by Elyse Williams

Created on: October 14, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Gym Etiquette- a quick guide to Do's and Don'ts for any workout facility.

Whether a large workout chain, or a small local gym, one should always observe basic etiquette. Most of the "rules" below are common sense; however it is important to remember that everyone should have the same set guidelines. This can further enhance your workout and make your visit to the gym an enjoyable experience.

When people go to the gym, most are serious about working out. Although it can be a social setting, the majority of people have a regimen and they want to get through their scheduled work-outs. Here are some "do's and don'ts" that anyone can remember when going to basically any gym. Keep in mind; this is just a basic guideline to follow. Naturally you want to treat others the way you wish to be treated.

Locker rooms:/showers

Do: Keep a lock on your locker- make sure all your personal belongings are locked up

Don't: leave a mess of water when exiting the shower. Also, don't leave anything lying around on the floor.

Do: When showering, remember you are not at home. Short and sweet, if other people are waiting for the showers as well.

Gym Floor Etiquette:

Do: ALWAYS wipe down the machine when you are finished with it

Don't: Be talking on cell phones during your workout- keep the cell phone in your locker or turned off

Don't: Spend more than the allotted time on a machine,

Do: Be courteous of those who are waiting for machine use (See above)

Don't: Be socializing around equipment (save socialization for before or after work-out)

Do: ALWAYS have a spotter for heavy weight lifting. Also, offer to "swap" spotting positions with someone else. NEVER lift heavy weights alone.

Do: Be careful with water bottles- make sure they are covered so they don't spill

Don't: Carry more than allowed on the floor- (a small towel, a water bottle and your music player is all you should require)

If the gym has special classes (i.e. aerobics, step):

Do: Arrive for the class on time. Stay the whole class.

Do: Be courteous to the instructor

Do: Try your very best- even if you can't keep up

Don't: Talk excessively to others

Don't: Take your cell to class with you

In/out of the pool:

Do: Shower before and after your swim

Do: make sure you stay in lane for lap swims

Don't: Splash others or otherwise engage in distractions to those who are trying to work out in the pool

Do: Make sure that you leave your towel and belongings in the designated area(s)

General Etiquette:

Do: Be courteous to other staff members, obey signs and policies

Do: HAVE FUN and enjoy your workout!

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