Gym etiquette: how to behave during a workout

Gym etiquette isn’t rocket science — it’s simply a sensible agreement that lets everyone train in peace. Even so, everyone who has ever worked out has a story that sticks in the mind: someone chatting on a bench for 10 minutes and not budging, or blocking the dumbbell rack so nobody else can get to it. Here are the most important rules, which newcomers and seasoned lifters alike should keep in mind.

Why does gym etiquette matter?

In a perfect world, everyone would think about others’ wellbeing 100% of the time. In the real world, people lose track of time chatting on a machine, do side flexions right in front of the dumbbell rack, and talk on the phone so loudly that the music is drowned out.

That doesn’t mean people are bad — most of the time they simply don’t think about it. There will certainly be differing opinions on some points, but common sense and tolerance make the training environment better for everyone. A membership gives you the right to use the equipment, not to block it needlessly from time to time.

What to definitely avoid in the gym

Let’s start with the things that annoy other people the most.

• Don’t leave used equipment covered in sweat — wipe the machine down with a towel or paper. Nobody wants to clean up a stranger’s sweat.
• Don’t sit on a machine you’re not using, especially when the gym is crowded.
• Don’t hog a spot by chatting for too long between sets — especially if it’s the only such machine in the gym.
• Don’t train too close to a machine you’re not using. Don’t block the aisle or other people’s access to the equipment.
• Don’t interrupt someone in the middle of a set by talking to them. Wait until they’ve finished their set.
• Don’t walk too close past people lifting heavy weights — it breaks their concentration and is dangerous.
• Don’t ignore another lifter’s request to use the same machine you’re currently sitting on during your rest break.
• Don’t leave dumbbells or weights lying on the floor — put them back in their proper place after use.
• Don’t take over a machine that someone has only stepped away from for a moment. Make sure the previous person has really finished — maybe they just went for a drink.
• Put your phone on silent. A phone ringing every 5 minutes disturbs the whole gym. If you aren’t expecting an important call, leave your phone in the locker room.

Gym etiquette — what to do right

Etiquette isn’t only about avoiding things. It’s also about actively caring for other people’s training experience.

• Be aware of your surroundings — let others pass and reach the equipment.
• Take care of your hygiene. Nobody enjoys sniffing a training shirt that hasn’t been washed in two weeks.
• Ask permission to use a machine when another lifter is resting between sets.
• Let others use the machine while you rest. If another lifter looks inexperienced, make the offer yourself — they may simply feel awkward.
• Always ask whether the person has finished with the machine before you start using it. Don’t assume.
• Politely ask people to move if they’re crowding you or blocking access to the equipment.
• Be as polite as you can — it costs you something, but it makes the whole gym feel better.
• If the gym is full, train wherever there’s room. If you can do the same exercise elsewhere and free up the machine, do so.
• Be reasonable and fair in different situations.
• Be tolerant of those who don’t yet know as much.

Honestly, there’s nothing complicated here. Most of these rules come down to one thing: think of others too.

FAQ

Why should you wipe down machines after others in the gym?

Sweat spreads bacteria. Respecting other lifters also means leaving the machine cleaner than you found it. That keeps everyone healthier and the gym more pleasant to use.

Can you use a machine that someone else is currently using?

Always ask permission. If the other lifter is resting between sets, most people are happy to share — but it’s polite to ask rather than assume. Usually the answer is yes.

What should you do if someone breaks gym etiquette?

The first option is to speak to them politely and directly — most of the time they simply haven’t thought about it, and the person will correct their behavior. If that doesn’t help, talk to the gym staff. Picking a fight is never a good idea.

As you can see, this is no rocket science — it’s about staying reasonable and respectful. It’s very easy to pay your membership fee and consider yourself the host of the gym. But it’s worth remembering that we aren’t the only ones trying to train there.

Happy lifting, everyone!

Author: Greta

Come and work out! ArtGym