If you're new to the gym or just re-joined after a hiatus, it's helpful to have a refresher on gym etiquette. Navigating the gym as a beginner can be intimidating, especially with all the different pieces of equipment available. You may also wonder if you should keep track of time while using a machine or if it's acceptable to use more than one piece of equipment at a time. To help make this experience easier for you, we've gathered a basic code of conduct that gym-goers can follow.
Gym etiquette
Very important: Don't be an equipment hog.
The rules of the gym are simple: Clean up after yourself, share when necessary and don't be rude to others.
Put everything back where it belongs
This might be the number-one gym etiquette rule. Don't leave a trail of equipment behind you: If you use something, put it back. For example, if you use multiple free weights, make sure to re-rack them. The same applies to any workout mats or other pieces of equipment you use.
Don't hog the equipment
Usually, gyms have a rush hour (in the mornings and evenings). You want to be mindful during these times that it may be crowded and equipment may be limited; therefore, you don't want to hog up multiple pieces of equipment. If you're going to squat, then squat — don't make people wait for you as you mindlessly scroll through your phone. Leave the scrolling for your rest periods.
If there's no one around, feel free to use what you want. But if it looks busy and you notice people lining up by the machine or equipment you're using, be open to sharing.
Wipe things down after you use them
Not only is it considerate to wipe equipment down after use, it's also hygienic. Considering the number of people constantly touching these items, it's easy for germs to spread. During flu and cold season, it's the least you can do to keep other gym-goers and yourself healthy. Use antibacterial wipes to wipe your sweat off machines, barbells, floor mats and anything else you use. Even if you "didn't sweat that much," wipe it down.
Respect personal space
Gyms get crowded, especially during the first few months of the year. You should be mindful of the space limitations and respect everyone's personal space. You don't want to risk an injury occurring or, in some cases, an unnecessary argument.
Filming and photography
This also applies to recording content at the gym. You may want to self-record clips of yourself doing certain exercises for your personal use or social media, but you should be considerate of your surroundings. Some people may not want to be in your video and you should be wary of that. Additionally, do not be the rude gym-goer who photographs someone without their consent and then posts about it on social media to make fun of them.
Be flexible about your routine if the gym is crowded
Sometimes you won't be able to get to the first piece of equipment you need for your workout. Instead of hovering two inches away from the person who's currently using it, figure out a way to modify your routine. It's helpful to know alternative exercises that work the same muscles or start on a different exercise first before going back to that one. You'll save time and you might end up challenging yourself in a new way.
Claim your space and equipment.
You should definitely follow guidelines to keep the gym an enjoyable place for other gym-goers, but don't forget about making your own experience pleasant.
Bring your own towel or wipes
A towel or your own antibacterial wipes will help if someone leaves the machine covered in sweat and there are no communal antibacterial wipes left to wipe it down. Sometimes, these things happen in busy commercial gyms, so it's best to come prepared.
Claim your space
Make it clear to others where you are working out and what equipment you are using. If you need to swing a kettlebell, run in place or stretch out on the floor, claim enough space to do that.
If you have to leave to use the restroom or get water, place a marker on the equipment you're using. You can even tell someone working out nearby that you'll be right back as you step away.
Don't be afraid to ask for more space
You might make an effort to protect your fellow gym-goers' personal space, but that doesn't mean they'll all do the same. If you feel like someone is encroaching upon your area, let them know you need the space for whichever workout you're doing.
Plan your workouts
Make things so, so much easier for yourself by planning your workouts ahead of time. Knowing what you're doing before you start will save you a lot of fiddling around and make your workouts go by much quicker. You'll be in and out of the gym before you know it.
Be mindful of your surroundings
The gym can be a dangerous place if you aren't alert. Just as you should stay aware of your surroundings during outdoor workouts, stay aware in the weight room, too. For example, be mindful of where you are placing barbells and weight plates. Don't use kettlebells unless you have adequate space first. You should also be mindful of the workouts people are doing around you to avoid intervening.
Quick chats at the gym are fine, but don't take up 20 minutes of someone's precious gym time.
Keep conversations to a minimum
People go to the gym to get a workout in, and most people are limited on time. Keep conversations short and friendly to avoid disturbing other gym-goers.
Likewise, let people know when they're talking too much. If someone is taking up your time at the gym, it's OK to say, "It was great talking to you, but I've really got to get back to my workout." Additionally, don't use the gym as a speed dating setting and inappropriately make advances towards someone, especially if they don't seem interested. This is harassment, and if reported, it could get you kicked out of the facility.