the weather.
Gyms are breeding grounds for germs, so save your workout for when you’re feeling better. Exercising when sick can also make you feel worse! Sparing everyone your sniffles is considerate. Plus, your body will thank you for the rest. Pushing yourself too hard when sick could prolong your recovery time anyway.
15. Don’t slam the weights – respect the equipment and our eardrums!
Yes, you’re strong, but dropping weights dramatically is unnecessary and can damage them. Controlled movements are better for your body and nicer for those around you. Let your muscles do the talking, not the weight crashing onto the floor. Showing respect for equipment also means it will be in good working condition for the next person to use.
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