The Gym Etiquette You Should Know
The gym can be an intimidating place. It’s full of written and unwritten rules, and equipment that can be difficult to navigate. Depending upon who you ask, the gym evokes different emotions that range from anxiety-producing to love and hatred. I fall in the ‘love’ category except for moments when I experience or observe some of the following scenarios:
Phone conversations: It is almost as if those who talk on their phones in the middle of the gym floor or on the treadmill want you to hear their conversation. The volume goes way up, and so, too, does the temperature of the people around you eye-rolling. If phones are permitted at all, there are designated areas for phone conversations. Use them. If you are talking on your phone in the middle of the gym, we hear you and we see you…. Yes, even if people have headphones on around you. I wear noise-cancelling headphones and can still hear you. This is a hard no.
Are you using this?: This question usually occurs right in the middle of using a squat rack, machine, or bench, like mid-exercise. Use common sense and wait. If someone is using their Air Pods/headphones and doesn’t answer, the same advice applies. Be respectful.
How long are you going to be?: The question isn’t inherently bad, the timing can be. It often happens the moment you put your water bottle down beside a machine, bench, or squat rack when you clearly are about to start your workout. This is not spot on and a very passive-aggressive way to show that you just missed out. If someone is working out in the middle of a busy time and has been there for a while, then that’s a different story.
The lemming: I can’t count how many times where I’ve observed or personally encountered the lack of understanding of personal space. There will be 30 free treadmills and someone ends up on the one beside the only person using one. Be mindful of others’ personal space. It’s not only about comfort, but also about focusing on your workout. No one wants to feel crowded, especially when it’s easy to pick another spot.
The lurker: Don’t hover. If you want to ask someone to work in with them, either ask them directly or wait. Don’t stand there watching and expecting them to read your mind just because you’re impatient. Respect their personal space and concentration zone, especially during challenging lifts. It’s not just about you so don’t ruin someone else’s workout experience.
The hog: Naturally, between sets and reps you need to take a break but don’t take a long extended break, especially during busy times on a popular machine. If someone is waiting, consider letting them work in between your sets. Don’t be a hog.
The peacock: Most gyms don’t allow it, but don’t be the peacock type of person filming videos or snapping selfies while working out (or, worse, in the change room!). If your gym is a rare one that allows it, make sure you don’t get anyone else in your videos and that you aren’t intruding on peoples’ space and making them feel uncomfortable.
The know-it-all: If you’re not a trainer, don’t offer advice. If you see that someone is using improper form that could lead to injury, it’s best to let a professional at the gym know rather than saying something directly.
If you aren’t an avid gym goer, you may be wondering: do people really do these things? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’! I’ve had some of these scenarios happen to me directly before and they really negatively impact your workout and experience.
The gym is a solo communal activity. Ideally, it should feel like a community – a place where people share the same goal of fitness, health, and wellness. It is a great place when everyone feels comfortable. Showing respect for shared spaces and fellow gym members helps create a positive environment where everyone can focus on their workout without unnecessary distractions or frustrations.
*This article is part of Astrid’s column in Glory Magazine (formerly Bay Street Bull).