The gym has become one of the most popular social environments on the planet. Unfortunately it seems like many people forget all about their social skills and manners when they walk through the front door.
We’ve outlined a few simple dos and don’ts (mostly don’ts) of gym etiquette. Make sure you pat attention to what your workout headphones have to do with gym etiquette as this is one of our biggest pet peeves.
Common Sense Gym Etiquette
There are a few common practices that everyone should be utilizing when they visit the gym. Typically it’s the guys the end up making most of the mistakes, which is odd because they work out the most so they should know the unwritten rules of the gym! But ladies you’re not off the hook either, so make sure you pay attention as well.
Don’t…
Stay on the machine too long. There are a lot of other people in the gym, many of which are probably waiting to use a specific machine or lifting area. So, if you’re spending more than 10 minutes in one area you’re doing something wrong and you’re likely making more than a few people mad.
Don’t…
Use the gym as a dating service. The gym is not your personal pick up parlor. You’re there to work out. Guys, we know it’s hard not to approach the gorgeous blonde in the daisy dukes, but trust us, you’re better off waiting until after the workout. But just an FYI, stalking is not a good thing either…
Don’t…
Blast your music in your workout headphones so loud the entire gym can hear it. No offense, but most people don’t like the same music as you. Sure, Eminem is great and we’re glad he gets you pumped up for you next lift, but no one wants to hear that. If you’re having to crank up your volume so loud that multiple people around you can hear your tunes then you’re likely damaging your ears for starters, and you definitely need a new pair of headphones because quality headphones should never have to be blasted to achieve good sound.
Make sure to check out some of our best picks for gym headphones if this sounds like you.
Do…
Realize there are other people around you. You’re not the only person in the gym, nor are you the most important person there. Consider the people around you and realize they pay the same amount you do to workout. So whether you like them or not, be respectful.
Last, but not least, whatever you do, shower before you workout. Stinking up all the equipment or an entire area of the gym is probably the grossest thing you could do. And do you really want to be known as “that guy who smells like trash” to everyone at the gym? We didn’t think so.