Tales from the Gym: Etiquette, Locker Room Horror & More

When it comes to etiquette at the gym, which personality fits you?

Are you The Slob, The Hoarder, The Cardio Junkie, The Talker/Time Burglar? 

I am sure you can come up with a few of your own, if not to describe your own self, at the very least describe fellow gym-goers.

What about etiquette at other parts of the gym, such as the training room, the classroom, or the locker room?

For example, do men walk around in the buff? Men, yes. Women, usually not.

How about this one: have you ever asked a staff member for advice when he/she was naked? Well, don't.

Grace DeSimone and Neal Pire are both fitness club experts, and in this segment they feature a "he said, she said" segment that is highly entertaining and will give you some advice on gym do's and don'ts.

They offer some of the best tips you will ever hear about gym etiquette... hopefully you will heed their advice so you and those around you can all enjoy the gym experience. 

Do you see yourself in any of these lists?

Training Room:

Return equipment to proper location.
Wipe down equipment.
Be aware of wait time.
Avoid hoarding.
No spitting.
No snot rockets.
Grunt quietly.
Avoid dropping the weights.

Group  Exercise Classroom:

Avoid crowding by the door.
Stay away from territorial creatures.
Newbies should use the middle of the room.
If you are sensitive to the volume of the music, use ear plugs.
Avoid crowding others; stay an arm's distance away.
Arrive early, especially if you are new.
Get advice from the instructor.

Locker Room:

If you're going to walk around in the buff, be respectful of others
Shave in the shower? You shouldn't if someone is waiting (and be careful what you are leaning up against)
Blow dry your hair in partial state of dress? People do. Blow dry private areas? Please don't.
If you must take a towel, limit to two
NEVER be barefoot in the shower
Use the soap the gym provides? Not if you color your hair.
Remember to ALWAYS lock your locker.

Gym Personalities:

When at all possible, let the staff manage the members; but if you run into these personalities, here are some ways to "deal."
The Slob: "Is this Yours?"
The Hoarder: " Would you mind sharing?"
The Cardio Junkie: find out if there is a wait list or a time limit for equipment.
The Class Junkie: if you are concerned about someone taking class after class, speak to staff.
The Talker/Time Burglar: wear headphones and move your lips like you are singing.
The Stalker/Copycat: take it as a compliment, but if it gets creepy, inform a staff person.