Do You Have Good Gym Etiquette?

Most gyms have their own set of written and unwritten rules, but there are also general courtesies to be aware of when you're training around other people and in shared areas. It’s easy to get caught up in your workout and forget there are other people around.

What is good gym etiquette?

Good gym etiquette means being thoughtful of other people who share your gym - whether they work out at the same time as you or come in after. Here are some tips to make sure your gym manners are on point or could do with a little polishing.

Be respectful of other users

When you visit the gym, remember you are there to workout, just like everyone else. That means we all have to be mindful of each other. That’s really not too difficult! Most gym etiquette is common sense: tidy up after yourself, share the equipment and be polite. Simple.

During peak gym hours, equipment is usually in high demand. If you and your workout buddy are taking up more pieces of equipment than you can use at one time, you might get a few annoyed looks. After all, it is a bit frustrating to make people wait unnecessarily! On the other hand, let people have some breathing room when the gym isn’t busy. If there are plenty of free machines, leave a gap between you and the other person working out.

Be mindful of your personal hygiene

This isn’t gym-specific, but there is a lot more sweat to deal with during gym visits. Try to think of the people around you. Deodorant and showering is a must to keep body odor under control, and many gyms have a no-sweat-towel-no-workout rule. Depending on where you live, it also pays to check if you need a mask to enter the facility or workout.

Value the gym's equipment

Your gym has invested a lot of money in the equipment you are using. If you are dropping weights, slamming equipment or generally being rough with it, you are being rude to your fellow gym goers and to the gym owner. Use gym equipment the way it’s meant to be used and everyone will be much happier.

Some extra gym etiquette tips:

• Don’t leave sweat all over the machines — bring a sweat towel to each workout and wipe it down before you move on to the next piece of equipment. Gyms usually have free wipes available too.

• Don’t take phone calls — everyone in the gym can hear your conversation, and it can be really disruptive. If you need to take a call, head outside.

• Don’t leave weights lying around — unless someone has asked to use them right after you, pack the weights away once you’re finished. Leaving your equipment out not only creates a job for someone else, but it can be a hazard too.

• Try not to interrupt someone’s workout — it’s distracting and you don’t want to cause an injury.

• If you're attending a group fitness class, avoid showing up late — it affects the whole class and is a bit rude to the instructor, so try to be on time.

General courtesy goes a long way when you’re in the gym. Being mindful that everyone is here for similar reasons can help make the gym a more enjoyable place to be, for everyone!