Unspoken Gym Rules You Should Definitely Be Following
August 23, 2023
Welcome to Nacho Fitness Coach, where we blend fitness facts with funny fails—and today’s topic is a big one: gym etiquette. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just stepped into the gym for the first time (hi, Caleigh!), we’re talking about the do's, the definitely don’ts, and the awkward situations no one warned you about.
So... What Is Gym Etiquette?
Spoiler alert: Caleigh had no idea. But that’s okay! We all start somewhere. The good news? Proper gym behavior isn’t rocket science—it’s mostly common courtesy with a side of sweat.
The Basics: Clean Up and Re-Rack
Let’s start with the golden rules:
- Wipe down your equipment. Nobody wants your sweat as a souvenir.
- Re-rack your weights. It’s not just polite—it prevents injuries and clutter.
Not groundbreaking advice, but you'd be surprised how often these basics get skipped.
Sharing Equipment: The Art of “Working In”
Ever hear of working in? Neither had Caleigh. But here’s the deal:
- If someone’s resting between sets, it’s okay to politely ask, “Mind if I work in?”
- Adjust the machine as needed—but always put it back the way you found it.
- Don’t interrupt mid-rep unless you want a death stare.
Basically: share like it’s kindergarten, but with more glutes involved.
Noise Levels: Grunt Limits and Squeal-Free Zones
Yes, lifting is hard. Yes, sometimes you grunt. But:
- Keep sounds effort-based, not auditioning for a wildlife documentary.
- There’s a difference between a focused exhale and a dramatic squeal.
- Pro tip: If you’re over 45—maybe just grunt internally.
Mirror Etiquette: Step Aside, Selfie Nation
Mirrors are for:
- Checking your form
- NOT for blocking someone mid-rep while you flex or take a thirst trap selfie
- If you need a mirror moment, wait your turn—then work that angle
Gym Proximity: When Things Get... Too Close
Caleigh had a moment: her quad blaster machine was awkwardly close to a gym bro’s hamstring curls. Eye contact was made. Regrets were had.
Our take?
- If you're uncomfortable, pick a different machine.
- Otherwise? Just focus forward and avoid the stare-down.
Quiet on the Circuit Floor: No Weight Slamming, Please
Don’t be the person dropping weights like they’re mic-dropping a PR. Why?
- It’s loud.
- It’s rude.
- You’re actually losing out on gains—control the descent for better results.
Cleaning Up: Spray Smart
Should you wipe your dumbbells? Yep.
- Spray the towel, not the weights directly—especially metal ones (rust is real).
- If you’re sick? Just skip the gym. (Looking at you, post-COVID Caleigh.)
Should You Correct Someone Else’s Form?
Sara says: Absolutely not (unless you’re asked).
- You don’t know someone’s story, injury history, or workout plan.
- If you're a trainer, wear your logo—people can approach you.
- Otherwise: not your circus, not your monkey.
You’re Not Being Watched As Much As You Think
Caleigh felt self-conscious—but Sara reminds us:
- Most people are too focused on themselves to notice you
- Especially in solo workouts with headphones on
- Group classes? Maybe more eyes—but no judgment
Dropping Weights = Dropping Respect
Sara’s pet peeve: weight dropping. Not only is it loud and dangerous, but:
- You’re skipping the eccentric (lowering) phase, which is key to strength
- Control builds more muscle and shows more respect—for the gym and everyone else
So... Planet Fitness Vibes?
Quick tangent into lunk alarms, tank top bans, and judgment-free gyms that… feel oddly judgy. TL;DR:
- Caleigh and Sara are fans of lifting in comfort
- Gallon water jugs and striations (yes, Caleigh is learning the lingo) are allowed at their gym
Challenge Accepted: Let’s Lift Again
After a treadmill challenge and a slight injury, it’s time for a comeback:
- New goal: 3-day lifting challenge
- Accessible, appropriate movements for both Caleigh and Sara
- Striations encouraged. Squeals? Optional
🎯 Gym Etiquette Cheat Sheet:
- ✅ Wipe down machines (including dumbbells)
- ✅ Re-rack your weights
- ✅ Ask to “work in” and return settings when done
- 🚫 Don’t interrupt people mid-set
- 🚫 Avoid excessive noise (grunts are fine—squeals, not so much)
- ✅ Respect mirror space (no blocking for selfies!)
- ✅ Control weights—don’t slam
- ✅ Don’t correct strangers unless you’re a trainer and they ask
- ✅ Remember: nobody’s watching you (they’re watching themselves)
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