When you’re traveling, whether for business or pleasure, maintaining your fitness routine can be a rewarding way to stay grounded. This is especially true if you are traveling during the approaching holiday season. However, stepping into a new gym brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to gym etiquette. As a visitor, it’s important to be mindful of the local customs and considerate of those around you. Taking a little time to familiarize yourself with the unwritten rules of the gym can make your workout more enjoyable and ensure that you leave a positive impression. By showing respect for the space and the people in it, you’ll fit right in and make the most of your fitness experience.
Practical Tips On Gym Etiquette While Traveling
Always Bring a Towel
When you visit a gym, especially in a new city, having a towel on hand is essential for proper gym etiquette. Indeed, it’s not just about wiping sweat from your face; it’s about showing respect for the space and others using it. Gyms often provide towels, but bringing your own ensures you’re prepared and following basic gym etiquette. Plus, using your towel to clean the equipment after you’re done leaves a positive impression. Remember, everyone appreciates a clean and ready machine.
Respect the Space
Gyms can be crowded, particularly during peak times, which makes observing good gym etiquette even more important. Be aware of how much space you’re taking up, and keep your belongings organized and out of communal areas to avoid creating obstacles. If you’re stretching or using a mat, choose a spot that isn’t in a main walkway. This way, you help maintain the flow of the gym, which is key to proper gym etiquette, and create a stress-free environment for everyone.
Don’t Hover
If you’re waiting for a specific piece of equipment, it’s best not to linger too close. Standing too near can make others feel rushed or uncomfortable, which goes against gym etiquette. Instead, occupy yourself with stretching or another exercise until the equipment becomes available. This approach demonstrates patience and shows that you respect others’ space, which is an important part of practicing good gym etiquette.
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Keep Your Workout Efficient
Efficiency is key when practicing good gym etiquette, especially when a gym is busy. Plan your sets in advance so you can move from one to the next without too much downtime. This doesn’t mean rushing through your routine, but it does mean being mindful of how long you rest between sets. If someone asks to work in, being accommodating shows consideration and demonstrates great gym etiquette. This helps create a cooperative and positive gym environment.
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Re-Rack Your Weights
One of the most universally appreciated acts of gym etiquette is re-racking weights after use. This isn’t just good manners; it’s essential for maintaining an organized space. When weights are left lying around, it can become frustrating and even hazardous for others. Taking those few extra seconds to return your dumbbells or plates ensures that you’re contributing to good gym etiquette. A tidy gym reflects well on everyone using it, including you.
Be Mindful of the Local Customs
Different gyms often have their own way of doing things, and adhering to local gym etiquette is crucial. For example, some gyms might have strict policies on sharing equipment or specific dress codes. Taking a moment to observe or even ask the staff about any unique guidelines helps you practice proper gym etiquette. Adapting to these customs shows respect and helps you fit into the gym’s culture, making your experience more enjoyable and seamless.
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Use Headphones
Listening to music is a great motivator, but using headphones at a reasonable volume is part of good gym etiquette. This ensures your music stays personal and doesn’t disturb those around you. In a new gym, especially, you want to make sure you’re not inadvertently breaking gym etiquette by playing loud music. Listening privately helps maintain a focused, positive atmosphere and ensures you’re being respectful.
Limit Phone Use
While you might need your phone for a workout app or to change a song, limiting screen time is part of practicing solid gym etiquette. Sitting on a machine and scrolling through your phone can frustrate others who are waiting. Staying present and focusing on your sets shows that you value your own workout time as well as the time of those around you. Being mindful of phone use helps create a harmonious environment, which is a key part of gym etiquette.
Ask Before Using Equipment
If a machine or set of weights has a towel or water bottle nearby, it’s a sign that someone may still be using it. Asking before using equipment is a fundamental part of gym etiquette. A simple “Is this free?” prevents confusion and shows you’re courteous. This small action sets a positive tone and helps maintain good gym etiquette with others at the gym.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing appropriately for your workout is an important part of gym etiquette. When working out in a new environment, make sure your gym attire fits the setting and aligns with local standards. Some gyms may prefer more coverage, while others might be more relaxed. Choosing the right clothing shows respect for the gym’s culture and helps you feel confident. Dressing according to gym etiquette ensures you fit in seamlessly and feel comfortable.
Be Punctual for Group Classes
If you plan to join a group class, arriving on time is crucial for proper gym etiquette. Showing up late can be disruptive to the instructor and other participants. If you do happen to arrive a few minutes late, enter quietly and find a spot without interrupting the flow of the class. Being punctual shows respect for everyone’s time and demonstrates good gym etiquette. Plus, arriving early gives you a chance to set up and get comfortable, ensuring a smooth start to your workout.
Keep Conversations Low-Key
While it’s fine to exchange a few words with other gym-goers, maintaining a low volume is part of good gym etiquette. Gyms are shared spaces where people come to focus on their fitness goals, so loud or extended conversations can be distracting. If you need to chat with a friend, try to step into a more open area or wait until after your session. Practicing this level of gym etiquette helps maintain a focused environment for everyone and keeps interactions positive.
Use Equipment for Its Intended Purpose
When you’re visiting a gym, especially one that’s unfamiliar, make sure to use each piece of equipment as intended. For instance, avoid using weights for exercises that might disrupt or damage the equipment. This is essential for good gym etiquette, as it ensures the gym stays safe and functional for everyone. If you’re unsure how to use something, don’t hesitate to ask the staff or observe how others use it. Properly using equipment reflects an understanding of gym etiquette and helps keep the space in good condition.
Wipe Down Locker Room Surfaces
Practicing gym etiquette extends beyond the workout floor and into the locker room. After using a bench or vanity, take a moment to wipe down any surfaces you’ve touched. This simple gesture helps keep shared spaces clean and pleasant for everyone. Many gyms provide disinfectant wipes or sprays for this purpose, so use them generously. Maintaining cleanliness in the locker room is an essential part of good gym etiquette and ensures that all members can enjoy a hygienic environment.
Thank the Staff
Finally, don’t forget to thank the staff, as it’s an important part of gym etiquette. A simple “thank you” shows that you appreciate their efforts in maintaining the space. This also helps establish a friendly rapport, which can make your visit more enjoyable. Showing gratitude not only follows good gym etiquette but also leaves a lasting positive impression, making you feel welcome on future visits.
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About the Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning freelance writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS Local from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS Local websites, including CBS New York, CBS Los Angeles, CBS Chicago, and CBS San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, he reportedly had a digital audience reach of 489 million and more than 5.5 million monthly visitors. His other stories have also appeared in the Daily Meal, Examiner.com, CBS Radio, Engadget, and Radio.com. He is a Media Fellow of Stanford University, a U.S. Army veteran, and a lifelong Santa Cruz County, California resident. Lastly, he worked as a fitness professional for several years in academic, non-profit and commercial settings.
