Gym Etiquette

The first rule is never to try and talk to somebody in the middle of their set. If they are straining for all it’s worth, the smallest distraction can mean a bad set or even an injury. Never talk to somebody – unless they want you to shout words of encouragement – during a heavy set. Wait until they finish.

Be brief – they’re there to workout and talking to you delays them from moving to the next set or exercise – don’t try to make long conversations with people unless they seem receptive.

Before trying to make friends, first go consistently for a month or so and show you know the basic rules of gym etiquette. This will help earn you a reputation as a serious person while endearing you to gym employees and members alike.

Another bad act is working out and blocking access to a machine or weight rack. This is infuriating because you are not only using weights they might need, but blocking them from doing another exercise. Always pick a clear spot to do your sets.

Sometimes, when the gym is really full, it’s necessary to share the apparatus you’re using. If you are using it by yourself, let others get a set in while resting.

This is not always appropriate – if you are doing a routine with very little rest, you may say, “I just got a few quick sets left – then it’s all yours.” They should understand.

If you want to “work in” as it’s called, be sure to ask first and don’t just jump on the machine. Also try to note how many people are already sharing the apparatus – if it’s two or more, better to wait until they are done, since letting you work in may make their rest periods too long.

Don’t forget to unload the apparatus you use – you might be fairly strong, but many people, including women, work with very low weight – so put the weights back on the racks.

Another thing a little more difficult to deal with is a continuous stream of advice from well meaning members. Take this with a grain of salt because almost everyone has a different opinion on how to work out, what’s the best form, how much weight to use, how many sets to do, etc…

Don’t say – however tempting – “That’s just the dumbest goddamn thing I ever heard,” when people offer weird advice. Nod your head, smile and say, “thanks – maybe I’ll try that next time.”

If you think they know what they are talking about, try a few sets like they recommend – they may just know something you don’t. But try to stick with the routines that the gym instructor gives you. And remember – it’s your workout.

If you’re really interested in these things, try looking on the Internet – you might be more confused afterwards than when you started, but at least you’ll have more information.

As you get to know people, you’ll find they are just like people everywhere – that is to say, very different. So keep this in mind and enjoy the good parts of each person rather than going around mentally discounting people for what you don’t like about them. This will make your stay much more pleasurable.

Most importantly, respect others, smile and be friendly. A compliment will win you a million friends and a criticism will do just the opposite. Compliments are free and oh so effective – nobody can seem to resist them.

Once you get into the group, you’ll find it a home away form home and will look forward to going rather than being glad to leave. But be considerate or find yourself isolated – not a nice feeling.

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