Building Muscular Manners

Building Manner Muscles

The gym may not seem like a place where manners matter, but it is and they do

We go to the gym to lose weight or add muscle, hoping for some Zen moments in the process. Because there are other patrons straining and sweating all around us, ‘exercising’ proper etiquette may be just as important here as it is at the ballet.

By Bill Lindsey

1 Be Thoughtful

Part of the gym experience is sharing the equipment. If you’ve been on the only rowing machine for 30 minutes and there are people waiting for it, give them a turn. Draping a towel on a piece of equipment lets others know you want to use it next, but don’t do this if you won’t be using it for 20 minutes or so. Don’t hover when someone is using the equipment you want; be patient.

2 Use a Towel

In a busy gym, it’s only natural that benches and other equipment that you lie on or press against will get sweaty as they’re being used. To keep things sanitary, wipe off the equipment before you use it (in case the previous user didn’t read this article), then wipe it again when you’ve finished that station. When it’s time to hit the showers after a good workout, toss the wipe-down towel in the hamper and grab a fresh one.

3 Respect the Equipment

Just because Olympic weightlifters let the barbells drop on the floor doesn’t mean you should. In addition to causing a sudden loud noise that can be distracting to others, you could easily drop it on your foot—or worse, someone else’s foot— or even damage the floor. On a related note, if you notice that a piece of equipment is broken or defective, advise the manager.

4 Assist If Asked

Even if you’re a long-term, experienced member of the gym, unless someone is doing something in such a way that could injure them or others, avoid offering unsolicited advice. However, if another gym member asks for suggestions on improving technique or if they need someone to spot them as they lift, help them if you feel comfortable doing so. The gym is a place where patrons focus intently on what they’re doing, making any interruptions or distractions unwelcome.

5 Grunts Are Fish

Not everyone will be impressed by all the sounds you make as you struggle to get the weight up and hold it. Breathing is important, of course, but keep the drama to a minimum, avoiding grunts, shrieks, “hooyahs!” or cursing. Patrons come to the gym to get strong in a somewhat meditative manner, so respect the environment. Similarly, the mirrors allow patrons to monitor their technique, so take care not to block their view.