Are you about to head to the gym? We’ve all been there. You’re at the gym, feeling pumped up and ready to go when suddenly you see someone doing something that makes you stop in your tracks.
Maybe it’s an exercise that seems too dangerous or a weird habit that makes little sense. Whatever it is, you don’t want to be tempted–so here are 10 things you should never do at the gym.
Following our simple tips, you can focus on getting the most out of your workout without distractions.
And if you ever find yourself in doubt, remember — safety first! So stay away from these 10 no-nos and get back to crushing your fitness goals.
Here are 10 things you should never do at the gym:
1. Hogging the Equipment
We’ve all been there–you’re in the middle of your workout, and you see someone just sitting on the bench press or squat rack, not using it but not letting anyone else use it.
Or maybe they’re using a machine but not working out; they’re just chatting on the phone or taking a selfie. Either way, it isn’t very pleasant and unfair to everyone trying to get a workout in.
If you see someone hogging the equipment, politely ask them if they’re done or if they could please move so you can use it. If they don’t listen, find a gym employee and ask them to help you.
2. Not Wiping Down the Equipment
This one is just gross. Nobody wants to use a machine or equipment covered in someone else’s sweat.
Assuming that you’re done with your workout, take a minute to wipe down the equipment with a sanitary wipe or towel. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference for the next person.
3. Lifting Too Much Weight
Lifting weights is a great way to get stronger, but there are right and wrong ways.
If you’re lifting too much weight, you could injure yourself–and that will not help your workout routine. Start with lighter weights and work your way up so you know your limits.
4. Skipping the Warm-Up
Jumping into your workout without a proper warm-up is a recipe for disaster.
You could end up pulling a muscle or straining something, which will set you back even further.
Take a few minutes to do some light cardio or stretching before you start your workout routine.
5. Not Wearing the Right Shoes
This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people try to work out in shoes that are not meant for the gym.
Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to injuries, and it’s just not comfortable. Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers that offer support and stability, and you’ll be good to go.
6. Interrupting Someone Mid-Exercise
When you’re in the middle of a workout, the last thing you want is someone coming up to you and asking for directions or interrupting your flow.
It’s important to be respectful of other people’s space, especially when trying to focus on their workout.
whether you need to ask someone for help, wait until they’re done with their set, or exercise.
7. Staring at People
Working out can be challenging, and the last thing you need is someone staring at you while trying to focus on your form.
It’s distracting and can make you self-conscious, which is the last thing you want when trying to get a good workout in. If you see someone staring at you, politely ask them to stop.
8. Talking on the phone
This one is just a common courtesy. When you’re at the gym, it’s essential to be respectful of other people’s space and time.
That means no talking on the phone, especially if you’re on a loudspeaker. If you need to take a call, step outside or go to a quiet area, so you’re not disrupting others.
9. Listening to Music Without Headphones
Listening to music while you work out can motivate and help you get into a good groove, but it’s important to be considerate of others.
Nobody wants to hear your music blaring through the speakers, so make sure you have headphones in. If you don’t have headphones, ask the person next to you if they mind if you listen to music.
10. Being a Distraction
Working out can be tough enough without people trying to talk to you or distracting you from your routine.
If you’re at the gym, it’s important to focus on your workout and not be a distraction to others. That means no talking loudly, no foul language, and no disruptive behavior.
Remember, the gym is for everyone–so let’s all help make it a positive and respectful environment for everyone to enjoy.
Joshua is a staff writer at Health Magazine Lab covering fitness, gym, and health clubs. He is interested in how technology changes physical activity and health.