The Comprehensive Guide to Proper Gym Etiquette

Improper gym etiquette remains a tremendous source of frustration for avid exercisers across the country. As a personal trainer and bootcamp instructor, I would like to offer a simple guide to enhance our individual fitness experience and the enjoyment of those around us.

Leave No Trace: Inherently, gyms serve as breeding grounds for the exchange of germs, illness, and disease. In order to minimize the potential threat to others, always utilize the gym's towels and disinfectant sprays to clean perspiration off of personally-used equipment, mats, and treadmills. Make sure to return towels to their respective bin and dispose of all trash to ensure as clean of fitness center as possible. Also, a personal reusable water bottle remains a great "green" option to reduce our individual eco-footprint. Furthermore, always remember to re-rack weights after use and return all equipment to its original place, in order to ensure a smooth transition for the next potential user.

Hygiene Helps: Although perspiration (and subsequent body odor) emerges as inevitable, simple preventative measures, such as deodorant, should never be ignored. Most gyms offer shower facilities; use them! In the locker room, remain courteous to others by keeping "personal exposure" to a minimum, necessary level.

Personal Space Points of Emphasis: Always remember to share, especially during peak hours and when using high-demand equipment. Become more efficient and develop a workout plan ahead of time, instead of loitering between sets, particularly when others may be waiting. In the free-weight area, allow ample space for others to perform their movements and do not block the dumbbell rack while lifting. Additionally, always ask a fellow exerciser if a piece of equipment is in use, prior to stripping the weight from it. Personal music should play at a volume only audible to the individual, especially in a more subdued setting. Extensive phone conversations or text messaging may also serve as a distraction to others, while exercising. Lastly, remaining mindful of our discussion topics and language also helps ensure an enjoyable training experience for all.

Safety First: We do everyone a favor by familiarizing ourselves with the rules at our respective gyms, and following them consistently. As a trainer, a major suggestion for beginners is to never attempt an exercise or use equipment you are untrained or unfamiliar with using. Enlist the gym's staff for guidance to ensure a safe and effective workout experience.

These are just a few simple tips to display courteous, care, and cleanliness. Ultimately, personally practicing these suggestions should serve as a model towards others, while improving our overall gym experience.