Most gyms won’t hand you a “golden rules handbook”—wouldn’t that be convenient? But just like any shared space, gyms have their own unspoken code of conduct. Think of it as Gym 101: “Don’t be that person.” The social norms in the weight room, studio, locker room, sauna, or steam bath may not be covered in the Ten Commandments, but trust us, they’re just as sacred. Whether it’s re-racking weights or not turning the sauna into your personal karaoke lounge, good manners matter. Below, we’ve rounded up some gym etiquette tips from seasoned gym-goers and top fitness trainers to keep you from earning the title of “Gym Villain of the Year.
1. SHARE THE EQUIPMENT.
Gym equipment is like a community buffet—it’s there for everyone to use, not just for you to claim as your personal kingdom. If you’re working through supersets (hopping between two machines without a break), remember to share the wealth. Let others hop on when you’re resting; your gains won’t suffer.
Coach Philip.
And let’s talk cardio machines during peak hours. Some gyms have time limits, and for good reason—there’s nothing worse than watching someone transform a treadmill into a Netflix binge station while the rest of us are just trying to sneak in a 20-minute sprint.
If you notice someone pacing around like they’re waiting for a parking spot, take the hint. Flash them a friendly smile and say, “Mind if I share the machine with you?” Trust me, you’ll look like a gym hero, not a machine hog. Besides, some of us are too polite (or shy) to ask, so a little courtesy can go a long way. Bonus: you might just make a new gym buddy who cheers you on during that last killer set.
Dress Appropriately.
When it comes to gym wear, think function over fashion—but please, let’s keep some dignity intact too! Wearing clothes that fit well and provide proper coverage means you can crush your workouts without accidentally giving the whole gym a free anatomy lesson. Trust us, no one wants to be the star of a “wardrobe malfunction” story.
Tight clothes that feel like a second skin might restrict your movement, and attempting a jump squat or downward-facing dog in them could turn your workout into a comedy show. On the flip side, super baggy outfits might have you tripping over yourself or getting snagged on equipment—not exactly the kind of “snatching” we aim for in the gym.
And let’s talk cleanliness. Fresh, clean workout clothes aren’t just about sparing others from unpleasant smells; they’re for your own good. Rocking stale, sweat-soaked gear not only clears the room faster than burpees but also puts you at risk for skin issues. So, do yourself (and everyone else) a favor—dress smart, dress clean, and keep it classy. Oh, and about the shrinking gym outfits trend? Let’s just say some things are better left to the imagination.
Feel Fitness.
3. Feeling Under The Weather? Take a Break
Gyms, like friendships, thrive on fresh air and personal space. A well-ventilated workout space isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping everyone breathing easy and germ-free. Respiratory infections spread faster in cramped quarters than gossip at a family gathering, so let’s be considerate.
Feeling under the weather? Take a break. Seriously, even the best fitness trainers and doctors agree that rest is part of the program. Dragging yourself to the gym with the flu isn’t heroic—it’s hazardous. If you must exercise, try a home workout or sneak in during off-peak hours. Your fellow gym-goers will thank you, even if they don’t say it outright.
Feel Fitness.
And remember, sanitizing equipment is non-negotiable. Wipe down those machines like your gym membership depends on it (because in a way, it does). Wash your hands like you’re scrubbing in for surgery, not just a post-workout snack. Viruses have a sneaky habit of spreading before symptoms even show up. Let’s all do our part to keep the gym a haven for gains, not germs. Who knows, a little extra caution could make you the unofficial MVP of gym etiquette!
4. UNLOAD AND RE-RACK YOUR WEIGHTS.
After you finish using a bar, leave it completely empty and when finished with the dumb-bells return them to their designated spot on the rack. In addition to the tripping danger, the next exerciser will need to search for weights if they are not in their proper location on the rack or on a weight plate tree. Fitness trainers are experts in exercise prescription, program design, anatomy and physiology and most importantly to safely guide you through your fitness journey. If they were interested in housekeeping as a career, they would have studied for it. Extra credits to those who do the club a favor and put them in the right place and order according to their size.
5. Leave It Like You Would Find It.
Let’s talk bathroom and locker room etiquette, because yes, it matters just as much as re-racking your weights! Think of it as Gym 101: Be kind, be quick, and for goodness’ sake, be covered.
If the liquid soap runs out. Don’t let the next person find out the hard way—be a hero and let them know. When it comes to the shower, 5-6 minutes is plenty of time to freshen up; it’s not a luxury spa, and there’s probably someone waiting their turn. Oh, and those soap suds on the taps and floor? Rinse them off—your fellow gym-goers will appreciate not skating their way into a shower mishap.
As for strolling around in your birthday suit—just don’t. Cover up, folks! The locker room isn’t an audition for a body positivity campaign. And while we love that you’re catching up with friends, save the chit-chat for the café or the parking lot. The bathrooms are for business, not banter.
Remember, a little courtesy goes a long way—both in the gym and beyond. And if you’re loving these tips, don’t forget to like our Facebook page, Feel Fitness Center, for more fitness tips, clips, and maybe a few laughs along the way!