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Gym etiquette and the rules of the road

by NATALIE DREGER Contributing Writer
| October 6, 2021 1:00 AM

If you work out on a consistent basis in a gym, I’m certain you are aware of the typical gym etiquette.

Some would argue that it is just common sense, while others have become numb to the “rules of the road.” Let me enlighten you a bit.

  1. The weight bench in the gym is not your personal office chair. Do your sets and reps — then let someone else have a turn. Sitting around texting on your cellphone or surfing on Facebook does not warrant taking up bench time.
  2. Your mom isn’t going to come around cleaning up after you. Toss your water bottle if you are finished with it — don’t leave it on the ground or chair or window ledge. I see this a lot. Crazy.
  3. Wipe down the equipment. The gym is a breeding ground for bacteria and colds spread like wildfire here. Every gym has sanitary towelettes or spray bottles available. Use them.

If you see someone who might not know how to use a piece of equipment, show them. If you see someone who is overweight, support them, encourage them and stop judging. We are all there for a reason.

We have an opportunity every day — in more environments than just the gym — to support, encourage, hold the door, let someone else go first, say thank you, bless you “when you hear a sneeze.”

You be the one who takes the higher road and help others. I know all of my friends make the right choices when given the opportunity to do so. Trust me, your life will be fuller when you “give back.”

Natalie Dreger is a certified fitness professional and can be reached at nataliedreger.com.