We’re getting ready for the new year, and this means that many people are considering ways to prioritize their healthfor their resolutions. We’re expecting crowded gyms with new faces learning the ropes–and it’s wonderful that so many people are focusing on their wellness. However, there is some gym etiquette that you should know because things that may feel polite to you may actually be considered rude to others.
Whether you’re a regular fitness fanatic or a beginner gym go-er, here are 7 habits to avoid—plus what to do instead.
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1. You wait in sight of someone using a machine instead of asking.
It might seem like the rude thing to do is to approach someone and ask when they will be done with a machine, but it’s better to be direct than seemingly passive aggressive. Even if you think you’re out of sight, trust us, you’re not. Next time you’ve been waiting for a machine for a while, just ask the user!
2. You leave weights on the machine instead of putting them away.
You may think that the 45s are the standard for all, but everyone has a different limit and goal. Leave the machine hopefully how you found it and put all of the weights away. It takes a few extra seconds, and the next person that uses the machine will thank you for it.
3. You’re recording yourself without being mindful of the people around you.
If you want to take progress pictures or videos of yourself working out, no one is faulting you for that. But please make sure that your gym is okay with you recording yourself and that the people around you are okay with being filmed. As we approach 2024, this becomes more and more of a safety precaution that everyone should keep in mind. Plus, the gym is a vulnerable place for some, and not everyone may want to be recorded or even be in the background of your picture. Ask for permission before assuming it’s fine.
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4. You give another gym go-er unwarranted advice, even if well-intended.
5. You wipe down your equipment after use, but you leave it soaking wet.
We want to applaud you for actually taking the time to clean the equipment. Many even fail to do that! But try to leave the equipment how you would like it—meaning, don’t leave it uncleanedorsoaking wet from an excessive wipe down. The next person using the equipment doesn’t want to be sitting in soapy water, trust us. Dry off the machine before moving on.
6. You join a class but don’t follow along.
Joining a fitness class at your gym is a great way to take advantage of the amenities. If you’re having trouble following along, try your best instead of doing your own thing. This can be distracting for the instructor and classmates around you.
“A group fitness class is all about catching the collective rhythm, but sometimes there’s that one person dancing to their own beat,“Alysia Bebel, a certified barre instructor and the associate social media editor forEatingWellsaid. “Trust me, as a fitness instructor, I get the urge to freestyle, but here’s the deal: following along with the instructor keeps the energy flowing and avoids distracting the whole class. If you have an injury, don’t hesitate to chat with your instructor beforehand—most are more than happy to help you find the perfect modification without missing a beat!”
7. You try to start a conversation with someone else that has headphones in.
Love a friendly conversation, but take the hint: if someone next to you has two earbuds in, they’re in the zone. Don’t take them out of focus to talk about your day or to give them a compliment—and maybe consider that the gym isn’t the best place to give compliments. Bring a gym partner with you if you’d prefer being social.
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