Gym Etiquette 101: The REAL Deal

Every week, I field dozens of questions from real people in the trenches of fitness—working out in gyms, parks, and health clubs. Yet, one of the top reasons why people don't join a gym (or hire a trainer) is because of their fear of judgment or intimidation. The gym environment also thrusts upon us all sorts of awkward social interactions. So today, I'll demystify some of these weird situations so you'll feel more comfortable in the gym.

WHAT TO DO WHEN....

AN ANNOYING, NAKED STRANGER STARTS TALKING TO YOU IN THE LOCKER ROOM
Unless you know the person, it's impolite for them to be in your personal space while in the locker room. Politely ask them to step away into a zone where you feel more comfortable. If they persist in talking to you and you don't want to talk to them, brevity is key. Replying with short answers indicates your disinterest in extending a conversation. Better yet, try a blank stare. If they persist, a polite, "I'm sorry, but I need to get going" is an appropriate response.

THAT GUY DOESN'T WIPE HIS SWEAT OFF THE EQUIPMENT.
If you're feeling especially confident, approach the individual and kindly point out that they might have missed a spot on their equipment. Assuming they "forgot" to wipe it off, instead of assuming that they left it there on purpose, will go a long way. If you don't feel comfortable asking them, ask gym staff to handle it. It is ultimately the responsibility of the facility to ensure that the equipment is clean.

SOMEONE WON'T SHARE THE EQUIPMENT.
Most clubs recommend a 30-minute limit on cardio equipment. Often if all the machines are full, a small line will form nearby for the next piece of available equipment. If your gym has a time limit on the cardio equipment, and someone is extending their stay, then you should ask a manager to handle it. A manager asking the patron to get off the machine and observe the time limit will go a lot further in the long run than if you approach them to get off the machine. If someone is on a weight machine that you're looking to use, ask them how many sets are remaining. If they reply with three or more, ask them politely if you can "work in" for a couple of sets. To be a good "work in buddy" you should first observe the weight they're lifting and make sure you set it back to that weight before you return the equipment to them.

THE GUY WHO WEARS SUNGLASSES.
I'll admit, I think this is annoying. But some people swear by wearing sunglasses in the gym because they say "it helps them stay focused and concentrate." I don't recommend wearing sunglasses in the gym, and I think it's more embarrassing for the person doing it, but on this particular item I don't think it's advisable to comment.

THE PERSON WHO WEARS IMPOSSIBLY SMALL OR TIGHT CLOTHES
This is really a fashion question. In my opinion, workout clothes need to be breathable (or wicking) in order to keep you from overheating. For some sports, spandex and lycra are helpful to prevent chafing from repetitive movements (e.g., in cycling or spinning). A few folks, however, think the gym is both their own little fashion show and runway. I've seen a resurgence in denim (yes, blue jeans) tiny (nearly see through) short shorts, wrestling singlets, and in Hollywood, even a guy being led around on a dog-collar. As with the sunglasses, however, none of these fashion choices really intrudes upon your personal safetly. Unless someone's attire is patently inapppropriately revealing, just try not to stare. (And read the next question)

THAT PERSON KEEPS STARING AT YOU.
A friend of mine used to say that when he was younger, people would stare at him in the gym to the point where he developed a complex. He feared that "something was seriously wrong" and he didn't understand why they were looking at him. Today, he has a healthier sense of self esteem and realizes he's simply a handsome man who others enjoy watching for inspiration in the gym. When someone is boring a hole through me, I often find it helpful to acknowledge them by smiling politely, which seems to discharge the energy. If they persist by staring, I sometimes approach them and say: "I noticed you watching me during my workout, which I am finding somewhat distracting. I hope you don't mind if I ask you to direct your attention elsewhere." Personally, I think most people stare in the gym because they are either interested in watching how you work out, or they're interested in your physique. Both of these reasons should be flattering.

SOMEONE DOESN'T RE-RACK THEIR WEIGHTS.
It's not uncommon to leave large weight plates on a piece of equipment (like the bench press) but, any gym worth its salt should have enough staff on the floor to keep the place from becoming a weight wasteland. The best way to keep this from happening is by setting a good example. Take pride in always replacing the weights on the rack where they belong and other people will follow your example.

SOMEONE HAS AWFUL FORM
If you notice someone doing an exercise with hideous form, and they are inadvertently endangering your safety, then you must say something. But if they're being sloppy, it's NOT your responsibility to correct their form. If you're just being helpful and conscientious because you're sincerely concerned about the persons' safety and well being, then alert one of the certified trainers on the gym floor and allow them the opportunity to provide proper instruction. Most trainers will value this opportunity as it may allow them to pick up a new client!