January being a month of resolutions and usually fitness resolutions rounding off as some of the top ones. I thought it would be nice to have a little reminder on Gym Etiquette. So my ode to you lovelies who are new to the gym, who are re-sparking the gym or even those who a long timers but aren't sure about all and all.
*Eau de DON'T
Perfume and cologne is lovely and I adore it so, but there is a time and place for everything. Now drenching yourself with your favorite La Vie Est Belle perfume and your neighbor a few machines down prefers Jo Malone. Now add a few more hundred people and their favorites fragrances along with a healthy dose of sweat. Well then doesn't that just smell lovely. Proper gym etiquette would be to wear deodorant and be done until after your session and shower.
*Check yourself twice.
I see it to often women and men wearing items that are not to be worn for working out. I've seen men wearing jeans, and women wear entirely see through tights that were clearly mistaken as yoga pants. Constantly getting flashed by your hot pink panties are not your intent ( unless it is) is not typically the environment you want to set yourself or those around you. Proper gym etiquette would have you check your attire twice from every angle before hitting the gym.
*Not time to be a superstar
When taking classes at the gym it can be loads of fun getting into the groove. Yet constantly overdoing it, making up your own routine despite the instructor is a bit to much. If you are interested in being a leader in a class then consider asking the gym if they are hiring. Proper Gym Etiquette would allow the instructor to shine considering it is their class and not you.
*Be Honest
If you are new be sure to tell the instructor before the class that you are. Or if you have a specific injury let them know also. They are there to help you and can suggest modifications to help you not get yourself hurt. Also if you are new to a gym usually be sure to have an employee to go over equipment with you. Everyone was a newbie once. Better to learn to do things correctly versus getting hurt.
*Selfie Nation
I understand we live in a selfie generation. I have been guilty of some, but please be aware of your selfies. Taking a selfie while holding up your shirt in the mirror of your six pack screams self-absorbed. There is a difference between self absorbed and pride in your achievement...we just don't need to see it in the middle of the gym. Also be considerate in your selfie of the people around you. Not everyone appreciates being your social media. Proper Gym Etiquette would be to snap your photo when in the privacy of your home.
*No Hovering
Being mindful of personal space, and intimidating others while on machines.
Proper Gym Etiquette would be when people are working on the machines don't hover them as a bee. Allow them to breathe and do their routine at ease and not feel as if Sting is watching every move they make, and every step they take. When they are done the feel free to lay claim to that said machine.
*Clean after Yourself
When you are doe with your machine Proper Gym Etiquette would make sure you wipe down the machine with the proper cleaners usually provided by the gym. When you are sweating from everywhere your hands sweat too. So please be mindful of others and your sweat.
*Proper Spacing
When choosing your machine to work Proper Gym Etiquette would have you choose 2 machines down from the other members. Unless if it packed and the only machine available is smack dab in the middle or empty enough to have the pick of the litter.
*Bubbler Time
Being considerate to others it's a running theme. Proper Gym Etiquette would be that if you are at the water bubbler and you have a jug to fill be aware. If there is someone behind you with no jug allow them to go before you, then fill up the jug
*Privacy
Respecting others privacy and honest your own. Be considerate of others. Not everyone can handle when others walk around in the nude. Makes them uncomfortable. Proper Gym Etiquette would have you cover up properly no matter how much of your body might resemble a greek god.
*It is not a Concert
As easy as it is to get caught up in a great sound the thing is not everyone wants to hear your lovely singing voice (or lack of in my case) Proper Gym Etiquette would have you work out fiercely and quietly.
*Last but not least
After you have established yourself and are much more comfortable at the gym be considerate if you see another newbie. Proper Gym Etiquette would have you honor them and possibly give them a helping hand.
Do you have any to suggest? What are your pet peeves at the gym? Did I miss one, do you have a question? Let me know.
(image from Projectionhub)
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