by Kyle Rolf

Created on: January 18, 2009

For those of us that take part in working out at the local gym or health club, we all tend to notice the same groups of people. To narrow it down, the annoying and/or rude crowd. Here are some tips I have learned over the years through experience as well as some insight from others to avoid joining this club.

1.) Work your body - not your jaw

Quite commonly do we see or hear the stock-broker like individual on the blue tooth headset that seems to pace the gym working nothing more than his ability to offend others that are 'in the zone'. Instead of answering your phone, store it in the locker facilities that are generally provided at most fitness centers or leave it in the car. You'll be more productive at the gym, and will finish much quicker than you would placing or receiving calls like the aforementioned individual above. If you must have your phone with you, take the calls outside where you won't be a distraction or obstacle.

2.) If you bring a workout partner, make sure its a benefit and not a hassle.

It is common practice to bring a friend or partner to the gym, whether it be for motivational purposes or training help. In my opinion, you are helping contribute to a healthier society by doing so! Just make sure to keep it productive (do we sense a theme coming along yet?). Too often do I notice partners simply shooting the breeze and using a piece of equipment that either myself or another gym-goer would like to use to move the workout along. Friends can be friends, but save the gossip for outside the gym please. As for couples, don't let the phrase "get a room" be associated with you.

3.) Tone down the energy

I understand what it feels like to be excited to workout or in the midst of a great session. The power is flowing through your veins, the intensity is raw and sometimes you can't help yourself when it comes to being enthusiastic. Instead of causing a scene that everyone inside and out of the facility can witness, use that energy in your workout to pump another rep out or run that extra mile. It's not that people are jealous of the fact that you are enjoying your workout, but as mentioned earlier when people are focused they would rather not be distracted by the individual hooting and hollering about a workout achievement.

4.) Dress appropriately

There will be times at the gym when you cannot help but stare at the individual dressed like Richard Simmons in the '80s. Not to say one should care about current fashion trends, but when it boils down to the shorts that can be mistaken as a loin-cloth, a change is in order. Gym goers are well aware of the germs that can be spread through equipment use, and your choice of a tank-top (aka "wife-beater") with flood shorts might earn you some distasteful glances and some unkind comments. As for women, its a place of health improvement, not a beauty contest. Dress to perform, not to impress.

Hopefully with these few tips you can manage to get your workout complete without ruining the workout of those surrounding you.

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