Preparing myself for a hard-earned cruise in May, I’ve been spending some quality time at the gym, and so, this post is dedicated to the ones who got away with collectively ruining my workout today at the gym.
For anyone who’s ever stepped foot into a local gym or fitness club, it’s a given that a few simple common discourtesies can turn a stress reducing sweat session into a hairs-on-the-neck raising experience.
Most gyms have their basic sets of rules. Clean off the equipment after use. Do not exceed 30 minutes on cardio machines. Guests must be signed in upon arrival. Apparently these clubs assume the rest of the rules are implied.
It’s time for a new set of universal rules for those who need a friendly reminder.
My daily routine typically begins with the elliptical machine. All of the sudden, the person next to me let out an alarming sound mid-stride. I almost lost my footing. And it continued. After shooting a few bewildered looks in his direction, he was truly that clueless. He kept on his merry way.
Another gentleman saddled up on the other side of me. This was a rock-band drummer wannabe, using the elliptical as his drumming apparatus. He, too, joined in on the sound effects—singing to the beat of his drumming. Lucky for these guys, this wasn’t Planet Fitness, so they didn’t risk getting the boot for extraneous noises. Rule #1 is to keep personal noises to a minimum.
Defeated, I stepped down from the elliptical and of course wiped it off.
The weights area of my gym is fairly big. And while others are just like me in terms of getting in and out of the gym, there’s no need to put the pressure on others to follow suit. An anxious woman proceeded to stand above me. But there I sat, helpless, and rushed through my last set to please the princess. Rule number 2 – obey personal space.
And men are guilty too, although, they have other intentions rather than trying to hop on the machine.
There’s nothing more awkward than ignoring the fact that you had just been gawked at as you completed your sit-ups. Rule number 3 – please don’t hit on others as they work out.
It’s no surprise, however, that some guys feel women want this. Judging by a few workout outfit choices, that is. I can’t see how it’s really all that comfortable working out in a bra. It makes me cringe thinking about someone letting their sweaty stomach touch the previously sweaty yoga mat below them. Rule number 4 – rethink your wardrobe.
Again, men, too. Sneakers must be warn and, please, leave the cologne at home. We all are sweating. Deodorant should suffice.
And for one last new rule proposal, I pride myself on being a regular at the gym, knowing the in’s and out’s of the machines. So don’t assume I need your help. There’s nothing worse than someone coming over and either making a suggestion or fixing weights without your request.
Wish me luck tomorrow…
