by Courtney Keskinen

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Making that important decision to increase your health and wellness through joining a gym is a fantastic step forward in your life. However, it is important to remember that you are paying your monthly dues to utilize equipment in a public place that is used by other individuals. Therefore, proper care and respect should be taken in what is known as "gym etiquette."

Depending on the time of day, an individual may find themselves virtually working out alone or in a crowded gym with others waiting for available machines. It is essential to always respect others and NEVER skip ahead in a line. An individual who skips in a line is only creating an air of dishonesty, awkwardness and breaking the comraderie of working out in a public gym. Most of the time, if you respect others then they will respect you - apply the Golden Rule: Treat others how you would want to be treated.

Cell phones should be left in a locker or in the car. There is no place for them in a public gym. If an individual is truly there to improve his/her health and wellness, phone calls will be the last thing on their mind. Others who are trying to focus on their workout do not need to hear your phone calls. Not to mention, most individuals will not get their money's worth for a workout if they are focusing on a phone conversation instead of exercise.

It is also important to take proper care of a machine while you are using it and when you are finished. Ask for assistance if you are not familiar with a particular machine. Do not try to "climb on and start pressing buttons." This can greatly increase your risk of injury and/or damage to the machine. When finished, remember to wipe across the areas of the machine you come into contact with during utilization. Most gyms will provide towels or wipes for this purpose. "Wiping down" the machine will reduce the spread of germs to others who may use the machine after you. Remember, your dues pay for the maintenance/"upkeep" of machines and equipment so take care to respect the gym property.

Many gyms offer personal training and special fitness classes. It is beneficial to take advantage of these offerings but it is very important to be punctual. A class or session must begin on time to stay on schedule. Entering a class late can break the focus of the instructor or the others who are attending. Careful attention must be paid to respect the time of others as well as your own. Coming in early/on time will also ensure you get the most of your fitness experience.

If you have signed up for a class or personal training session, that spot was reserved for you and likely may have gone to someone else if you could not attend. So, depending on the formality of the class/session, please notify the gym if you are unable to make the appointment prior to the assigned time. This will allow another to have the opportunity and will not waste the time of an hourly employee such as a personal trainer who relies on one-on-one sessions with clients.

All in all, working out at a gym can be a very rewarding experience and a way to make good friends with a like-minded approach to fitness. Take the time to be respectful, punctual and responsible with your workout routine and your facility and you will be on your way to a lifetime of improved health and wellness!

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