Introduction
While the gym is all about pumping iron, getting sweaty and pushing yourself as hard as you can, there are some unwritten rules you want to follow. Break the code, and you will become “that guy” you never want to be, that will cause heads to turn, but not in a pleasant way. Here are some gym etiquette tips to make sure you don’t develop bad reputation:
#1 Keep It Clean
Although the whole point of gyms is going hard and sweating out calories, that doesn’t mean you should not think about your hygiene and about the environment!
First, have clean shoes, dedicated for the gym. Never workout in the same ones you came in. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, an old pair of Chuck Taylor’s will do, but they have to be clean.
Second, bring a towel, and use it! Cover every bench or machine you use, and make sure you wipe it after finishing. Also, when using cardio machines, wipe your head and face with that towel, don’t let your sweat go all over the place. And clean everything when you finish. Most gyms also have paper towels and something to wipe the machines, standing near the cardio section, so use that too.
If you are the type that sweats a lot, at least make sure you don’t stink. Wear a strong deodorant, and always come to the gym clean. Also, shower after your workouts, especially if you use public transportation.
#2 Keep It Quiet
Most gyms have music that is often too loud, and most have floors and equipment that is resistant to dropping. However, that doesn’t mean you should misuse it. Don’t be that guy that intentionally drops weights and screams like crazy on every rep, crying for attention.
While it is OK to sometimes drop the weight, for example when doing your deadlift 1RM, or to grunt when it gets heavy, doing it all the time will make you look stupid. What’s more, it might get you banned from the gym or even injured.
Make sure to retain total control throughout the lift. And go slower on the eccentric (lowering) portion of the lift, as it also contributes to hypertrophy.
#3 Keep It Short
If your workout lasts 2+ hours, you are probably not working hard enough. Although on its own that has nothing to do with other people at the gym, the way you workout does.
When you occupy a bench, power rack, treadmill, or any piece of equipment, use it and move on. Don’t spend 10 minutes between sets browsing Instagram or chatting with friends. Time your rests; they are a vital part of every workout. And if someone asks to join, let them and spot if necessary, be a good sport!
Conclusion
Let’s face it, you don’t want stinky, screaming animals that take up the full squat rack just to do biceps curls around you, so don’t be one of them. We at FitAndPsyched West Palm Beach make sure to keep our gym clean, and all of our clients know how to behave. If you want to join, don’t hesitate to contact, or visit us, and get your fitness journey started the right way.
