Being active and going to the gym is part of a healthy lifestyle. If you're a regular going every week, good for you! But as a gym-goer, you've probably noticed some annoying behaviour from other people you wish they'd stop doing. Don't worry because you're not alone. Here are 20 frustrating things people need to stop doing at the gym - trust us when we say everyone agrees.
1. Hogging Equipment
Gym-goers need to remember that the gym is a public space, not a private one. So no matter how much you want to use the equipment, keep in mind that it doesn't belong to you. There are likely others who have been waiting patiently for their turn, so be respectful of that. Don't take extra long breaks, don't scroll on your phone, and don't sit there doing nothing. Hogging the equipment is simply rude and inconsiderate.
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2. Not Wiping Down Equipment
In a place where sweat and germs can build up quickly, it's important that everyone be mindful of wiping down the equipment when they're done. No one wants to feel sticky bars or sit on wet benches because people were being careless. All it takes is this little step and you'll do your part in maintaining a clean environment for everyone.
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3. Misplacing Equipment
When you're done using accessories or equipment, always put it back where it belongs. Don't be lazy; there's nothing more annoying than seeing someone leave things randomly on the floor. Not only is it rude, but it can also be dangerous leaving items people might trip on, or heavy things that might fall over.
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4. Dropping Weights
Loud noises in the gym can be really distracting and even potentially dangerous for people in the middle of a workout. That's why dropping weights on purpose is a big no-no. Creating a loud sound and vibration that disrupts other peoples' routines, don't make yourself a nuisance for others.
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5. Using Excessive Perfume or Cologne
Gyms tend to be in closed spaces with many strong smells already wafting about, so don't make things worse by wearing an overbearing perfume or cologne. You're going to be sweating anyway. If it's too strong, the people close to you might find it irritating.
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6. Giving Unsolicited Advice
Unless someone comes up to you and specifically asks for it, don't go around giving unwanted advice. It can come across as being too cocky, making too many assumptions, or just being plain annoying. Everyone does things differently and you should let people do what works best for them.
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7. Blocking Others’ View of Mirrors
Mirrors in the gym aren't just for checking up on your looks; they play an important role in ensuring people have the right form. Most people use the mirrors to monitor themselves, so blocking their view is just rude. There's so much space, you definitely don't need to be standing right there in front of someone.
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8. Monopolizing the Water Fountain
While yes, you should definitely be keeping yourself hydrated while working out, don't hog the space. When it's busy, there's probably a lot of people looking to grab water at the fountain so don't waste people's time. Get your water and get out!
9. Playing Loud Music without Headphones
Listening to music while working out is a great way to get you pumped up, but make sure you remember to do so respectfully. Wear earbuds when playing your own music so that it doesn't distract others around you. Playing it on speaker only shows that you don't care about everyone's else's personal space.
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10. Overcrowding Areas
The gym can get pretty busy during popular hours, so it's up to everyone to make it a safe environment. Just because there are a lot of people doesn't mean you have to all crowd in one area, especially in weightlifting zones where it can be especially dangerous. Always try to make space for others handling equipment so no accidents happen.
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11. Failing to Control Odor
We get it. Everyone sweats at the gym. That doesn't give you an excuse to neglect your personal hygiene though! Wash your dirty workout clothes, clean up after yourself, and do your best to maintain personal cleanliness. Just because it's a gym doesn't mean there aren't standards to uphold.
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12. Skipping the Queue for Popular Equipment
Because gyms are a shared space, you can expect the more popular accessories and equipment to have long line ups. That's just how it normally is. Be patient, wait your turn, and don't skip the line. Taking the equipment when it's not your turn might just create unwanted conflict between other gym-goers. Keep in mind that everyone's on the same boat.
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13. Using Multiple Pieces of Equipment During Peak Hours
Similarly, during busy hours when people are trying to get a hold of equipment, don't keep everything to yourself. While you might want to use multiple tools to create a circuit, be mindful of other people. Do your best to limit yourself to one piece of equipment at once so that everyone gets a chance to use them.
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14. Leaving Personal Items on Equipment
If you still believe in the power of "dibs" by throwing your towel on a bench or using a water bottle to claim your spot, it's time to grow up. There's no such thing as reserving your spot in the gym. Everything is at a first come, first serve basis.
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15. Taking Photos or Videos without Permission
Nowadays, people love filming gym videos whether it's to inform their viewers or to monitor their own progress. Regardless of the reason, if you're going to take a photo or video, you should always ask other people if it's okay. Generally, seeing a camera in the gym can be quite unsettling, so it's a good idea to clear things up with others around you before you start filming.
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16. Excessive Grunting or Yelling
Another loud form of noise you should avoid doing is grunting or yelling. While it's totally fine to let out some noise when lifting heavy weights, doing it excessively is a little bit much. If you're having to scream that loudly, those weights might be a little too heavy for you anyway.
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17. Not Using a Spotter When Necessary
If you plan on pushing yourself to lift weights that are heavier than normal, do yourself a favour and find a spotter. This is for your own safety and for everyone else around you too. You never know when an accident might happen, so it's always better to be safe than sorry.
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18. Misusing Exercise Machines
Gym machines aren't exactly multi-purpose most of the time - they're meant for one thing and one thing only. Not using them as intended can not only be dangerous, but it can also damage the equipment. For your own safety too, always read the instructions on how to use the machine or simply ask for help.
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19. Being Disrespectful to Staff or Fellow Gym-Goers
No matter where you are, whether it's at the gym, in a mall, at the park, or in the office, you should always be respectful to the people around you. If you start problems like arguing with others over equipment, display inappropriate behaviour, or make others uncomfortable, be prepared for the consequences. There's no need for that type of attitude anywhere.
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20. Leaving Litter Behind
Every public space will always have a trash can available, so use it! It's everyone's job to do their part in maintaining a clean gym environment. That means no leaving behind empty bottles, used tissues, or garbage. It takes no effort from you at all to bring it to a trash can, so just do it. It makes the gym so much better for everyone!
