Gyms are shared spaces. A few unwritten habits keep them pleasant and safe for everyone. Rules differ between gyms, so check the posted notices and ask staff if you are unsure.
The essentials
- Wipe down equipment after you use it. Use the spray and towels provided, and clean the seat, the handles and any spot where you have been sweating.
- Put weights back. Return dumbbells to the rack in the right place and unload plates from the bar when you finish. Putting away your weights is a basic courtesy for the next person.
- Do not hog equipment. Rest between sets without sitting on the machine while scrolling your phone, especially when the gym is busy.
- Share by working in. If someone is using a machine you need, politely ask, “Can I work in with you?” and take turns between sets.
- Do not drop weights. Lower them under control. Banging and dropping can damage the equipment and floors and may startle others.
- Respect personal space. Do not stand right in front of someone using a mirror or walk through a lifter’s path while they are mid-set.
- Keep your phone use short. Take calls outside. If you film yourself, avoid including other people in the shot, and ask permission if they might be in it.
In the free-weight area
- Leave space around benches and racks, and do not walk through someone’s line of sight while they lift.
- If you use the squat rack for curls, you are blocking the equipment that other people need. Use a free bench or dumbbells instead.
- Re-rack plates and dumbbells where they came from. A tidy rack is safer.
- Do not stand in front of the dumbbell rack while you work out. Take your weights to a free space.
In the cardio area
- Wipe down the machine, and do not reserve a machine with a towel when it is busy.
- Keep your phone calls short, and use headphones.
- If a time limit is posted for the machine, stick to it.
In classes
- Arrive on time. If you are late, ask the instructor before you join.
- Bring your own mat or use the one provided and wipe it afterward.
- Respect others’ space, and tell the instructor if you are new or have an injury.
Safety etiquette
- Use collars on barbells if your gym requires them, and load plates evenly.
- Do not interrupt someone mid-set, except for an emergency.
- Spotting: Only spot if someone asks, and let them tell you how they want help. If you need a spot, ask politely and say how many reps you plan to do.
- Do not give unrequested advice. Even when well-meant, corrections can be unwelcome. A friendly “Want a spot?” is fine.
- Report broken equipment to staff and keep clear of it.
Hygiene and the locker room
- Shower regularly, and wear clean clothes.
- Keep your bag in a locker, not on the gym floor where it blocks the way.
- Use a towel between your skin and benches.
- Keep phone use in the locker room to a minimum, and never photograph people or take pictures there.
Being a good neighbour
- Say hello, but respect it if someone wears headphones and is focused.
- Keep the noise reasonable. Grunting in effort is fine; shouting is not.
- Be patient with beginners. One day that could be you, or it already is.
Do and don’t at a glance
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Wipe equipment after use | Leave sweat on the bench |
| Re-rack weights | Leave plates on the bar |
| Ask to work in | Take a machine someone is clearly using |
| Lower weights with control | Drop weights from a height |
| Say hello and be friendly | Give unrequested coaching |
| Keep conversations short on the floor | Block machines while you chat |
If someone breaks the rules
Most people are not trying to be rude. If someone leaves weights out or hogs a machine, a polite “Are you finished with this?” usually works. If it is a safety problem or keeps happening, tell a staff member and let them handle it.
If you are not sure
You are allowed to ask. Staff and regulars would much rather answer a question than watch a mistake. And if someone corrects you about etiquette, thank them and move on. We all learn the rules by being in the room.
New here? Read about your first day at the gym and our machines guide, then give our warm-up routine a try.