Gym Etiquette
By Oscar Gan, CPT

A lot has been writing for this article. Many don't even know that it exists let alone followed. But at any rate here it is and hope that everything written will be followed and observed.

A gym environment should never be intimidating. By joining a gym, you are sharing the space and equipment with other members. The basic rule to remember is "Do unto others what you would want others do unto you". Below are some unwritten rules of gym etiquette that should help make a gym environment fun and friendly. Everybody is guilty at one time or the other that's why we should be reminded again and again until it is rule of thumb.

Be nice and considerate to other members. Would you want other members to be nice to you? Sure you do. Be considerate by keeping conversations to a minimum around other members and especially keep your voices down. No profanity! No shouting! No rude comments! No name-calling! When taking an exercise class, show up on time. Do not distract the class by creating your own routine. Do not leave your towel or training log book at another workout bench if you are using one. Avoid staring at other gym members. As much as possible leave your cellphone at your locker and or put it on silent mode or have your trainer hold it for you. You will only be away from your cellphone for at least an hour so put is away first where it is safe and avoid the stress it provides.

Put away the weights when you are finished using it. Not everyone is as strong as you are. This is especially annoying to women, put the heavy weights away. Likewise, someone bench pressing 300lbs would not like it if they have to deal with putting away those 10lbs plates. Leaving dumbbells on the floor can cause someone to trip over and fall. Be sure to put it back to its designated area.

Do not hog the equipment. If you are finished using the equipment, get up and allow others to alternate with you. The gym equipment is for all members to use. If you wish to alternate with someone, be polite and ask to alternate with them. Do not jump right in. Follow the gym's time limit on cardiovascular equipment, especially in a crowded gym. Do not have long chit chats with your friends while you are on the machines.

Wipe your sweat off when you are finished using the equipment. Carry a towel or get some paper towel (a good gym will provide paper towels) to wipe off your own sweat from the equipment. Leaving your sweat in the equipment is disgusting.

Be courteous in the locker room. Do not dump a pile of toilet paper in the toilet. Flush after using the toilet. Do not leave dirty tissue in the sink area and clean up the sink area after use, your janitor will love you for it. Do not stare at other members. Do not take up 2 or more lockers. Keep the benches clear. Do not take long showers. Do not scatter your things all over the locker room. Be considerate on where you put your things. Don't put your big gym bag on the bench - the bench is for sitting not for a gym bag.

Communicate with the staff and management. If you're not sure how to work a machine, get help from a trainer on duty. This will save you from having an embarrassing incident in the gym. If something bothers you in the gym, it most likely bothers others as well. Let the manager know about the problem so that it may be fixed. Other members will appreciate it.