VIDEO: Who Needs Zumba in Utah When There’s Euro-Training

Posted on 10. Jan, 2012 by Nate in Work Your Body

Have you ever been to the gym and seen a workout this intense?

Watch this video, then read the gym rules below:

Sure, you’re sweaty (and maybe a little stinky), but that doesn’t mean you should throw etiquette out the window at the gym. In fact, with all those people packed into one place and sweating up a storm, good behavior is a necessity for keeping the peace. We spoke to fitness experts about the rules of workout etiquette so that whether you’re a newbie or a gym rat, you can be sure to fit right in.

Rule #1: Take your calls outside.

Nowadays, with everyone listening to music on their smartphones, it can be tempting to pick up a call—or make a quick one—while you’re working out. Everyone else has headphones on, so no big deal, right? Wrong, says Jennifer Fleischer, an exercise specialist and nutrition and lifestyle coach in San Francisco. “I’m always surprised to see women park themselves on a machine, whip out their cell phones and start catching up with friends while ‘working out,’” she says. Not only will it disturb other gym-goers, but it can also seriously distract you from your own workout. “Keep the cell phones in your locker,” she says. “Your fellow gym-goers––and your waistline––will thank you.”

Rule #2: Don’t hog the machines.

If the gym is busy and you notice people lining up for your treadmill, don’t let your jog last more than 30 minutes, says Ivan Ferran, Director of Clinical Exercise at the Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa in Miami. “A 30-minute workout on cardiovascular equipment like a treadmill or an elliptical is generally sufficient for a great workout.” Similarly, refrain from reserving equipment or a spot in class for your friends. “A gym is not a restaurant. Don’t try to save a space by laying out towels next to you in classes or hanging stuff from a treadmill,” he says. “If another member comes up and wants that equipment or space, they’re entitled to it.”

Rule #3: Use the right weights.

Don’t use weights you can’t handle safely… and quietly. “Even during the hardest workouts you should be able to place your dumbbells or barbells down after using them,” says Fleischer. “The loud noise from weights dropping is often disruptive to other gym-goers and draws unwelcome attention.” Can’t hold tight? Try a set of lighter weights.

Rule #4: Ask for help.

If you aren’t sure how to use a particular machine or how to do a certain exercise, don’t fake it. “It’s very easy to hurt yourself or the machine if you don’t know what you’re doing,” says Ferran. Not to mention you’ll be holding up the line as you struggle to learn. Always ask for assistance from an exercise supervisor on staff. If you’re brand new to working out, most gyms offer a free session with a personal trainer to get you acquainted with the equipment.

Rule #5: Be on time for group classes.

“Arriving late for class is a big no-no, especially at this time of year when classes tend to be packed,” says Danielle Hopkins, a Group Fitness Manager at Equinox in New York City. “Anything more than 5 minutes late is considered impolite, and anything more than 10 minutes late is completely off-limits.” Why the strict rules? Many teachers use those first few minutes to explain what the class will entail and make important announcements. According to Trish Berry, general manager at The Sports Club/LA in Washington D.C., “We ask that members don’t enter a class in progress because, if they miss the warm-up, they could risk injuring themselves”

Read more: Gym Etiquette – Manner Rules for The Gym – Woman’s Day