by Matt Wysong
Nobody wants to be a dumb bell when working out at their local gym. That is why remembering some basic fitness etiquette and following some simple rules is so important.
Rule #1: Leave no trace evidence behind.{relatedarticles}
Criminal investigators will always look for tiny bits of evidence at a crime scene to help catch their crook. Trace evidence includes things like hair, nails, blood, and sweat. At the gym, you should only leave enough behind that only someone working in the FBI could find. This means that you should always wipe your machine down after every set and use a spray if one is available. This seems like such an obvious rule, but you would be surprised how often it is broken. It is utterly gross, so keep this one in mind at all times.
Rule #2: Don't be a machine hog.
We have many types of workouts that influence people to sit and rest at one machine or bounce around to five at the same time. No matter which workout you do, always be aware of people waiting or wanting to use a machine. If you machine-bounce, than be open to sharing.
The most annoying habit is when someone lays their towel, water and personal belongings around several locations. If you spend a great amount of time at one machine, look around when you are at rest to see if anyone else needs to work in. Remember, we are all paying members with time restrictions. To share is to care.
Rule #3: Please, no cell phones here.{relatedarticles}
Most gyms have banned the use of cell phones in the workout area. Even if it is allowed at your gym, it is really looked down upon. Sitting at a machine on a phone does not look like resting -- it looks rude. The gym is a place to put life on hold for a bit, so unless it is an emergency, keep it in the locker room or car. If it is an emergency, use it away from the equipment. It wasn't long ago that cell phones didn't even exist, and we managed just fine without them. One hour in storage won't kill you.
Rule #4 Rack those weights when you are done.
This is the most often-broken rule in the gym. It is a true sign of laziness at a time when laziness shouldn't be present. It can be very frustrating when someone who lifts 200 more pounds than you leaves their weights on when they are done.
Yes, we do get an extra workout removing them, but for some it can be dangerous. For example, someone who weighs 120 pounds shouldn't be bending over trying to pickup 45-pound weights and 80-pound dumbbells. It either puts them at risk for injury or makes them avoid the machine entirely. Remember to put your weights back where you found them.{relatedarticles}
When working out at the gym, keep these four simple rules in mind to demonstrate proper gym etiquette.
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