ETIQUETTE FOR NEWBIES AND SEASONED GYM RATS Whether you're new to the gym or been around for awhile, there's nothing like a little common sense and common courtesy in the gym. After all, we're all there for the same reason! As someone on the message boards likes to say..... WORK HARD WORK SMART!   Don't offer to spot for someone unless you can handle the weight AND know proper spotting techniques If you need a spot Ask for it If you bring music to listen to, wear headphones, keep the sound level down low enough so others don't hear it Wear appropriate clothing Don't offer advice unless asked first - don't give it unless you KNOW what you're talking about Don't criticize others in the gym - be constructive, polite, and acknowledge their hard work - if you notice someone using bad form, you can say (if it's true) I can tell you've spent some time in here and it shows, I used to do my "whatever" just like that and hurt myself, set me back "x" number of weeks, if you do it like this, you're not as likely to get injured and the results are much quicker If your gym doesn't supply towels, bring one - nobody wants to sit in someone elses sweat If your gym does supply towels - use them If you must use support devices (ie belts, gloves, wrist straps ) only wear them for the exercise needed 1) you'll look goofy 2) you'll short change yourself by not allowing natural movement during an exercise 3) most times if you need them the weight you're lifting is too heavy, if you have been increasing at the proper rate your muscles will be ready for the increase (exceptions- injuries, and ladies who don't want calluses on their hands, on occasion there are times when smaller muscle groups such as wrists will fatigue before the muscle group being worked does) Don't walk through or stand next to someone in their movement zone and "chat" with other people In the BFL exercise program we have 4 sets with 1 minute rests, most people only work 1 or 2 sets Do be polite and let others use the machine in between your sets.... most sets can be knocked out in 1 min or less Don't lean on the equipment or racks while "chatting" It's comforting to see familiar faces in the gym Do say Hi, wow! you're looking great!, you're doing great! but remember everyone's there to work out same as you, if he/she is drop dead gorgeous it doesn't mean he/she wants to be "hit on" While waiting for a piece of equipment don't make rude noises, tap your foot, or anything else you wouldn't want done to you We all agree sometimes a grunt is necessary to get those last couple of reps out, but don't grunt for every rep every set, you'll sound ridiculous and will distract others from their workouts Focus on the body parts you're working, watch your form in the mirrors - that's what they're there for, not for checking your hair or make-up This one really isn't an etiquette tip but no one will take you seriously with a freshly applied face and lip stick - not to say you have to scrub your face clean before a workout, just don't re-apply before walking in the weight room Don't be embarrassed to ask questions, that's how we learn Be prepared - have your work out planned and written down for reference There will be times when the gym is packed, when it seems every piece of equipment you want is being used at the moment you want it, be flexible, it happens, you may even find rearranging your workout this way from time to time gives you a better workout Don't slam, drop, clang or throw the weights, it's irritating and dangerous Don't leave weights or plates lying around always return them to their rack or tree - it's dangerous and no one wants to hunt down the weight they're ready to use