Gym Etiquette: What Beginners Need to Know
By Genevieve Cunningham
If you're not already a regular at the gym, your first visit can be a little bit intimidating. What are you supposed to do? How are you supposed to dress? Are there any rules that you should know? While the owners of your local gym can answer a lot of these questions for you, there are some basic gym etiquette rules that can make the process easier. If you would like to make your first visit back to the gym a bit more comfortable, take a look at these tips for hitting the gym and looking like a pro.
Wipe Down Equipment
Any good gym member knows that no one wants to work out in someone else's sweat. If you use a particular machine, wipe it down when you get off. Carry around a small towel, which is usually provided by the gym itself. Even if you're coming back for another round on that particular machine, go ahead and keep it clean between reps. This is definitely a habit that every member should know and practice regularly.
Dress Appropriately
When you're going to work out at the gym, make sure that you dress appropriately. What does this mean? Make sure that you show up in workout attire. You will need some athletic shorts or pants, a T-shirt or tank top, and some supportive shoes. Try your best not to show up in street clothes or any shoes besides sneakers. It can also be a good idea to layer up. Some gyms prefer the temperature very hot, which means you may want to be able to strip a layer off. Other gyms like to keep the air cool to make the guests comfortable, which means you may need to be able to add an additional layer. Be smart about your clothes, and you’ll look much less like a newbie.
Ask for Help
Don't be afraid to ask for some help. There's absolutely nothing wrong with asking a professional at the gym or even a regular member how to use or operate equipment. There are always people there to show you, and it's much safer if you learn to use it in the proper manner. Good gym members will definitely ask for help when they need it instead of taking unnecessary risks. Avoiding this step may get you in a sticky situation, or it may even be downright dangerous.
Visiting a gym doesn't have to be a scary experience. Use these tips to get yourself ready for your first visit. The more comfortable you are and the more that you know, the easier the visit will be. Get mentally prepared, and you'll be rocking the gym like a pro.
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