The Unspoken Rules Of Going To The Gym
By molly atherton
1 year ago
Welcome to the sweaty, clangorous symphony of the fitness world, where iron meets determination and grunts harmonize with the whirring of treadmills. The gym isn’t just a place for flexing muscles; it’s a playground of unspoken codes and clandestine etiquettes that lurk beneath the clinking weights and blaring workout anthems. From the unwritten queue for the coveted squat rack to the subtle nods of acknowledgment during an intense session!
1. WIPE. DOWN. THE. GYM. EQUIPMENT.
The gym isn't a private fortress; it's a communal sanctuary where fitness enthusiasts convene to pursue their health goals. Imagine striding over to a machine, fueled with determination for your next set, only to encounter a puddle of someone else's perspiration, like an unwelcome surprise party.
Image Source: Reddit
This is a shared space, people! Everyone else has the right to be there just as much as you do. And there's nothing worse than going to use a piece of equipment and find it's covered in someone else's sweat. It takes less than 30 seconds to wipe down what you've used and leave it in a nice state for the next person!Original content sourced from Femanin.com2. Please don't record other people at the gym
Ah, the era of gym selfies and workout reels - a cultural phenomenon that's practically as common as the treadmill's hum. It's like a rite of passage, capturing the perfect flex or that triumphant moment of conquering a personal best.
Image Source: Tribuna
Look, we get that gym selfies and workout videos are a hot thing right now. Do we love it, not really, but we understand. If you are going to video yourself, please don't be rude about it. If someone walks in front of your video, don't yell at them. It's their gym space too. And definitely don't record other people for your amusement to post online.3. Don't move people's stuff without asking
Ah, the curious case of the misplaced gym gear – a conundrum that often tests our moral compass in the labyrinth of workout equipment. You spot a stray gym bag or a forlorn water bottle, and the urge to play lost-and-found superhero kicks in. But hold your horses, dear gym denizen, for there's a fine line between kindness and invading personal space.
Image Source: Reddit
If you see someone's gym bag or towel or water bottle, and you think it should be somewhere else. Ask around first for the owner, because no one wants your sweaty palms all over their stuff. Of course, if the stuff is in an inconvenient or even dangerous spot, then alert a gym staff member! Just be respectful of people's property!4. You shouldn't swing kettlebells in a high traffic area
Absolutely, kettlebell swings are a powerhouse workout, but like any exercise, context is key. Picture this: you're mid-swing, fully immersed in the rhythm of the exercise, when suddenly, a stream of fellow gym-goers hustles through your workout zone. Disaster waiting to happen? You bet!
Image Source: Men's Health
This is kind of common sense! Kettlebell swings are a fantastic workout, but a lot could go wrong if you're doing them in an area where people are constantly walking. You could seriously injure someone during your swing, or if you were to happen to drop the kettlebell, you could injure yourself or another person.5. Keep your eyes to yourself
Ah, the accidental gaze trap at the gym! It's a common hazard—your eyes inadvertently fixate on someone's impressive deadlift or flawless form mid-squat, and suddenly, you're inadvertently starring in a silent workout theater.
Image Source: Reddit
Even if it's not sexual, it's sometimes easy to find yourself staring at people in the gym. Maybe you're just checking out their form, or you're super impressed by what they're doing. But it's best to try to keep your eyes to yourself. If you're that interested in what someone else is doing, you can politely approach to ask for pointers, but do this with discretion if they don't seem like they want to talk to you!6. Respect the headphones
Headphones in, world out – that seems to be the universal gym code for "please, no interruptions." It's akin to the invisible force field of focus that signals, "I'm in the zone, leave me be!" Those earbuds aren't just for show; they're the fortress walls guarding against unsolicited conversations.
Image Source: Vox
Speaking of talking, be observant if someone has their headphones in. This is a pretty telltale sign that they're focused on their workout and not looking to chat it up. If you need to ask a question, wait until the right moment, because interrupting someone's set can be dangerous if you catch them off guard.7. If you're listening to music, use your headphones
Ah, the symphony of gym playlists – a diverse medley ranging from heavy metal anthems to soothing acoustic melodies. Each gym-goer comes armed with their musical artillery, a soundtrack carefully curated to power them through the reps and sets. But here's the catch: not everyone wants a serenade of your favorite tunes!
Image Source: Reddit
We all know, your taste in music is impeccable, but sometimes we don't feel like listening to the Titanic soundtrack while we're pumping iron. If that's what gets you psyched, more power to ya, but maybe throw your headphones on. Be respectful of others at the gym who are maybe listening to their favorite podcast or an album that really gets them hyped.8. Be a good spotter
Ah, the art of spotting at the gym – it's a responsibility that carries the weight of safety and trust. When someone beckons for your assistance in their lifting conquest, it's akin to being handed the keys to their workout kingdom. But here's the secret code: less is more until it's needed!
Image Source: Wikipedia
If someone asks you to spot for them, then please make sure you know what you're doing. The safety of both parties, but especially the lifter, depends on it. You can be hands off until they ask you to help them. It's really distracting and unnecessary to be touching the bar the entire time or trying to lift it for them.9. Do a hygiene check before you enter the gym
Absolutely, the gym isn't just a place for physical transformations; it's also a social arena where olfactory considerations come into play. While sweat is the badge of honor in this arena, it doesn't have to be accompanied by an overpowering aroma.
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Deodorant exists for a reason. Before you go to the gym, just check that you aren't already stinky. The same goes for your clothes. If they're the same ones you've been working out in all week, it's likely time to throw on some fresh clothes before you head to a shared space. Your fellow gym-goers will be appreciative!10. Make sure you do a good warm-up
Before the grand symphony of squats, deadlifts, or that triumphant sprint on the treadmill, there's a crucial overture that often gets overlooked – the warm-up and stretch routine. Think of it as the prelude to a performance, setting the stage for an injury-free workout extravaganza.
Image Source: Hard To Kill Fitness
They say that warming up and stretching is just as important as the actual workout. Making sure you take the time to stretch beforehand helps to prevent injuries. Most gyms have a designated area with mats for this so that you're not in the way. It's also great to stretch or foam roll after your workout.11. Asking someone if you can work in with them
Ah, the delicate dance of equipment sharing at the gym – it's a scenario that often calls for a strategic approach and a touch of social finesse. Picture this: you've got your eyes set on the bench press, but someone's already stationed there, sans headphones, seemingly at a workout crossroads.
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So you see someone using the equipment you want to use. If they don't have headphones in, and they're not in the middle of a set, maybe you're thinking of asking them if you can "work in." Before you do so, make sure it makes sense for both of you, and ask yourself if you can get the same workout using other equipment already available. If it's green flags all around, then go ahead and ask!12. Try to keep the noise making in check
Ah, the symphony of gym sounds – the rhythmic clinks of weights, the hushed whispers of sneakers against the floor, and occasionally, the involuntary symphony of grunts, groans, and the occasional expletive. It's the soundtrack of effort, the byproduct of intense focus, and sometimes, the audible expressions sneak out unintentionally.
Image Source: RedditYes, lifting weights is hard work, and sometimes when you're focused on what you're doing and trying to breathe, the noises just come out. But try to keep the breathing in check and keep the grunting and moaning to a minimum. The same goes for excessive swearing and dropping the weights when you're done.13. Speaking of weights, know your weight limit
There's a fine line between pushing your limits and a theatric weight-throwing finale at the gym. It's like a balancing act on the edge of a dumbbell, where the distinction between challenging oneself and inviting chaos becomes apparent.
Image Source: YouTube
If you have to throw your weights, drop your weights or otherwise make a scene when you're finishing a set, you're likely lifting too heavy. This can damage the weights, the gym floor, and cause injury to yourself. It's actually not beneficial from a gains perspective to lift in this manner anyways!14. If you're trying to do a circuit, follow this rule
Creating a circuit set at the gym is like crafting a symphony of exercises, each station seamlessly transitioning into the next. But here's the unsung rule of circuit composition: spatial awareness is key! Imagine this: you've meticulously planned your circuit routine...
Image Source: technologynetworks.com
If you want to do a circuit set, then try to pick a few things that are close together. If the gym is super busy, it's probably not a good time to try to set up a circuit. When your circuit is too spread out, you run the likelihood that someone will think the equipment is free, and that will frustrate both you and the other person.15. Make sure equipment is free before taking it
Navigating the barbell territory at the gym is akin to a reconnaissance mission, a subtle dance of observation and inquiry before claiming your lifting ground. Picture this: you've got your eyes set on that coveted barbell, poised for a killer session.
Image Source: Orange County Register
If you're looking to use the barbell, just do a quick scan to make sure it's actually free. Is there a towel laid out or personal belongings nearby? Before you unload the barbell, just make sure it's available. It's also okay to check with someone if they're not in the middle of a set to see what the situation is.16. Don't be afraid to ask for help
The gym staff members are the unsung heroes of the fitness fortress! They're not just there to scan membership cards or ensure equipment cleanliness; they're your go-to experts for decoding gym mysteries and navigating the uncharted waters of fitness etiquettes.
Image Source: Newsweek
The gym staff workers are there for a reason. If you have a question about how something works or a particular gym etiquette, the staff can definitely help you out. Most of them are trained in physical health and fitness to some degree. If they can't help you, most regular gym-goers are also happy to answer a couple questions, but just look for someone who doesn't have headphones in!17. Use a towel
The gym isn’t just a fitness haven; it’s also a domain where sweat holds court as the reigning champ. If you’ve got a tendency to turn your workout zone into a steamy sauna, a trusty towel is your secret weapon against the sweat deluge.
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If you know that you're prone to sweat like your own personal sauna, then it might be a good idea to bring your own towel to the gym or pick one up at the front desk on your way in. Of course, we're all good gym members who wipe down the equipment, but the towel provides an extra barrier and helps to keep you from dripping all over the treadmill or the person you're spotting.18. Please don't fart in the open gym
Ah, the gym, where the symphony of exertion and physicality reaches its crescendo. But amidst the clinks of weights and the rhythmic hum of treadmills, there's an unspoken plea that echoes through the hallowed gym halls: the call for olfactory decorum.
Image Source: Reddit
We get it. You're working out and your body is responding. Stuff is moving around in there. But please, if you have to fart, we beg you to go to the bathroom/locker room to do so. There are enough smells already permeating the gym area without adding those into the mix, so it's for the greater good!19. Unload the bar and squat rack safely
Ah, the unspoken art of weight unloading at the gym—the delicate choreography of maintaining balance and safety. Picture this: you've completed your Herculean lifting session and now face the task of unloading the weight rack.
Image Source: Reddit
It may feel annoying to have to walk back and forth, but you need to unload the rack taking a single plate at a time off each side. If you unload one side in its entirety while the other side is full, you're going to create a dangerous situation! It can easily flip sideways and injure you and anyone else in the way.20. Try not to hog the mirror
Ah, the allure of the gym mirrors—the silent spectators reflecting our workout symphony, offering glimpses of form and determination. It's human nature to want that quick check-in with our reflection amidst the hustle of exercise. But here's the unsung gym etiquette hymn: courtesy is key in the mirror dance.
Image Source: reddit.com
Everyone is trying to check themselves out when they're working out. It's human nature. But even if you wanna keep an eye on your form, just try to be courteous about it. Don't take up an entire space to the point where no one else can also see what they're doing, and definitely don't walk in front of someone who's already checking the mirror!21. Don't occupy equipment if you're on your phone
Ah, the dual-purpose allure of smartphones at the gym—they're not just for workout tracking or setting timers; they're your pocket-sized fitness companions. Yet, here's the unspoken rule of phone etiquette in the gym: courtesy reigns supreme.
Image Source: Quora
Phones are useful at the gym, whether you're writing down your workouts or using the timer. But if you're resting in-between sets, don't hog equipment while you're scrolling social media. If you need to have a conversation on the phone, please step to the side somewhere so that not everyone has to listen to you argue with your boss!22. Don't talk to someone who's getting ready to lift
Deadlifts and squats are the heavyweight champions of mental focus and physical preparation at the gym. Picture this: someone gearing up for a deadlift or squat session, eyes fixed on the bar, an air of determination enveloping them like a cocoon. It's the gym's equivalent of preparing for a momentous quest.
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Deadlifts and squats take a bit of mental and physical preparation. If you see someone preparing to do these types of exercises, it's probably not a good idea to use that moment to strike up a conversation. If they're facing the bar looking serious, it's best to save the chat for later.23. It's okay to save equipment under certain circumstances
Ah, the coveted dumbbells—the gym's golden nuggets for sculpting those biceps and triceps into works of art. But here's the unsung art of reserving those coveted weights without turning them into relics of an abandoned kingdom.
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Okay, you finally got the dumbbells you've been waiting to use. If you need to step away for a second, it's okay to place your towel over them, so people know that you're going to use them as soon as you get back from grabbing a drink of water. But please don't do this if you're going to be gone for 10 minutes or more when someone else could be getting a set in!24. Eating and drinking etiquette
Hydration and the occasional protein shake are the gym's loyal sidekicks, ensuring your body's fueled and refreshed during your fitness exploits. But here's the unsung gym dining etiquette: save the feasting for post-workout endeavors.
Image Source: Verywell Fit
Of course, you need to stay hydrated. Maybe you like to drink your protein shake. Beyond this, it's probably best if you save your food and drinks for after your workout. I've been running on the treadmill next to someone who's eating an entire meal while on the elliptical. Honestly, just save it for later!25. Be mindful of personal space
The gym hustle sometimes leads to a dance of proximity, where finding the right space for your workout becomes a nuanced endeavor. It's akin to the delicate art of gym spacing, a dance where granting each other's workout space becomes an unspoken courtesy.
Image Source: Joe.ie
The gym can get crowded sometimes, and sometimes there's no other choice than to take the treadmill right next to someone. But if the space allows, try to spread out and give people the space they need to get a good workout in. This especially goes in the free weights area. If someone's doing squats or utilizing a bench, try to not work out right on top of them.26. Don't drown yourself in cologne
The gym is a shared space where scent harmony is just as important as physical harmony. While the pursuit of olfactory pleasantness is understandable, dousing oneself in an abundance of cologne, body spray, or perfume before hitting the gym can inadvertently transform the shared space into an unintended fragrance battlefield.
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While it's important to not smell BAD at the gym, there's also an issue when people pour cologne, body spray or perfume all over themselves before heading into this shared space. Even if your gym crush is there, it's not a good idea to make other people have headaches or feel nauseous because of your choices!27. You don't have to work out right in front of the weights rack
The weight rack isn't just a treasure trove of iron; it's also a bustling hub of workout transitions and shared equipment. Picture this: you've snagged the perfect pair of dumbbells for your bicep curls, and in a stroke of convenience, you've stationed yourself near the weight rack.
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Sometimes it feels convenient to grab the weights you need and then pick a spot nearby to start doing your bicep curls. But just remember that other people need to access the weight rack too, so there might be a better spot for your to stand. If you do choose to stand there, then don't be annoyed if you get interrupted!28. Don't start conversations in the locker room NAKED
The gym locker room—a transitional space where the dance of changing attire meets a moment of respite. Yet, initiating conversations while in a state of undress can lead to an awkward symphony for both parties involved.
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You just really need to tell someone about your day or ask someone about their workout. That's totally fine, but it's super awkward to approach anyone at the gym in the locker room when you're not clothed. I'm speaking from experience. It's just really uncomfy, and the conversation can wait until you've put some pants on!29. Don't give people unsolicited advice
While the urge to offer guidance or correct someone's form at the gym might feel like an instinctive response, the gym etiquette compass often points towards a different direction. It's the unsung gym empathy code—a reminder that appearances can be deceiving.
Image Source: Men's Health
The only exception to this is if someone is in immediate danger. You might see someone doing something wrong, and it takes everything in you to not correct their form. But in reality, you don't know someone's goals or previous injuries where they might have to modify an exercise, so it's best to just keep that stuff to yourself!30. Re-rack your damn weights!
The gym isn't just a sanctuary for fitness; it's a shared space where the harmony of organization and courtesy reigns supreme. Enter the unspoken gym ritual: re-racking weights. There's a shared frustration in the wild hunt for missing weights, a quest for those elusive 15s...
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The amount of times I've had to go hunting for a set of 15s. Please, please re-rack your weights in the proper spot when you're finished. Once again, the gym is a communal space, and it functions best when we all help each other out. We're all adults here, so please clean up after yourself!31. Don't do your curls in the squat rack!
The sacred domain of the squat rack—a hallowed ground for lower body mastery and strength building. The unspoken rule of this gym citadel is right there in its name: it's the designated arena for squats and their mighty variants.
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The clue's in the name with this one: you should only be doing (you guessed it) squatting in the squat rack, so if you're not going to be working on the squats, you shouldn't be in that area whatsoever! You definitely shouldn't be doing your curling in the squat rack, and you shouldn't bothering someone else using the rack while you're doing your curls!32. Don't spot someone if you're sweaty
Sweating it out at the gym is part and parcel of a productive workout session, but when it comes to providing a spot for someone, a touch of sweat awareness becomes paramount. It's the unspoken gym spotting code: avoid the inadvertent sweat shower while being a reliable workout ally.
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You can't help getting sweaty in the gym - in fact, it's encouraged if you want to make your workout count - but if you're dripping with sweat, there're certain things you shouldn't be doing. And one of these - no matter how good your intentions are - is to bend over someone when you're spotting them while those huge beads of sweat are literally dripping off your forehead onto them.33. Walk behind someone at the mirror, not in front
Navigating the gym space while being mindful of others' activities, including impromptu TikTok filming sessions, is the unspoken gym choreography for a harmonious workout environment. It's the unwritten rule of gym traffic: walk behind rather than inadvertently stealing the spotlight in someone's workout video.
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It's just the decent thing to do. It doesn't matter if you hate the fact they're filming themselves in the mirror for a TikTok, or that they're in your way, it just makes sense to walk behind them instead of right by the camera so that your sweaty gym head goes into focus on their video and they end up shooting you the evil eye for the rest of their (and your) workout.34. Don't pose in the mirror right next to someone who's training
The gym mirrors—silent witnesses to form checks and occasional self-admiration. It's a gym space where the mirrors serve as both workout allies and avenues for personal admiration. Yet, there's an unsung rule within this reflection domain: respecting the mirror real estate of fellow gym-goers engrossed in their workouts.
image source: KJB Fitness
It's okay to use the mirror if you want to watch your own technique. It's even okay if you just want o stand there and admire your muscles from every angle - you do you. But it's not good gym etiquette if you walk right up to someone who is in front of the mirror training and decide that right next to them is the spot you want to admire yourself - and your biceps - for half an hour, while they're trying to train.35. Think twice about wearing a belt
The workout belt—a trusty ally for providing support and stability during heavy lifts. It's a tool designed to assist during intense exercises, but like any accessory, its use requires a touch of gym fashion consciousness. Picture this: someone sporting a workout belt for every set and every exercise...
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A workout belt is there for good reason, but the simple fact is, you don't need to wear it for every. Single. Set. And for every single workout you're doing, too. Rather than looking like you're a professional who knows what they're doing, it just makes you look a bit silly - like you're putting more focus on the fact you're wearing a belt than your actual workout technique.36. It's not a place to pick up dates
The gym, a place where fitness goals converge, camaraderie thrives, and, occasionally, gym crushes bloom. Yet, the realm of gym romance comes with an unspoken etiquette, a delicate balance between admiration and respectful boundaries.
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We know it can't be helped if you develop a gym crush. And you can't help but notice other attractive people at the gym. You might think you're taking your shot by asking out that person you've noticed going to the gym the same time as you, but it's really not the time mid sweaty workout to ask someone out. Not only that, if they've headphones on and they're training, they don't want to be chatted up.37. It's not a place to chat with pals, either
The gym isn't just a fitness haven; it's a shared space where workout pursuits intertwine with social dynamics. While gym camaraderie and spotter banter are part of the workout fabric, transforming the gym into a makeshift café might inadvertently disrupt the workout sanctum.
image source: BuzzFeed
Sure, you can go to the gym with a bunch of mates who need to workout at the same time as you, and you can talk to each other while you're using different machines, or maybe spotting each other. What isn't okay is paying for a gym membership and then using the entire time you're there to just sit on the machines without using them only to chit chat about your week, or that colleague that annoys you. Take it to a coffee shop instead!38. Don't rush to spot someone without them asking
The gym etiquette compass often guides us in moments where offering help can either be a kind gesture or an unintended intrusion. Specifically, for male gym-goers offering unsolicited assistance to female gym-goers, a nuanced understanding of boundaries becomes paramount.
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This one is for you gym bros who rush over to help a female gym goer even though she never asked you for help. If she did, great - it's courteous to help her if you have time to. Otherwise, you don't want to go up to her - that closely, either - with that area of your body right in her face when she never even asked for it. You might think you're helping, but you're really, really not.39. It'll look cooler without gloves
While gym gloves offer some advantages like protecting the hands and providing a better grip, the perspective on callouses versus gloves is an interesting one in the fitness world. Indeed, callouses are like badges of honor, a testament to consistent training and dedication, much like calloused fingertips from playing guitar.
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If you've been wearing gym gloves for your workouts, you might be thinking that's the best way to hold equipment, as well as potentially be a bit more hygienic. But if you're serious about your workout, those callouses is what will help you in the long run! Just like playing guitar, we guess. So ditch the gym gloves - save yourself some money on them, too - and go for bare hands!40. Don't forget your leg workout
The allure of sculpted biceps and chiseled abs often takes center stage in fitness aspirations. However, creating a balanced physique and ensuring overall strength involves more than just showcasing upper body muscles—it's about giving due attention to all muscle groups, including the often-neglected legs.
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Too many people who start hitting the gym think that what's most important is building big muscles with more potential to be seen like those biceps or those abs. Building core strength is key, but as the saying goes - never skip leg day! Make sure you're including your legs in your gym routine because no one wants to see a massively top heavy gym bro with tiny twiggy legs... do us all a favor, and even it out.41. Respect the shaker cup!
The humble shaker cup, a gym essential for mixing up those power-packed workout shakes. Its purpose goes beyond just carrying water—it's a vessel to blend your favorite workout fuel and protein supplements, elevating your workout preparation and post-workout recovery.
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The shaker cup, by its very definition, is to shake together water with your favorite gym shake to keep you fuelled for your workout and get some protein in there. It's handy to have, and you should be using it properly - by making sure you put more than just water in there! You might as well just take a regular water bottle if you're going to use a shaker cup just for that.42. Don't give advice when it wasn't asked for
Navigating the realm of offering unsolicited advice at the gym can be a delicate dance. While it might be tempting to lend a helping hand or correct someone's form, respecting boundaries and understanding personal preferences is crucial in the gym etiquette guidebook.
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Even if it's painful to watch because they're doing it so very, very wrong, you shouldn't say anything at all to another gym goer in the way of advice unless they specifically ask you for it. And you definitely shouldn't comment on someone who's doing something perfectly fine, it's just a little different to how you'd do it - nobody likes a know it all!43. Don't be tempted to tell impressive lifters how good you *used* to be
Ah, the tale of the impressive gym virtuoso—an undeniable magnet for admiration and attention. It's not uncommon for their prowess to draw curious eyes and sometimes spark a compelling urge in others to share their own stories or abilities.
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We all know the story - there's an awesome and impressive lifter at the gym who's so good that it's inevitable people will pay attention to them, and suddenly you're compelled to hover around them and tell them that you could totally do what they're doing if it wasn't for the injury you had a couple years ago, or (enter other reason here that may or may not be true).44. Try not to linger next to a machine
The gym dance involves not just the movements between machines but also the unspoken choreography of spatial awareness and machine usage. Lingering around a machine, post-workout or during a moment of respite, might inadvertently send misleading signals to fellow gym-goers.
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You might not even know you're doing it, because you're taking a moment to catch your breath or think which machine you're going to do next, but definitely don't linger next to a machine you're absolutely not going to use, or you've just finished using - someone who's just arrived at the gym and only just seen you might think you're getting ready to use it, so it'll stop them from doing so!45. Learn proper form
The gym journey often begins with the aspiration to lift impressive weights, but the cornerstone of a successful workout lies in mastering proper form rather than solely focusing on lifting heavier. Picture this: someone passionately lifting weights but neglecting proper form.
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Proper form is so important for a good gym workout, and the worst culprits for not having proper form are those who are lifting but doing it more like a 'bounce' off their chest than using proper form. It's important to spend your time at the gym learning proper form first to give your shoulders a break, rather than 'how quickly can I look super impressive to everyone'.46. Don't ask people about their supplements
The supplement journey is personal and can often be misunderstood in the gym space. Assuming someone's reliance on supplements or inquiring about their usage can indeed lead to discomfort or even offense, especially when it comes to individuals who've diligently built their physique without such aids.
image source: Bodybuilding.com
It's also not very good etiquette to ask people what supplements they're taking - or even just to presume they're taking anything at all. It can be a little insulting for a huge gym goer with those massive muscles they've been diligently working on for years to be asked what help they're getting from supplements or other things to give them a boost, when they're not actually taking anything. (Or, it's none of your business).47. Don't do lunges on the walkway
The gym's walkways are designed to facilitate smooth traffic flow, allowing everyone to navigate the space comfortably. While the allure of an open walkway might seem like an ideal spot for lunges, it's essential to prioritize the flow of gym traffic over impromptu workout spaces.
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We get it, the main walkway of the gym with the most space at a long distance can seem the perfect spot to do some lunges, but it's a walkway, not a workout spot, and it's needed for precisely what it's there to do - keep the flow of gym traffic going! So if you're doing lunges there, you're just in everyone's way, holding everyone up and looking like a fool.48. Don't choose your music on the machine
Crafting the perfect workout playlist can be an essential part of gym motivation, but it's crucial to be mindful of others' time and access to gym equipment while curating your musical selection. Picture this: someone finishing a workout on a machine and then spending an extended time loading up their playlist while still occupying the equipment.
image source: Modern Health Monk
If it's going to take you a good ten minutes to load up your perfect workout playlist songs, then it's best to choose them over in the corner rather on the machine you've just finished on, or even before you've started on the machine, because someone could be quickly using it while you sort your music out! Never hog machines anyway, but definitely not if you're going through songs on shuffle!49. Don't spit in the water fountain
Hydration and managing post-workout saliva buildup are essential in the gym environment, but proper etiquette while handling this situation is crucial to maintain a clean and considerate atmosphere for all gym-goers.
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We know that a hefty workout when you're sweating can leave you with extra saliva in your mouth that you just need to spit, but definitely DO NOT do it in the water fountain (and we can't believe we have to tell people that). You can take a drink but don't swill it and then spit it back out into the fountain. If you need to spit, go to the bathroom sinks instead, or outside!50. Cover yourself up properly
Rocking your preferred gym attire is fantastic, but ensuring a proper fit and adequate coverage is key to avoiding potential wardrobe mishaps during workouts. Imagine this: someone passionately engaged in their workout, only to encounter an outfit malfunction due to ill-fitting gym attire.