Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1541378
KICK OFF YOUR RESOLUTIONS WITH GYM ETIQUETTE 101. 1 RESPECT THE RULES. Every gym has its own policies and regulations. Some won't let you deadlift. Others might say no to chalk or shoeless workouts. Read up on member policies and adhere to the dos and don'ts. 2 MIND YOUR HYGIENE. Remember to keep the gym fresh. Wearing clean workout gear, applying deodorant, and foregoing strong scents can go a long way in creating a pleasant, inviting environment. 3 PRIORITIZE PERSONAL SPACE. Give people plenty of room to complete their routines safely and comfortably. Don't squeeze into tight spaces; those gaps are intentional, helping everyone stay focused and preventing accidents. 4 PUT YOUR PHONE AWAY. While it might be okay to watch a show on your phone during a treadmill session, consider pocketing the device for other workouts. Texting and scrolling can be more than distracting—it can be dangerous. Remain aware when handling heavy equipment and never look down at your phone mid-set. 5 STOP HOGGING EQUIPMENT. Fitness centers fill up fast; odds are, someone is waiting to step in your place as soon as you're done. Only take equipment or hop on a machine when you're ready to use it. Once finished, clean up and make room for the next person. Thirty minutes is enough for a standard cardio or strength exercise, typically covering three to five sets of five to 15 reps. 6 LIMIT NOISE. Being loud isn't only disruptive to your fellow gymgoers, but it's also in poor taste. Use headphones to listen to music or watch TV, take phone calls outside, and keep conversations quiet. Avoid slamming equipment, grunting, yelling, and dropping weights, too—these unnecessary actions can startle others and cause safety hazards. 7 CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF. Be a good steward of the gym and tidy your space after you've wrapped it up. Use wipes to sanitize benches, mats, and buttons. Re-rack weights exactly how you found them. Items like mats, accessories, or towels must also be returned to their rightful places. 8 BE NICE. New to the gym? Ask for help! If you're a veteran, be kind to beginners and offer to lend a hand—you were once in their shoes. When people feel comfortable, they're more likely to succeed in their fitness journeys. Each year, nearly 96 million Americans set health and wellness goals—and gyms feel the impact. About 12% of all gym memberships start in January, bringing a blend of seasoned pros and fresh faces. With the surge in traffic, gym etiquette matters more than ever. Do your part to ensure everyone has a pristine, peaceful, and productive place to get fit by following these simple tips. THE GYM CODE HEALTH & WELLNESS