The 9 Spoken and Unspoken Rules of Proper Gym Etiquette
Key takeaways:
Proper gym etiquette promotes safety, good hygiene, respect, and community.
Gym etiquette is also based on the golden rule: treat others the way you want to be treated.
Leading by example can inspire other gym-goers to follow suit.
We all share a common bond at the gym. Everyone shares the goal of improving themselves, whether they want to build muscle, increase flexibility, or relieve stress.
But like all shared spaces, from restaurants to airplanes, the gym requires proper etiquette. "The gym isn't a playground or free-for-all," says Katie Kollath, certified personal trainer and co-founder of Barpath Fitness in Golden, Colorado. "You want to make sure you are being respectful to the other gym-goers and their personal space."
9 tips for proper etiquette when working out at the gym
The rules for proper etiquette may vary from one gym to another, so it's best to familiarize yourself with that gym's protocols before your first sweat session. "They're almost always found on a wall somewhere," says Mark Bohannon, a Washington, D.C.-based certified personal trainer and senior vice president of North American operations at Ultimate Performance.
Save over 40% on Qsymia with GoodRx
Discover the once daily Qsymia for weight management. Qsymia is for adults and children 12-17 in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
That said, there are some general rules that everyone should follow. Read on for a guide to basic gym etiquette.
1. Always ask
The gym is full of shared spaces and tools, from cardio machines to free weights. Be sure to ask people nearby if a piece of equipment is available before taking what you want. That way, you won't invade anyone's personal space or grab something they had dibs on.
Doing this "shows respect and consideration for their workout," says Nicole Thompson, a Fremont, California-based certified personal trainer and medical exercise specialist. "It can also help avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts."
2. Put your weights back
There are few things more frustrating than walking into a gym that looks chaotic and unorganized. Most people have limited time at the gym and want to maximize what they can do in that period. No one wants to waste time searching for dumbbells that are scattered about or taking the weight plates off a barbell because previous users left them there.
"This seems fairly obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people don't replace the weights after use," Bohannon says. Equipment left on the floor is untidy and can be a hazard.
When you return the equipment, "everyone will have their chance to use it for their own workout," Kollath says. And it can make everyone’s workout safer and more efficient.
Read more like this
Explore these related articles, suggested for readers like you.
3. Respect everyone's personal space
This is self-evident, but it bears repeating: you're not the only one in the room. "Be aware of others and their workout, and avoid behaviors that may distract or disturb them," Thompson says. Do your best to ensure you’re not taking up too much space and your movements won't interfere with anyone in the surrounding area.
"This has become especially important during and after the COVID-19 pandemic," says Thompson. "Some people still prefer social distancing, and that should be respected." Plus, this helps prevent injuries or issues from, say, a dropped barbell or a swinging kettlebell.
If you want to ask if a person is done with a machine or tool, wait until they have finished their current set, Bohannon recommends.
4. Use your phone (and its camera) respectfully
To help yourself and others concentrate on working out,and to ensure you're not monopolizing equipment, save phone conversations for after the gym. Always use headphones for music, and be discreet with selfies.
"If you're going to take pictures at the gym, try to look for an empty group fitness room or take it outside of the building," Thompson suggests. "Snapping selfies in the gym can be distracting to others and can get in the way of their workout."
To be respectful of people’s privacy, make sure that you don't capture others in your pictures.
5. Wipe down equipment before and after use
We go to the gym to get and stay healthy. Cleaning equipment after you use it is part of helping everyone achieve this goal.
"Wiping down your equipment is a no-brainer, especially since we all just went through a pandemic," Kollath says. "Leaving your sweat and your germs on the equipment in the gym for others to touch is a nearly surefire way to spread illnesses."
Cleaning gym equipment frequently can also prolong its lifespan. "If your gym does not provide them, make sure you bring your own towel, and wipe down the equipment after you've used it," Bohannon says. If you're worried that a piece of equipment wasn’t recently sanitized, you should also wipe it down before use
6. Don't hog the equipment
"Use the equipment and put it back; it's as simple as that," Kollath says. "Hogging equipment can create a negative gym culture where people are not respectful of people's time and energy."
Be mindful of the time you spend using a piece of equipment or a specific space in the gym. If you constantly spend your time at one machine, “consult with a certified personal trainer at your gym to learn about different types of workouts and create a balanced exercise program," Thompson adds.
7. Study up on gym sauna etiquette
"Sauna rules and etiquette will usually be posted in the locker room and should be followed," Thompson says. "If the rules [or] etiquette is unclear, ask a staff member [or] locker room attendant."
Sound levels, space, and dress code are key here. It's mainly about not disturbing the collective time for relaxation. Don't use your tech tools, keep the noise down, and make sure to wear a towel, robe, or swimsuit. Choose a seat at a safe distance from others to avoid disturbing the peace. By following these guidelines, everyone can enjoy the benefits of the sauna.
8. Swim with care
Some of the biggest gym etiquette mistakes can occur in and around the pool. Take a shower before wading in, Thompson says, to "maintain a clean and hygienic environment and reduce the amount of chemicals needed to sanitize the water."
Then, be sure to follow the posted pool rules, which often include restrictions on diving, attire, or specific swim strokes. Don't splash, push, or horseplay in or around the pool, and be sure to ask before joining anyone else's lane.
9. Be considerate in the locker room
Making space is key in the locker room, especially when you or others are changing clothes or just getting into or out of the shower, Kollath says. "Not everyone will be comfortable with naked people walking around, so be respectful and mindful of that," she says.
In addition, Thompson suggests following these best practices for gym locker room etiquette:
Use lockers to store personal belongings and valuables, rather than leaving them on the floor, benches, or counters.
Wipe down counters and other surfaces after use.
Wear appropriate clothing and cover up in communal areas.
Stay off your phone.
Why is gym etiquette important?
Gym etiquette rules aren't in place to be a nuisance, Thompson explains. They promote:
Safety: Re-racking weights and using equipment properly helps prevent accidents and injuries on the gym floor. Wiping up drips around the pool or locker room can prevent falls.
Hygiene: "Gyms can be breeding grounds for germs," says Thompson, so "wiping down equipment is crucial for personal health and the well-being of others."
Respect: By following proper gym etiquette, you show respect for your fellow gym-goers and your surroundings. This creates a more pleasant atmosphere for everyone. "Treat the environment as you would want others to treat it," Thompson says.
Community: "The gym floor [should be an] inclusive and welcoming place where anyone, regardless of their experience or ability, should feel at home," Bohannon says. People should be able to work toward their goals without fear, intimidation, or anxiety. Observing proper gym etiquette plays a huge part in making that happen.
The bottom line
By following proper gym etiquette, you can help maintain a positive fitness environment for all while getting the most out of your gym experience. Plus, you'll set a good example for your community.
“Etiquette begets etiquette. Members are more likely to practice the aforementioned [rules] if they see others practicing them," Thompson says. "Ask yourself if you want to be part of the problem or solution. Lead by example so everyone, including yourself, can have a fun, respectful, safe, and healthy gym experience."
Why trust our experts?
