Gym Etiquette 101 - 10 Tips To Prevent You From Looking Like a Newbie

It’s that time of year again. You are either reestablishing old workout habits or starting up some new ones.  Congratulations, that is terrific! Either way, it may have been a while since you  have been to the gym. Here are some fitness etiquette rules that will help this be a positive experience for all.

1. Don’t tie up weight equipment while texting. We get it, a lot of people send a text or check their SM updates but make sure you don't lose track of time. Sitting on equipment while you are busy crafting that new post will get you more than a few dirty looks - especially if it is the only piece of equipment of its kind in the gym.
2. Don’t drop or slam weights.  Actually this one is a good reminder even for regulars. The saying goes, “if you are strong enough to pick it up, you should be strong enough to put it down.”  That being said their may be times the weights get away from you or you are avoiding injury. This is referring more to the repetitive dropping and slamming of weights that deafens and irritates everyone around you.
3. Clean up after yourself. While sweating is good for you, it’s not as good for others who use the equipment after you. Don't leave your sweat, hair gel or anything else for that matter on the benches, seats, or cardio equipment. I guarantee the next person to use that equipment won’t appreciate it.
4. Be polite. If the gym is crowded and you are sitting on the equipment between sets, check around to see if someone is waiting for you to finish. Feel free to ask if they want to work in during your rests. Just hope that the person who works in understands the system and doesn't just do all of their sets at once. Trust me it happens.
5. Maintain equipment time limits. If you have been on a piece of equipment for 30 minutes or more it may be time to move on. You can always come back if you want to do another exercise.
6. Less Talky, More Lifty. We get it, the gym is a social place but most people have a limited amount of time to complete their workouts.  Enough said.
7. Volume control. Phones and music are great. They make you feel like you are connected or transported elsewhere . But you aren’t. You are still at the gym and we can hear you . If you must sing out loud, keep it soft.  And we really don't want to be part of your conference call.
8. Wear appropriate gym attire. No need to have the latest Lululemon or Nike outfit, just make sure whatever you wear is designed for exercise and covers you up appropriately. Double check in the mirror from different angles, check seams and for holes in the wrong places. You may be sharing more than you realize.
9. Take the time to learn to use equipment properly.  Almost every gym has staff that is there to show you how to use equipment to get the benefits you want and avoid injury.  You can also ask someone who looks like they work out regularly.  People are usually happy to help.  It’s for your own safety.
10. This one is more of my own pet peeves. Focus! You got to the gym, that is the hardest part. Now that you're there, make it count. A little mind-body connection can yield far greater results.  Take this time for you and think about the muscles you are using.  I promise it will make the process more enjoyable and beneficial.