Gym Etiquette, Start the New Year Right

BY JORDAN SHAKESHAFT

From yoga and Pilates to circuits and supersets, there’s no right or wrong way to get in shape. Whatever it takes to break a sweat, right? But let's not leave that sweat on the mats (or that hair in the sink). From the locker room to the cardio zone, when it comes to gym etiquette, there are a few rules that everyone should follow—fitness karma points guaranteed.

Respect the headphones

Singles feel free to mingle, but people who have their headphones in are basically putting up a big "do not disturb" sign. So, save the chit chat for later.

Wax on, wax off

Sure, we may have hit the gym to avoid doing housework, but wiping down machines is a chore with serious payoffs. (No one wants a side of germs and infectious skin diseases with their workout.)

Lift a finger

More chores, we know. But returning free weights, medicine balls, and other equipment to their proper places is more than courteous—it might burn a few extra calories too!

Mind the mirror

Leave the lip gloss application, ab adoration, and smizing for the boudoir. Gym mirrors are there for form and safety, so avoid crossing in front of Mr. Military Press mid-set.

Get in the zone

The right one, that is. From bicep curls to power cleans, there’s a proper place for everything at the gym—and trust us, you don’t want to learn the hard way.

Share!

Sometimes there just aren’t enough toys for everyone. Let a stranger “work in.” And rather than standing idly by, maximize your time and efforts with a few killer supersets.

Easy does it

While every gym has its own policy, most prefer it to be earthquake-free. Avoid dropping heavy weights like hot cakes—and leave excessive grunting off the menu while you're at it.

Don’t let it all hang out

While it’s unlikely grandma’s showing up, Cardio Sculpt is a long ways from Woodstock. To keep things kosher, make sure those goodies are under wraps.

Give some breathing room

It’s no secret that cardio can get a little sticky-icky sometimes. So when there’s a choice of seven free treadmills, is it really necessary to cozy up right next to Ultra-Marathon Man? Scout out a more secluded treadmill instead.

Play it straight

Interval training aside, keep the treadmill stunts to a minimum (unless of course you’re these guys).

No spitting, snot rocketing, or other barnyard behavior

This should go without saying, but spend enough time in a gym and you’re bound to see it once. Do not pass go; proceed directly to the hand sanitizer (stank face optional).

No marking your territory

Saving seats was so not fair in middle school—and not much has changed since then. So don’t expect that towel, water bottle, or fanny pack (workout fashion 911!) to mean “dibs” on the elliptical.

Link:

https://greatist.com/fitness/ultimate-guide-gym-etiquette