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- 4th March, 2015
Why do we go to the gym? To look good and feel even better, of course! But remember that the gym is a communal space to be shared by everyone, and that means you should bring your gym manners to the party.
At ifeelgood24/7, we’re pretty relaxed, but that doesn’t mean you should treat other gym junkies or our dedicated team of health and fitness professionals like your mum. Our staff are nice, but not that nice. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of gym dos, providing some simple tips on proper gym etiquette to make sure your work out session is rewarding and hassle-free (and to help you get a great workout without stepping on anyone’s toes).
The Dos
Clean up after yourself (sweat & weight re-racking)
Smashed your cross fit workout? Awesome job! But before you head for your well-deserved shower, you’d better take a quick look at the equipment you just used. That glistening pool of sweat’s going to need wiping up and spraying with sanitiser (this goes for ALL workout machines and equipment, from chest presses to bikes and treadmills).
Make sure you put weights back where they go on the racks neatly, too. You can’t just assume the next person will put them away or wipe down that wet machine seat! Think about it, would you like to deal with another person’s butt sweat? Nada, not a chance.
Use appropriate levels of antiperspirant
It feels great to go hard and work up a sweat, but keep in mind that you’ll be working up a scent too. Proper gym etiquette is to always put on deodorant before hitting the gym, but don’t overdo it — overpowering fragrances, aftershaves and lotions can mess with people’s allergies and asthma. Neutral is usually the best way to go if you don’t want to end up smelling like a bath bomb or yeti.
Respect others’ space
Ever worked out at a near empty gym, blissfully unaware of the people around you, when suddenly a stranger hops onto the treadmill beside you, killing your mojo and making you feel self-conscious? Trust me; you don’t want to be that guy. That guy has a case of bad gym etiquette. If you can help it, go for equipment one or two spaces away from someone else so that everyone can feel comfortable and focus on their workout.
Wear appropriate clothing
If you’re heading to the gym, it’s best to leave your tiny see-through pants and G-string at home (where only your partner or cat can see you wear them). Most strangers don’t want to have to look at your butt, even if it does look like Kim Kardashian’s. Please wear clean, workout friendly clothing that’s appropriate for a public place — for girls, this might mean wearing a shirt over your sports bra. For guys, this might mean wearing a shirt. Clean footwear is also a part of proper gym etiquette, as dirty shoes can actually damage our floors or ruin certain types of equipment. Wearing clean socks with your sneakers will help you win the battle against sweat and odour.
Next week we’ll be discussing Eye of the Tiger and smartphone use when we post about gym etiquette don’ts. Stay tuned!
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As a seasoned fitness and health enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I understand the nuances of effective workouts and the importance of proper gym etiquette. My expertise stems from a combination of personal training, academic knowledge in exercise physiology, and a keen interest in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Now, let's delve into the concepts and advice presented in the provided article on gym etiquette:
1. Clean Up After Yourself
The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean and sanitary gym environment. This involves wiping down equipment after use, particularly if it's covered in sweat. Proper hygiene not only ensures a pleasant experience for everyone but also minimizes the risk of infections spreading in communal spaces.
2. Use Appropriate Levels of Antiperspirant
Addressing personal hygiene is a key aspect of gym etiquette. The article suggests using deodorant before hitting the gym to prevent unpleasant odors. However, it also highlights the need to avoid excessive use of overpowering fragrances, respecting others who may have allergies or asthma.
3. Respect Others' Space
Acknowledging the communal nature of the gym, the article advises individuals to be mindful of others' personal space. Choosing equipment that maintains a comfortable distance from fellow gym-goers is a mark of good etiquette, fostering a positive and focused workout environment.
4. Wear Appropriate Clothing
The article touches on the importance of dressing appropriately for the gym. This includes wearing clean, workout-friendly clothing and proper footwear. The emphasis is on creating a respectful and comfortable atmosphere by avoiding overly revealing attire and maintaining cleanliness to protect gym equipment and facilities.
5. Teaser for Future Content
The article concludes with a teaser for upcoming content, indicating a commitment to providing continuous education on gym etiquette. This approach suggests a dedication to keeping the audience engaged and informed about various aspects of maintaining a positive and respectful gym culture.
In summary, the article serves as a guide to proper gym manners, promoting a hygienic and considerate atmosphere for all individuals pursuing their fitness goals.
