Gym Etiquette: What NOT to do at your local gym

A man working out in a gym lifting heavy weights while a woman is encouraging him. They exhibit good gym etiquette.

I’ve been going to the gym for more than ten years and I’ve been noticing some very strange behavior throughout this time. Certainly, I know I’m not the only person witnessing this since many people have shared their stories with me. In some ways I suppose this is to be expected with every new generation of individuals that enter the fitness world, but then again, rude behavior and a lack of social skills cannot be considered a “new normal”.

So, what is normal gym behavior?

Traditionally, the main reason why people go to the gym is to stay healthy and achieve personal goals such as building muscle and losing fat in a like-minded, community environment. The gym was meant to be a place where everyone can put their guard down, be themselves, and enjoy the opportunity for physical exercise as a way to de-stress from school, work, and other social responsibilities. The gym should be a place of peace, like a Zen Garden but with dumbbells. To me, this is what normal is.

What started this issue?

Well, let me begin by sharing some important details. Perhaps “not” normal behavior depends on the country you reside in, cultural norms, or expectations relating to the aftermath of the Covid-19 Pandemic, and so on. I am aware that many people are very lonely and feel empty inside. Also, some people have undeveloped social skills, which can be more noticeable at the gym.

Certainly, the desire for human interaction is innate and deeply needed by everyone. But, that is why respect, and harmony should remain a priority. For this reason, gym etiquette must be talked about.

Who is responsible for this?

As human beings, we are perfectly “imperfect”, and we’re all on our own journey through life. Some of us were brought up with manners and others were not. Nevertheless, we can all take some responsibility for a lack of etiquette in the gym, especially when we’re really distracted or having a bad day.

Luckily, when enough people behave properly, a standard is set and the mature members of a gym set the tone for what is acceptable. However, for those people who don’t know better this list should be a great place to start.

What is acceptable behavior at the gym?

We have compiled a list that was given to us by many gym members over the last few years. This list is not designed to be a comprehensive rule book but rather a guideline for everyone to consider. Our goal is to communicate these truths and unify the gym community. So whether you’re a member at Equinox, Gold’s Gym, LA Fitness, or anywhere else, we believe you’ll find this list helpful.

Note: this list is frequently updated with the latest concerns and encouragements.

Conclusion

When you read the list, did you immediately think of someone or something you’ve seen recently? Or did you read something that you haven’t considered before? Well, there are a lot of things we all need to work on when it comes to working out with people you don’t know. That is why gym etiquette is vital to maintain good relationships with fellow gym members. You want to make an impression by your good behavior, not your physique.

The next time you’re at the gym, and you observe someone doing something on this list that comes off as disrespectful. Try not to get upset. Many people do not have knowledge of gym etiquette and as a result they can easily be misunderstood for being rude and selfish. Try to be graceful and stay focused on your purpose for being at the gym, harmony is important, but respect is the ultimate goal no matter where we are.

If you enjoyed this post, please feel free to share it. Together we can make the gym a better place!

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