Even Miss Manners would acknowledge there's such a thing as gym etiquette. You've either got it or you don't. It doesn't take a genius to figure out the dos and don'ts of the gym, but here's a recap in case you've overlooked anything. Always carry a towel. Most gyms require members to keep a small towel with them at all times when they're working on machines. As you increase your heart rate, you're more likely to sweat and that perspiration has to go somewhere...usually on the equipment. It's common courtesy and proper gym etiquette to wipe down the machine once you have finished using it. You may want to give it a quick cleaning before you use the equipment as well in case your predecessor wasn't as conscientious about good etiquette. Some gyms even keep spray bottles of disinfectant and paper towels nearby. Put them to good use. One thing you shouldn't be using while you're working out is a cell phone.
If you do have your cell phone nearby during your workout, it should be on vibrate or silent mode. Should you need to field an important call, take it outside. Nobody else wants to hear your conversation while they're trying to work out. Don't hog the machines. Allow other people to have their turns. If you're taking a rest, step aside and leave the machine vacant so your fellow gym members can keep their workout moving along. If you use weights, make sure you put them back in the proper place so that nobody trips over them. Another good rule of thumb is to go easy on perfume and cologne. When you sweat, the fragrances can be downright overpowering. Most of the ground rules for good gym etiquette are common sense. Act how you would want other people to act.