Picture this: you’re at the gym, you forget your headphones and you’re trapped one-on-one with the grunting and groaning lifter who leaves their music on speaker as they workout. It can be enough to deter you from even starting your routine!
Most people cringe at the thought of that experience but a small fraction of people may not bat an eye at doing it themselves. If you’re one of the few who finds this acceptable, you might be one of “those people” who lacks any sort of gym etiquette.
If you’re concerned about your status at the gym, read this article to learn the tell-tale signs about proper gym etiquette including ways to tell whether you’re “that” annoying person at the gym.
How’s your gym etiquette: 5 ways to tell if you’re “that person” at the gym.
No one wants to workout when “that person” is at the gym. Yes, we mean the huffing, puffing, grunting person who plays their music on speaker and gives pointers without prompting. They are eager to tell you what you’re doing wrong but refuse to take any criticism themselves. “That” person is a nuisance to everyone else at the gym. Are you that person?
Are you making a lot of noise?
You might be “that person” at the gym if you’re making a lot of noise. What qualifies as a lot of noise, though?
Dropping your weights
Not only is dropping your weights bad for the equipment but it also one of the most annoying things anyone can do while working out. Instead of letting them fall from your hands mid-air, gently lay them on the ground between sets. This prolongs the lifespan of your dumbbells and will prevent awkward eye contact from people during their working out.
Grunting and groaning
We get it, that rep was hard. There’s no need to announce it to the whole room. No one wants to hear your grunts and groans! Letting out a little noise never hurts anyone but filling the gym with your screams is enough to make any person cringe.
How friendly are you?
Meeting people at the gym is typical, but if you’re chatting with everyone you encounter it might be time to evaluate your friendly level.
Talking to people in the middle of their lift
Talking to someone while they’re in the middle of their routine can be a safety hazard. You may provide a distraction from their workout and result in serious injury.
Talking with headphones in
If someone has headphones in, they’re probably not looking for conversation. People who workout alone typically want to be left alone. When they’re wearing headphones, this rule is especially true.
Do you take care of your workout equipment?
Taking care of your gym equipment is critical, especially when you are at a public gym.
Cleaning your machine
No one wants to sit in your sweat. Always clean your machine after using it. Public gyms provide rags to wipe away sweat and grime. Give your machine a quick wipe down after use and throw your used towel in the proper bin so your gym employees can wash it.
Returning your weights
Looking for that set of weights? It didn’t run away on it’s own, someone just didn’t return it. If you’re that person who doesn’t return your weights to the rack when you’re done, you might be one of the
Sharing the equipment
If you’re at a public gym, there’s no reason to hoard the equipment. Once you’re done with your set, get up! Resting for a moment between sets is one thing but sitting there for a half hour while you text your boo is a whole other ball game.
Conclusion
We weren’t all graced with the gift of being etiquette. In fact, you might be surprised by the overwhelming number of people who don’t understand what etiquette even is! If you’re someone who lacks manners at the gym, you might need to reevaluate your approach to public workouts. It will benefit you and everyone else!
