Do You Know Gym Etiquette?

Who likes to work out? Surprisingly, some people actually enjoy getting in shape. Going to the gym can be motivating as you always see people with the same objective. Some clearly do a better job at exercising than you however everyone should follow the same rules to respect others.

Why should you practice ethics when going to the gym? It's to keep others safe and healthy. I'll explain what I mean by going over some practical tips.

Always be friendly to the staff. You might be extra hot on the treadmill and if you were nice, the staff might point the oscillating fan in your direction.

Keep a hand towel with you at all times. Use this to wipe off your sweat so you don't spray the equipment with it. When you're done with the equipment, be sure to wipe your sweat off of the machine. If it's on the floor, seat, back of the seat or handle bar, be sure to clean it off. If you don't want to use the same towel you wipe your brow with, then carry an extra towel.

If the machines you are using are full and there are others that want to use them, be cognizant of the time you have been on the machine. If you have been on it for over 30 minutes, consider allowing someone else a turn. If others have been on their machine longer, don't ask them to get off. Offering someone else a chance to use the machine will likely influence the others to share their machines if they have been on them too long.

Wear flip-flops in the changing room and shower. Athlete's foot is a common term for a reason. Spare everyone the itching and burning by protecting your feet and others by wearing flip-flops.

Don't take up the entire bench for your belongings unless you are the only one in the room. Spreading your items out can be good but the truth of the matter is, you're taking up space that someone else needs to either sit or set their belongings.

Especially for women, be discreet when changing in and out of your clothing. You may be proud of your body while others may be uncomfortable either revealing themselves to others or being revealed to. If you face the lockers while you change, you're respecting others and if they have to see something, they'd probably rather see your backside than your front. This could be the case for men also.

If you work full time and exercise during your lunch period, take a quick shower. Respect others and remember your deodorant. No one wants to smell your stinky gym scent for the rest of the day.

Now, go to the gym, remember your etiquette and get into shape. Who knows, maybe you'll motivate others to exercise and be healthy. Happy workout!