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Gym Etiquette: A Newbie's Guide to the Gym

Writer's picture: Daniela RadomanDaniela Radoman

Updated: Aug 15, 2024

Embarking on a fitness journey can be exciting, but stepping into the gym for the first time can be a bit intimidating. The good news? Understanding basic gym etiquette can make your experience a lot smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re brand new to the gym, or rejoining after some time off, here’s a quick guide to help you fit right in with confidence and courtesy.



While you don’t need to smell like flowers while at the gym, it is a good idea to make sure your gym shirt doesn’t reek of B.O. Avoid wearing perfumes or lotions that are strongly scented as that might be irritating for others, and wear deodorant. 



2. Clean Up After Yourself

Especially when in a shared space, hygiene is paramount. Always wipe down equipment once you’ve finished using it, and make sure to put things back in their proper place. This would include things like free weights, machines, and mats. 



3. Respect Personal Space

Friends working out together

The gym can get crowded at times, especially at peak hours. Try to be mindful of other people’s personal space. Try to avoid setting up your workout space too close to someone else, and if someone is using a machine or weight rack, give them enough room to complete their set before stepping in. 



4. Use Equipment Properly

If you don’t know how to use a piece of equipment, don’t hesitate to ask a trainer or another friendly gym go-er. Not only can misusing equipment be unsafe for you and those around you, it can be a distraction if there’s lots of clanging going on. 



5. Be Mindful of Noise

While some chit chat and effort is ok, try to be mindful of the surrounding environment. Excessive grunting, banging of machines, dropping weights obnoxiously, and even talking on the phone or to others loudly, can be a bit disruptive. If you love listening to music, use headphones, and if you have to answer a call, step out to the side where you’re less likely to disturb others.



6. Don’t Hog Up Space

It’s courteous to share equipment, especially when the gym is a bit busier. If you’re alternating exercises or doing multiple sets, it’s kind to let others “work in” so they can get a chance to get a set in while you do something else.



7. Don’t Just Take Equipment if You See Someone Using It

Perhaps someone else is doing multiple sets or multiple exercises. Perhaps they left their water bottle on a bench for a second. It’s not kind to just move their stuff and barge in, not to mention maybe not the most sanitary either. Always ask if you can “work in” while their doing their other stuff.


Friends working out together

8. Follow the Gym Rules

Every gym will have their own set of rules. Familiarise yourself with your gyms policies regarding things like towel use, class sign-ups, locker usage, and sauna room use. Adhering to these rules helps maintain a smooth running facility for everyone. 



9. Be Supportive and Inclusive

The gym should be a welcoming environment for everyone. Offer encouragement and be friendly, but be respectful of their space and workout time. If you see someone struggling, a simple “hi” or smile can go a long way.



10. Be Mindful of Social Interactions

While it’s great to be friendly, be mindful of when and where you engage in conversation with others. Try not to interrupt others while they’re in the middle of a set, and try not to take up space in a busy part of the gym. Socialising is best saved for before or after your workouts and in designated areas.


Clean Gym Set Up

11.  Respect the Mirror/Weight Rack Space

The mirrors and weights are there for everyone. Try not to do your set right in front of the mirrors or right in front of the weight rack where you’d be blocking everyone else’s access. Grab your weights and take 5 giant steps back before starting your set.



12.  Be Punctual for Sessions or Classes

Try to come a few minutes early for your personal session or class. It gives you time to settle in, get any equipment, and warm up without interfering with your training time or disrupting the class once it starts. 



Remember, everyone at the gym was a newbie once. By following these tips you’ll not only respect those around you, but also create a positive and productive environment for yourself. Happy lifting!



Final Remarks

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Our goal at Delta Kinesiology is to help women reach their health and fitness goals. We specialise in conditions and injuries that women are more likely to experience, and we tailor the sessions using evidence-based principles and methods to help you reach your goals. Whether that be going about your day pain-free, building muscle, improving stamina, or feeling better about yourself, we are here to help.


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